Into the Fray

1. fray²/frā/

noun a situation of intense activity, typically one incorporating an element of aggression or competition.

Every time the mountain bike has come out of the garage this summer, it’s been an adventure – new trails found; a battle with mosquitoes and soft sand; searching for the trail head; pedaling more miles than thought possible; enjoying views of blue water and majestic oak; hurting in places one would rather not hurt.

None of the adventures, though, compare in intensity to the evening this photo was taken. Natasha and I left in sun, enjoying the warm weather and wooded trail to Arrowhead Park. Unfortunately, the stormy skies appeared when we were furthest from home. It looked ugly, the temperature dropped about 15 degrees and the wind was on the verge of wickedness.

Time to burn rubber.

Fortunately, we made it home without significant drenching, a lightning strike, or a wind-blown trip to Kansas. In the last stretch toward home, I picked up speed, put my head down and let the bike fly (as much as my legs would let it fly). First one home! Eat my dust spray Natasha!

Natasha tells me I’m a bit competitive.

Really? I was simply trying to stay dry…