Today’s weather was drastically different and I’m glad for my Breakaway rain jacket!
Santa Rosa is a beautiful and welcoming town, and even the torrential (okay, I exaggerate) rain couldn’t keep spectators away. I had some great conversations with locals and visitors from across the country!
The Most Courageous Rider
Before I traveled to the tour last year I knew very little about cycling beyond what I had read and seen on the Tour de France—but one thing I did know, the leader wears a special jersey. In cycling though, there are other “leader jerseys” given out to the fastest sprinter, the best mountain climber, and the best of the younger riders. The Amgen Tour gives out another unique jersey of the day—Most Courageous Rider.
According to the tour website, “Each day, the most courageous rider will earn Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer jersey. It will be awarded to a cyclist who best exemplifies the character of those engaged in the fight against cancer. The jersey will not necessarily be awarded to the fastest or best cyclist of the day, but rather to the rider who best demonstrates courage, sacrifice, inspiration, determination and perseverance.”’ Each day their names are posted outside our Breakaway tent.
Living Healthfully
Leading a healthful lifestyle can be a battle too, a struggle every day, oftentimes not seeing “winning results.” (I struggle everyday on the tour to resist the corn dogs and funnel cakes they are selling not too far away from our booth).
Many times results are slow in coming and victories are not always sweet (especially if you are avoiding baked goods!). Though you may stumble along the way (Did I mention the funnel cakes smell REALLY good?), the thought that in the end you are doing the right thing for your health is a kind of victory – a daily victory – that should be celebrated.
So next time you choose asparagus over French fries, an apple over a cookie, and taking a walk over watching a TV show, give yourself a little cheer and pat on the back. Because winning the daily battle against bad habits helps in winning the war for establishing long-lasting healthful habits. Celebrate each battle victory!
Supporting the Foundation through Breakaway
Interested in supporting Breakaway from Cancer? Text BREAKAWAY to 90999 to donate $10 to the cause!
Images from Santa Rosa (Photos by: Andrew Tao)
May 17, 2010 - Foundation Manager of Public Affairs Katie Lapides stands in the rain next to the Amgen Tour leaderboard.
May 17, 2010 - The pelotan rides past Old Courthouse Square and the Rosenberg Building on their way to the Stage Three finish line.
No Comments