I could think of no better way to see London for the first time than riding a state-of-the -art road bike on the closed-to-cars streets past some of the world’s most recognized landmarks. Actually, I could think of a better way, running on foot.

I am not a cyclist so when I learned that my role at the Ride London event was to ride forty-six miles with a bunch of athletes and journalists while spouting off nutrition information, I was a little nervous.

The curly handle bars, pointed seat, and narrow tires on paved streets with pot holes and who knows what else are discomforts and fears that have turned me away from road cycling towards other athletic pursuits.  Those things aside, this actually sounded like an opportunity of a lifetime, and no place for irrational fears. So I saddled up for a different kind of an adventure. The ride was everything you could imagine cycling through and around London without worries of cars to be, complete with a finish in front of Buckingham Palace.

What struck me most is the thousands of people who also showed up to cheer, ride, and celebrate despite real fears about would could happen. London has been terrorized by a few but, the masses prevail despite fears by still taking part in the joys and challenges life presents. Happy riding.

P.S. Ignore the amateur hour off-kilter helmet #hownottowearyourhelmet