Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Riding into the sunset...

I hadn't any idea that life would change so quickly... After wrenching bikes at CHB since I transferred over from sales in late April, I find myself moving on towards my dream of living mobile in my RV and coaching triathletes to their race goals.

I got into the USAT certification class for level 1 coaches in Seattle at the beginning of October. I just need to get my CPR re-cert and a plane ticket. The USAT certification isn't absolutely necessary to coach, but it helps with credibility for someone new to the game. The most valuable training I will receive will be from apprenticing other coaches, including my own.

My personal coach, who has successfully gotten me across the line at two Ironmans and countless shorter races, has agreed to assist me in getting my personal practice set up. In the meantime, I have managed to pull together some employment opportunities that will afford me the chance to use and expand both my triathlon expertise and my bicycle knowledge!

I have to take a moment to express my gratitude to CHB for the opportunities they gave me to grow here. Bernie and Ben were excellent teachers in the world of bicycle mechanics. My abilities and knowledge increased significantly under their tutelage. Todd and Toast were generous with their tips and tricks for troublesome builds and repairs. These have proven valuable many times!

Denise and the sales staff have been teriffic co-workers as well. I will make sure that I stop in to say hello whenever I am in SE.... I mean the shop is just a short ride from Haines Point, where I go to get fast on the bike, so I have no excuse to stay away.

So here's to the next step towards living out a dream!