For the past couple of weeks, I have been riding up Twin Peaks as part of my AIDS/LifeCycle training.  It was Lynn’s idea, she lead the way my first couple of rides up (kicking my ass, of course, cause she’s so good!)  I’ve gone alone the last two times and I’m beginning to really like it.  While on the Tiburon ride I came up with a fundraising strategy and tweeted it.

“Just realized, a $60 sponsor for every ride up to Twin Peaks for @AidsLifeCycle would meet my fundrasing minimum. Takers?”

Theresa Ikard replied, “Take a picture of yourself with view in background at top of Twin Peaks for every sponsor & you know I’ll be the first to pay!”

I took her up on it and prepared to ride up Twin Peaks for her sponsorship this morning.  Before I left my apartment, I made a little sign that said “Thanks Theresa!” on it to include in the picture.  I even practiced taking a self portrait with the sign using my iPhone (the design iPhone sux for self portraits).  I almost left without a spare tube or a pump but decided to run back in and grab a 700cc tube and a pump at the last minute.

I’ve been trying to follow the same route that Lynn lead me on the first time.  I’m unsure of the best decent but I’ve missed a turn down Burnett, recommended by Lynn, every time.  Maybe I’ll try to hit it next time.

Half way up Twin Peaks on Portola, I got a flat in my front 26″ wheel, even though I read somewhere online that the chances of getting a flat in your front wheel are way less then getting a flat in the back.  Unfortunately, I didn’t have a 26″ tube w/ me or a patch kit.  I decided to fold up the 700cc and keep going, motivated to fulfill the ride and terms of the sponsorship.

While fixing my flat, a passing bicyclist said “you should just walk your bike to a store to get it fixed.”  I said I was fine but really, I was nervous.  After pumping up the fixed flat, I yanked the valve out of the pump and broke it!  Part of it just came right off (it’s still in the pump). Good thing the air stayed in.  I hopped on my bike, made it to the top and took a picture for Theresa.  I ended up at work safely and on time!  This ride is getting easier every time.

Would any one else like to be a $60 sponsor for my ride up Twin Peaks to support the AIDS/LifeCycle? 33 more rides up Twin Peaks to go.