Riding 5,000 KM in one year

Well, I did it, I reached my goal of riding 5,000 km in 2013. I didn't originally start with this goal when the year started, but in September I looked at my Strava year-to-date distance and noticed I was at 4,000 km. Could I reach 5,000 km by the end of 2013? I don't really set goals for myself but decided to commit to achieving this target. It's been a really rewarding experience and helped me push myself to ride on days I normally wouldn't.

It's pretty hard to believe I've pedaled this much in one year. The majority of my mountain bike rides tend to be under 15 km, so most of my distance was put on my road bike. I commuted a lot to work (20 km each way) and would routinely add a loop of Stanley Park before heading home. We've also had a very dry fall and early winter, which has allowed me to ride more than I normally would this time of year.

Riding in the Chilcotins

I really love exploring new places on my bike. Some of the highlights from 2013 include six days in Sedona, the Rapha Women's 100, my unofficial Tour de Cortes Island, the Hot on Your Heels Enduro race in Squamish, my second float plane drop in the Chilcotins and exploring the amazing trails in Revelstoke for the first time. But my top achievement for 2013 and the one I'm most proud of was road riding to the very top of Mt. Baker, a total of 110 km and over 1,800 m of climbing.

Top of Mt. Baker with my husband, Dan

I know a lot of cyclists out there hate Strava, but I really love it and attribute meeting this goal because of the website. I found it very motivating to see how many miles I could put on in a week or see how much elevation I climbed on a long ride. Sure, you could do this on your own with any simple bike computer and Excel, but Strava made it easy and fun to share. Seeing my friends ride on miserable days motivated me to suck it up and get out on the trails. It may not be for everyone, but Strava has allowed me to easily track my rides, follow my own progress and that of friends, while motivating me to get out more and yes, feeding my competitive side.

Somewhere near Cornville and Cottonwood in Arizona

It's been an amazing year on my bike. I've explored a lot of new trails and rediscovered old ones. I've really gotten to love road riding and found enjoyment in long, slow rides. I'd like to thank all my awesome riding partners, especially my husband and the Ponies. Can I ride 10,000 km in 2014?! Stay tuned!

Couldn't ask for better friends and riding partners