I think racing and riding are two different elements of cycling. You either want to or not depending on what you want to get out of it.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
If you think about racing too much you may just lose it a little bit.
Riding a race bike is an art - a thing that you do because you feel something inside.
Cycling can be lonely, but in a good way. It gives you a moment to breathe and think, and get away from what you're working on.
You train all year for the physical aspect of cycling, but you can't plan for what comes next. You're still the same person. External perceptions might change, but inside, you're the same.
As a kid growing up - I can see now - it didn't matter what I did, as long as it was something I could be really good at. Cycling just happened to be the opportunity that came along.
I've had so many experiences in cycling, but in some ways I have nothing left to prove. I have achieved more than I could have dreamed of, I've raced a lot longer than I thought I would. I know I can still be better, but I just don't know if I love it enough any more.
I mean, for me, the reason I ride my bike and race is because I love doing it, not because I'm seeking recognition for it.
I enjoy racing because I want to do it. No one's forcing me.
When you're riding, only the race in which you're riding is important.
Cycling is based so much on form, on aesthetics, on class - the way you carry yourself on the bike, the sort of technique you have.