Two Things

What Is "Success"?

Another podcast dropped this week and we got to chat with perennial guest, Dave Pryor. He was quoted in a recent article in "Velo" concerning East Coast gravel events.  (Paywalled, but if you work Google you can find a workaround)

In the article the question is asked "Why haven't East Coast gravel promoters hosted something like Unbound, Belgium Waffle Ride Series, or a Mid-South type event?" The author was taking a stance on a definition for success which, in my opinion, is the default definition used by mainstream cycling media. However; it is not the only definition for success. 

You can listen in to the podcast HERE or find it on your favorite podcast platform. 

In the episode, Dave Pryor makes a point about how "Velo" has always been about racing and racing results, so to have a big Pro-level gravel event to report on benefits them. Dave mentioned not all outlets are like this. And, of course, he is right. But what I wanted to make clear is that when you have the majority of online reporting focused on "athletic exceptionalism" then people hear the narrative that this is all that matters, because let's be honest, this is what happens. When you don't get the reporting on the individual accomplishments, stories of adventure, and self-stretching efforts, (individual exceptionalism/spiritual exceptionalism) then this is seen and felt as less than important. Sure, some outlets will post a story in this realm, but it isn't deemed "the thing that moves the needle" financially. This is because the media doesn't trust the readers to find this exciting and worthwhile reading. So, you get the same ol', same ol'. 

And the circle never ends. 

Tom Claver, foreground. (Image by C. David Ashton II)

A Rider Leaves:

Recently I learned that Tom Claver, a local rider here, is moving away to the Twin Cities area. I met Tom via bicycles, of course, and I used to do some work for him from time to time when I was a retail bicycle mechanic. 

Tom isn't one to seek out the spotlight. In fact, he probably won't be comfortable with this being here on the blog. However; when a rider of this caliber leaves the area, I think it is noteworthy.  

I cannot say I know Tom well. I know him well enough to hold casual conversation with him. I typically don't ride with anyone, so Tom and I don't see a lot of each other these days. That said, I see evidence of Tom's rides all the time. 

It is not a rare thing to see tire tracks in the dust, fairly fresh ones, going South, East, and West of Waterloo. 99% of those tracks are evidence of Tom's passing through. He rides thousands of miles, alone as I do, every year. Many of his miles being on gravel. He's tough as nails, but kind, and soft-spoken. Most locals have no idea of his accomplishments on the bikes. 

But I have somewhat of an idea. 

Tom, if you read this, know that some of us noticed you. We cared about how you were doing. And know you'll be missed.  I'll certainly miss seeing your tracks out on the gravel roads. 

Ride on.