Guest Blogger: Scott Bentley is a die-hard two-wheel enthusiast, and has raced his mountain bike as far afield as Africa. He is the current Ontario Single Speed Marathon Champion and a volunteer with the Ontario Cycling Association (OCA) and Durham Mountain Biking Association (DMBA). Scott is also co-owner of Joyride 150 Indoor Bike Park and a small media company in Markham. He has twice been nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year.////////////////////////////////////
For me, Victoria Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer here in Ontario. I used the long weekend to make a trip to one of my favourite places to ride, Ganaraska Forest near Peterborough. The event was put on by Substance Projectsand the fastest rider won a cookie. Everyone else won too, but their prizes were more intangible.
This spring season has afforded me the opportunity to build trail, ride a bunch and hang with friends, new and old. But the real benefits are less obvious. One of the highlights of this ride was something both very cool and unexpected. A friend from elementary school showed up for the ride! Afterwards, tired and dusty, we sat under the huge forest canopy at the Ganaraska Centre munching on burgers and salad, catching up on life events. We hadn’t seen each other for over 20 years! We made plans to ride again.
This spring season has afforded me the opportunity to build trail, ride a bunch and hang with friends, new and old. But the real benefits are less obvious. One of the highlights of this ride was something both very cool and unexpected. A friend from elementary school showed up for the ride! Afterwards, tired and dusty, we sat under the huge forest canopy at the Ganaraska Centre munching on burgers and salad, catching up on life events. We hadn’t seen each other for over 20 years! We made plans to ride again.
Looking back on the past few months, I attempted to focus on those intangible benefits afforded me. Ultimately, mountain biking has facilitated previously unquantified health benefits, both mental and physical. It has given me a gift of fitness and fellowship, with friends and mother earth. I’m stronger, healthier and happier. The mountain bike life is
good.
Another great day out-of-doors!
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