A Review: Lessons From My Year of Cycling


Reflecting on the past year, it’s remarkable to consider the numerous challenges and triumphs experienced on two wheels.

I want to take a moment to thank Ann Stow for encouraging me to freely express myself and for ‘forcing’ me to share this review with her by the year's end.

The Past year

The past year has been a remarkable journey, one where I not only challenged my physical limits but also explored the depths of my resilience in the face of trials.

From riding to Cheddar Gorge overnight to conquering Mount Ventoux, right through to recovering from a bike crash and relationship loss, these experiences shaped my year in ways I had never anticipated; guiding my growth both as a cyclist and as a human being.

What follows is my stream of consciousness and adobe letter to the road, I’ve drawn a lot from it, I hope it holds something for you too.

Cheddar Gorge

My journey to Cheddar Gorge was an escapade that tested my endurance and mental fortitude. As the sun set behind me, I navigated the twisting paths, often feeling the weight of fatigue challenging my resolve. The the ride offered me a chance to confront my thoughts and fears as nature surrounded me. The cool night air invigorating as I pedalled through the darkness and the time I had to think.

Overcoming the initial weariness was crucial; it was a reminder that pushing beyond comfort zones often yields the most rewarding experiences.

On that ride, I learned to have risk it all again. Thank you Jason Hayles.

Round the Island

Beyond the ‘Cheddar ride’, a significant highlight was my experience around the Isle of Wight. Completing three laps within 12 hours was more than just a test of physical strength; it pushed my limits of strategy and time management.

Each lap brought its own challenges, from the steep inclines to the sharper descents. At piece with myself, I didn’t find myself battling the elements or my own thoughts, no, even as the fatigue threatened to set in.

In that ride, I learned to harness mental toughness, breaking each lap into manageable segments, focusing on achievable goals rather than the daunting total ahead. This strategy proved invaluable, teaching me that success is often found in patience and persistence.

On that ride, I learned to trust myself again. Thank you Dominique Munday.

Mount Ventoux

Riding Mount Ventoux, famed for its steep slopes and the challenging ‘middle’, became a defining moment of my cycling journey. Completing the ascent in under two hours was a personal milestone and put me in the top 20% of amateur cyclists to ever ride it.

The climb tested not only my physical endurance but also my resolve in the face of knowing I could do it but not knowing whether I would.

Battling against the mountain and maintaining a steady pace, I learned the importance of discipline and preparation. Training for such a climb was not without its difficulties. I faced moments of self-doubt and physical discomfort, but those very moments sculpted my resilience. Each pedal stroke on that fabled mountain was a step toward not just physical fitness but mental empowerment. This put me on the path to my Solstice Sprint Ride.

On that ride, I learned to test myself again. Thank you Joe Staunton.

The Solstice Sprint

Tackling the 1000km Solstice Sprint endurance race was the peak of my year. Crossing the finish line after two days (ride time) felt like a victory not simply for the ride itself, but for everything I had overcome to reach that point.

The race brought forth physical exhaustion and emotional challenges alike. Early on, I felt fabulous and towards the end, I dealt with cramping and fatigue, battling against the urge to stop.

However, determination pushed me to keep moving forward, illustrating that endurance is not just physical but a mental game as well.

The ‘Sprint’ was my first endurance race and I finished 49th out of 150 participants, a year before I hadn’t ridden 100 Miles.

On that ride, I learned to be myself. Thank you Liam O’Keefe.

Time Trial

A few weeks after the ‘sprint’, I rode my fastest ever 10-mile time trial on a gravel bike. Achieving a time of 24 minutes is a feat that required me not on to focus on my training, proper nutrition, and meticulous attention to bike setup, but more importantly it required me to block out the noise and focus solely on being at one with may heart and the road.

As I raced against the clock, I felt the presence of competition, competition with myself and the road and no one else, completing the race in the top third showcased not just my speed but the hours of hard work and refection leading up to it.

I learned that I can focus again.

Recovering

The end of the year has been a slightly different story, but in some ways, my greatest achievement.

Shortly after the Solstice Sprint, a bike crash left me with neck and back injuries that sidelined me for weeks. What initially seemed like a minor incident quickly escalated in severity.

The debilitating pain rendered me unable to train or ride for what felt like an eternity. Thank you to Darren and Abby of the Sports Performance Centre for the massage and chiropractor treatments.

The physical pain wasn’t the hardest part; the emotional toll of the crash was far more challenging. I had worked so hard for the race, and suddenly everything came crashing down.

Adding to the emotional weight was the end of my relationship with my partner Dominique.

The combination of physical recovery and emotional heartache has made this a notably challenging time. I have questioned everything: my strength, my worth, my ability to navigate life's obstacles.

I am still not fully recovered from the crash, and the emotional wounds from the breakup still linger, but everything I have been through this year and in the previous 46 have enabled me to process what my younger self could t have fathomed.

Healing doesn’t happen overnight, and there are still moments of frustration and sadness, but I have realised that it’s a process I must allow myself to experience fully.

It’s a gift I’ve given to my clients but haven’t always been as good at embracing myself.

On top of this, my work with the Disability Business Forum CEO, Diane Lightfoot, meant I posed some challenging questions to myself that have lingered in my mind:

"What if you were like this forever, would that be it?” and “Would you accept this as your limit?”

These questions as well as the loss of Dom, have been pivotal in reshaping my perspective on my recovery and my resilience.

In recovery, I learned to love myself again. Thank you Dominique.

The Comeback

Getting back on the bike was one of the most difficult steps in my recovery. Each ride has felt like a battle against fear, pain, and doubt. Will I be able to ride, will this make it worse again and what if I fall. However, I have held onto the fact that that riding again is crucial for my healing.

Every ride has marked a small step towards rebuilding my strength and confidence, allowing me to push against the limits I had begun to internalise.

And this week, I have ridden again and felt like pain (in my neck) combined with a the freedom that trying gives you.

They say there is no such thing as try, there is and my friend its not about the winning it truly is the trying in which the joy lays.

In the comeback, I learned to live with pain, thank you to myself.

The Challenges

This year has been marked by extraordinary cycling achievements, each presenting unique trials that ultimately led to personal growth and confidence and some monumental lows but; I have been reminded that the road to achievement is often paved with difficulties.

Here are the top five challenges I overcame this year, accompanied by some quotes that encapsulate my journey:

  1. Physical Fatigue: "It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves." – Sir Edmund Hillary. During the long rides, there were moments my body cried out for rest. Learning to push through fatigue helped me understand my capabilities and built resilience.

  2. Mental Barriers: "Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right." – Henry Ford. The toughest battles often occurred in my mind. I learned to combat self-doubt with positive affirmations, reminding myself of my commitment and training.

  3. Adverse Weather Conditions: "The rain is just confetti from the sky." – Anonymous. Cycling through varying weather conditions proved challenging, particularly during the Isle of Wight rides across the year. Embracing the wind and rain taught me to adapt and remain focused, finding joy even in less-than-ideal circumstances.

  4. Equipment Issues: "Success is where preparation and opportunity meet." – Bobby Unruh. Midway through races, I faced unforeseen mechanical troubles. Each breakdown served as a learning moment, emphasizing the importance of thorough bike maintenance and preparation before critical rides.

  5. Nutrition and Hydration: "You can't run a marathon on empty." – Anonymous. Managing nutrition during long rides was a learning curve. I had to overcome the temptation to skip proper fuelling, which often led to crashes in energy. Understanding the relationship between nutrition and performance helped enhance my endurance and recovery.

  6. Loss and Resilience: "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." – Nelson Mandela. Throughout my journey, I encountered significant losses that tested my resolve. Each setback, whether it was a missed opportunity or a defeat, became a poignant lesson in resilience. These experiences underscored the need to embrace challenges as part of growth, motivating me to adapt, regroup, and strive forward with renewed determination.

I didn’t ride the road alone. The Thank You’s

As I reflect on the achievements of the past year, it is vital to acknowledge the support system that made all of this possible.

I couldn’t have reached these milestones without the unwavering encouragement and guidance of several key individuals who played crucial roles in my journey.

First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to my ex, Dominique. As a brilliant rider, she not only inspired me with her dedication but also pushed me to train harder and longer. Her motivation was especially vital during the Solstice Sprint, where she encouraged me to dig deep and give my all. Her presence lent me strength, reminding me that I could achieve more than I thought possible.

Next, Jason Hayles, my bike packing buddy, deserves a mention for his incredible companionship. He listened patiently to my endless questions about gear, nutrition, and training strategies. Having someone to share adventures with made the challenges feel less daunting and more enjoyable, and his insights helped optimise my approach leading up to races.

Joe Staunton, my cycling coach, was instrumental in developing structured training plans that catered to my specific needs. He listened to my often “bonkers” ideas and helped translate them into feasible training goals. His organisation of the ride up Mount Ventoux was a testament to his dedication as a coach, providing me with a strategic advantage that I appreciated immensely.

I must also thank Karl Bevan, my sports psychologist and coaching mentor. His expertise helped me navigate the mental complexities of cycling—from managing pre-race anxiety to developing a strong mental game. The tips and techniques he provided not only aided my journey in cycling but also enhanced my approach to leadership and personal growth.

Additionally, I am grateful to Adrian, Darren, Andy and Anthony for joining me on fun rides. Their camaraderie and shared laughter made training more enjoyable, reminding me that while the achievements are significant, the joy of cycling with friends is equally important. Their company turned tough workouts into memorable experiences.

Lastly, I owe a great deal to my dad, who instilled in me a love for cycling from a young age. His dedication and passion for the sport formed the foundation for my journey. The determination he demonstrated has been a guiding force in my life, teaching me the importance of persistence and hard work.

This year would not have been possible without the support of these remarkable individuals. They each contributed uniquely, helping me cultivate the resilience and motivation necessary to push my limits.

Looking Forward

As I look forward to future challenges, I carry their lessons and encouragement with me, reminding me that cycling is not just a personal journey but also one that thrives on collaboration, support, and shared passion.

Here's how this will influence my journey moving forward:

  1. Increased Accountability: Riding with others creates a sense of commitment. When I know I’m joining a group that pushes the pace, I’m less likely to skip a workout or cut it short. This accountability helps cultivate discipline and ensures consistent effort toward my goals.

  2. Enhanced Skill Development: Partnering with more experienced riders allows me to learn new techniques and strategies on the bike. Observing their form, pacing, and tactical decisions during rides presents valuable learning opportunities. I'll take initiatives to join rides with knowledgeable cyclists and participate in group training sessions to absorb their expertise.

  3. Boosted Motivation: Engaging with cyclists who are passionate about their training and performance serves as a driving force. Their enthusiasm can be contagious, igniting my own motivation and determination. I plan to seek out groups or clubs that foster a supportive yet challenging environment, where the energy motivates me to strive for new heights.

  4. Diverse Perspectives: Riding with a range of cyclists exposes me to different training philosophies and approaches to cycling. This diversity broadens my understanding of the sport and helps me cultivate a more adaptable mindset. Participating in varying group rides will encourage me to explore new routes and techniques, enriching my overall cycling experience.

  5. Healthy Competition: Friendly competition can be a powerful motivator. Sharing the road with cyclists of diverse skill levels allows me to test my limits, strive for personal bests, and embrace the thrill of competition. Setting up and joining local races or organised events can enhance my performance through healthy rivalry.

  6. Building Lifelong Connections: Connecting with fellow cyclists fosters a sense of community and friendship. These relationships offer support, encouragement, and camaraderie on and off the bike, helping to make every ride more enjoyable. I look forward to cultivating these connections and creating memories through shared adventures.

  7. Increased Enjoyment: Ultimately, riding with others who challenge and stretch me reinforces the joy of cycling. The shared experiences, laughter, and camaraderie make each ride a memorable event. By prioritising rides with positive, engaging individuals, I hope to create a cycling journey that is as fulfilling socially as it is individually.

  8. Strengthened Resolve: Each loss I experience on, and off, the bike —ultimately fuels my growth as a cyclist and a human being. These moments of defeat teach me valuable lessons about perseverance and determination, pushing me to dig deeper and push through my limits. As I learn to navigate the tough patches, I emerge a more resilient cyclist, willing to “sit with’ every triumph and ‘loss’ that follows.

Incorporating these principles of riding with people who stretch me into my goals will enhance my cycling journey and provide valuable insights that ripple into my coaching and leadership pursuits. Just as in cycling, surrounding myself with those who challenge and uplift me can foster growth and lead to greater achievements in all aspects of life.

The Big Lesson…

Just a few years ago, I found myself recovering from my second breakdown, a moment that felt like a significant setback in my cycling journey. Doubt and frustration clouded my mind as I wondered whether I would ever fully regain my strength and confidence on the bike. Cycling has always been a passion of mine, one which I only returned to 2 years ago, after an absence of 20 years.

This past year has been transformative, filled with valuable lessons that have deepened my connection to the sport. The Solstice Sprint ride, in particular, stands out as a testament to my journey of recovery and resilience. As I tackled the challenges of the ride, I was reminded of how each experience—both joyful and difficult—has shaped my growth as a cyclist. Crossing that finish line brought a sense of accomplishment that was not just about the ride itself but rather a celebration of my perseverance and progress.

Endurance is forged in the fires of both victories and defeats, shaping us into stronger, more resilient cyclists. The more you do something, the more you realise it’s not about winning, but about the journey and how you ride it.

It is through embracing each moment, whether a thrilling win or a tough loss, that we cultivate our endurance and passion for life as we do cycling.

Reflecting on my journey, I often remind myself of my own words: "I ain't fixed, but neither am I broken." This mantra serves as a powerful reminder that we are all a work in progress, continually learning and evolving, ready to embrace whatever comes next with an open heart and a determined spirit.

This journey, rich with lessons and experiences, continuously striving to improve and grow, mile after mile, adds depth to our experience in life.

In my book, experience brings wisdom and a life lived in which I can empower others to find their wisdom, is one I desire.

Stefan

Some questions for you

  1. Reflective: How have your personal challenges and triumphs over the past year shaped your perspective on resilience, both in work and in your everyday life?

  2. Considered: In what ways do you think the lessons learned from overcoming physical and emotional obstacles can be applied to other areas of your life or pursuits?

  3. Action-Oriented: What immediate steps will you take to embrace challenges in your own journey, and how can you foster a support system that encourages your growth and perseverance?

Get in touch

  1. Get in touch - If any of this topic resonated with you and you have something you’d like to share with me or if you’d like to discuss working with me on this topic - stefan@stefanpowell.co.uk works really well for me.

  2. Connect with me on linked in and read my long form posts on the rotating topics of Work, Rest. Play, Sustenance and Love every Thursday

  3. Sign up to my newsletter ‘Be The Waves” here - which collates each weeks long form post on a monthly basis and you’ll get to read it later in the month

  4. I’ll continue this in 4 to 5 Thursdays time when I continue the topic of ‘Rest” in my Thursday Journal.

  5. Book an inquisitive session with me to find out more about what I do and how I do it or run a challenge or thought you have passed me.

For now; thank you

I am…

An executive coach who specialises in helping good people lead great things.Good people care about others, our planet and beauty. Great things are changes for the betterment of society and all that lives within an around it.
It sounds big and fun - it is.

I'm also an endurance racing cyclist and a go. getter.

You can read more about me and what I do; how I work here

#executivecoaching #Leadership #purpose

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