I've come to respect my bike racing peers to the point where I feel lucky to have met them. If it werent for racing mountain bikes I wouldnt have met many of who I consider friends. Its amazing how something as simple as bike racing can bring people together. Often I hear "I'm not a racer", or "I'm not in shape to race" and I cant help but laugh, as if thats why people race bikes. To many, its not about being labeled something, or having a negative body fat... its about the journey, the relationships, and the lifestyle.
Dean Yobbi and I have crossed paths (no pun) on a few different occasions. Exclusively during mountain bike races such as the Goneriding 6hrs of Oleta, and the 6hrs of Santos. Dean does a lot of talking with his bike, with many podium finishes and consistent efforts over the years. He's always been one of those racers I've liked to watch compete because you know he'll be there at the end. Dean started training with a power meter a couple years ago and explained to me "I had my best year when I started training with purpose". Dean is a student of the game, like me, and now he's passing on his knowledge as a USA Cycling Coach.
I feel lucky to have finally met Dean on a more personal level, and respect him for the work he is doing to give back to the sport of cycling. I also value his opinion and insights. Dean has started a blog, and its shaping up to easily fit into my list of daily reads. Check Dean out at dyotraining.blogspot.com and drop him a line, mention OYM sent you.
