From the time I was 8 years old I knew my life's goal was to help others to improve themselves through health and fitness. I also felt that sports and fitness was going to be a major part of my life. I have followed my life's destiny and played in many sports but achieving my highest honors early on as a runner then martial artist After severely injuring my knees I forced to give up running so I concentrated my efforts in the martial arts. I competed on the national scene through the 70's to mid 90's where upon my final competition was an international championships of which I was a triple crown winner. Soon after the championships I under went double knee surgery. I was told both knees needed replacement but being so young it was opted to do a stop gap procedure that would buy me some time. After surgery the pain was gone at first but I wasn't able to get back to training as the knees were not able to support me if there were any lateral pressure. Also the knee pains would become severe after about 2 weeks.

As the years went by the knees got worse to the point walking became very painful. My health also started to slide downward as my weight climbed upward gaining over 60 pounds. At my worse health wise my blood pressure was over 210/110, waiting for a stroke. I knew at this point it was only a matter of time unless I made some dramatic changes.

I had to get back to training I had tried many different activities and all failed around two weeks or so because of severe knee pains. The only thing I had not tried was my bike.I really didn't think my knees were going to hold up. Two weeks approached and I knew it would be the same as in every other attempt but to my surprise I was able to ride. As time went by my health had improved, my blood pressure was back down to normal the first time in most likely 15 years, I had started to loose weight, I was able to walk and the knee pains had lessened. Everyday for the first two years I would think today maybe my last ride. After the second year I decided it was time to seek out other cyclists to ride with, eventually I did find some different groups. After riding with these different groups I noticed there were many new riders that needed help and a direction. My primal drive to help others kicked in. I and a newly found riding buddy got together to start a cycling club.

I came up with a name and jersey for this club called Rock It Riders. As the club grew I was able to help many new riders become better cyclist and dedicated riders. A small group of these riders started talking about racing and they asked me about it. I was more than happy to coach, train and ride with them. I thought my days of competing were over because of age and all my physical issues, the guys asked if I was going to compete with them at first I didn't think I would be able to but then I thought if I can ride this hard why not. My competitive nature kicked in but in the back of my head was my knee issues. After all this time I still have reservations especially every time my knees would hurt. Last year was my first year of racing and I had a very successful year. I continue to help the new and fellow cyclists through leading rides, coaching riders, newsletter with articles on riding skills, health improvements and etc. Racing is a way to show the riders and the younger generation that even with age we still can make a difference.

To continue my efforts to help as many cyclists as I can, to continue to train and compete I need your help. This year I have set my eyes on the Master's Nationals to be held in Bend, Oregon the first week of September. I cannot make this happen without your help! Helping me get to the nationals will help me reach more people to show just because one is 60 life isn't over.