Like most kids growing up in the 50’s, I had a bike; actually a succession of them. I biked everywhere, all the time. Then I became 16 and got a driver’s license. The bikes were dropped. It was after med school, in training in North Carolina, that I walked past a bike shop, recalled my enjoyment and bought a road bike. I enjoyed it, but time was always a problem. I kept the bike and took it with me as I moved, but it was neglected. During active duty in the Navy in Southern California and Washington, DC my passion was sailing and sailboat racing as well as running. I continued the running during my Active Reserves and my career in academic medicine; it was more time friendly. I came to Illinois in 1994 and began to ride again. I purchased a hybrid and then ultimately upgraded my old road bike to a new one. The old interest grew and with more time in the saddle it grew into a passion, which only increased with my retirements from the Navy (2006), SIU (2012) and fully from practice in 2017.
I joined the club in 2010 and became Membership Director in 2015. I have a passion for education and encouragement, especially of new or younger riders. I have taken the League Safe Cycling Course and the Youth Instructor Course. I have participated in multiple events doing trainings, helmet fittings, rodeos and demonstrations. I regularly lead club rides and work support for the Century.
In 2015 I joined the Springfield Bicycle Advisory Council and served as chair from 2019-2021. I function as the Legislative Liaison for the club board and help to coordinate projects of mutual interest. I am looking forward to Springfield attaining Silver level Bicycle Friendly Community status in 2022 and for our club to grow in numbers and dynamic commitment.