Since Laura suggested I start a blog some time ago I've been planning on doing it but now I'm doing it. The first order of business is to thank Kevin for letting me know I could rent a race bike at Loudon. My plan at this time is to get my license October third as a 60th birthday present but that's not set in stone. It going to take some time before my dreams of a sponsored ride can even be spoken out loud. One of our students Valerie Thompson has been helping me with my confidence and courage regarding sponsorship mainly just by doing what she does in racing and with her sponsors. I realized I'm going to have to legitimize my riding with accomplishment that can be measured. I was able to drum up some sponsorship when I raced bicycles out in Colorado but that was barely enough to eek by and that was a long long time ago. When I think back about it though it was a very cool and interesting time in my life. Pretty much the way it is right now except that its better now. Who would have thought getting old could be cool? When I realized Keith was ten years older than me and still on his bike I was absolutely inspired. I'm off to a good start. Thank you,