Jack the Cyclist

I’d like to tell you about my friend Jack….he’s a cyclist.  Well actually he’s a whole lot more, and I’ll get into that in a second.  Jack’s last name is Ofalltrades….maybe you’ve heard of him.

Jack is not only a great cyclist, but he’s become good at so many other things that has come with his passion for the sport.

Navigator – Jack often finds himself out on new roads or in new Countries he’s never ridden before.  He has adapted his navigation skills enabling him to rip down highways, streets, backroads, and gaps….all the while setting a course that will take him out and back again.

Surveyor – The surveying role is a big one.  When Jack finds himself cruising along at speeds up to 50+ kms per hour, he’s learnt that he has to constantly survey the road in front of him for holes, glass, animals, cars, and so many other things that could cause him problems.  Misjudging one time can mean a flat tire, or a whole lot worse.

Mechanic – Even if Jack is surveying successfully, there are times when he still gets a flat.  He has learned to fix them quite quickly…..the first time it happened he was miles from home and had no other choice but to learn.  On top of that, he has also begun doing other small repairs to his bike as well.

Athlete – Without even trying, Jack has become an athlete.  He never really considered himself one before, but through his dedication and perseverance he is reaping the benefits and now definitely feels like an athlete.  He pushes himself to be stronger and faster all the time.

Advocate – Jack loves cycling and he wants the whole world to know it.  He also wants to do his part in promoting cycling, and to show others the benefits that can come from it.

Environmentalist – As Jack began getting more and more involved with cycling, he started seeing the world a little differently.  He sees his neighbors driving down the street to the store and wonders why everyone doesn’t ride a bike.  The environmental benefits that the bike provides has made it his ideal choice for transportation.

Time Management Professional – Every so often, Jack is out for a ride and needs to get back home at a specific point in time.  His time management skills have greatly improved and he is easily able to calculate his ride so that he gets back in time, but still achieves the workout he’s looking for.

If you haven’t already guessed, a piece of Jack is found within all of us.  Being a cyclist goes hand in hand with being a Jack of all Trades.

Cycling is definitely not the only sport, or activity that requires this sort of multi-tasking, but there is no doubt it’s a requirement for the sport.  It takes focus, commitment, and constant evaluation in order to successfully take part in it.  Just like in life, if you take these things into consideration and apply them to what you do….you’ll receive reward, enjoyment, satisfaction, and success.  Go get it, Jack.

Photo c/o standard.net.au