Riding my bicycle alone is a daunting idea, especially considering my bike’s history of frequent flat tires. I get freaked out just thinking about it — but if triathlon training has taught me anything, I know I can push through my fear and come out ahead. One of my worst traits is I am scared of pretty much everything; one of my better ones is I no longer allow my fear to stop me.
And so I ride.
The Pinellas Trail stretches nearly 40 miles from north Tarpon Springs to south St. Pete. I don’t have a specific distance in mind, but figure I’ll at least try to get several miles in. I slather on SPF 55 and pack a couple of water bottles, along with an energy gel just in case my ride goes longer than planned. Florida law prevents the use of headphones while riding a bike, but I scored one of the best finds of my life on a recent trip to Target: A fanny pack with speakers. Fanny packs are kind of like Crocs in that they’re hideous and absurd but too convenient to not try out; I knew immediately upon seeing it that it had to be mine.
I turn on some tunes, hop on my bike and prepare to take on the trail. It takes me a couple of miles to find my rhythm, but once I’m there I’m good. I crank up the music and pick up my pace. Despite the heat of the blazing sun (there’s little shade on the trail), I am motivated to continue my ride even after I get several miles in. I ride through parts of Pinellas I’ve seen a million times — Tyrone Mall, restaurants and running stores — and parts I didn’t even know existed: There are beautiful bayous and campsites right next to the trail. I see other riders and runners every few miles or so, but for the most part have the trail to myself.
At mile 10 a certain calm washes over me. There’s something special about cycling; I move fast enough to carry myself to a different city, yet slow enough to absorb my surroundings and appreciate the beauty of Florida. I am grateful for the birds, the water, the peace.
I feel like I could go on forever as I ride the high of endorphins, sweat and salty air, but I know I need to turn around soon. The sun is getting stronger as afternoon approaches, and I want to end my ride while still feeling strong. I pause for a swig of water and down my energy gel before I turn back and head towards home. I come across a broken bike pedal in the middle of the trail and pick it up, thankful to have not experienced any malfunctions of my own.
The next hour passes quickly, a good thing considering my hunger and growing fatigue. When I pull onto my street and coast towards home, I am absolutely filthy and covered in dirt, sweat and smeared sunscreen. My fanny pack stereo has held up impressively and so has my attitude. I cruise to a stop and check my watch: 25 miles. Another first.
Riding the Pinellas Trail is a really cool experience and I vow to return for another ride soon. I know with time and training, I will continue to grow more comfortable on my bike. I know one day I won’t be so nervous about riding alone. And I know in the meantime, I will embrace pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. After all, that’s where the magic happens.
