The First Festive 500, With Feeling

First Rapha Festive 500 in the books (that's cycling 500 km/311 miles between Christmas Eve and New Years Eve, for reference I usually ride 160 miles/week so yeah a bit nuts especially winter in Seattle!). I've never ever ever had interest in a challenge like this since I deal with enough health b.s. and making it out the door is sometimes a challenge itself.

But a month ago our coworker took his own life and I wanted to ride for Greg and everyone who suffers on their own in silence. I never thought my body would be able complete this, but I often thought of Greg when I was cold, soaking wet, miserable, or barely turning the pedals over...yet remarkably I got stronger each day and finished feeling accomplished and grateful for my body not freaking out on me. Maybe recovery is overrated? haha

With this challenge completed I'm making a donation to the University of Washington's Forefront suicide prevention organization (http://www.intheforefront.org/), which provides education and support for professionals and survivors of suicide. This is for you all who are loved so much! Happy New Year!