This past month has felt like a turning point for me. I’ve always pushed myself to try new things—even when it’s uncomfortable—but mountain biking has opened up something entirely new: freedom, focus, and a whole new kind of challenge.
I’ve officially started training for the Lake Tahoe 12-Mile Cross Country Race, organized by @bigblueadventure. It kicks off at the Highlands Community Center in Tahoe City on Saturday, June 21, 2025, and I can’t lie—just typing that makes it feel even more real.
Race Prep & Practice Days
This week, I got out to Jack’s Valley to put in some practice miles. It’s rocky, winding, and tough in all the right ways. Mountain biking takes a different kind of concentration and coordination—and yeah, it’s hard—but every ride makes me stronger, mentally and physically.
I’ve been getting in miles wherever I can. The other day, I biked to the DMV, hit the gym, rode back home, and then drove to Reno for a doctor’s appointment. That’s what my “off” days look like right now. Recovery? We’ll deal with that later.
The Gear That Keeps Me Going
My ride is a Raleigh M-400, a solid mid-90s XC bike with a lightweight aluminum frame that’s surprisingly responsive on trails. It’s got a Shimano STX-RC 3×8 drivetrain that gives me plenty of range to climb and cruise.
For gear, I’ve been rocking my Giant helmet with Oakley goggles—because safety and style can go hand in hand. Every piece of equipment matters when you’re pushing yourself over 12 miles of dirt, hills, and unpredictable terrain.
Gratitude & Grit
To everyone who’s been watching my videos and cheering me on—thank you. Seriously. Knowing that people are following this journey makes it easier to push past the hard parts. Whether I’m training, racing, or just sharing my thoughts, I’m doing it to show that having a disability doesn’t mean giving up on life—it means finding a different way to live it fully.
I’ll be sharing more as race day gets closer. But for now, I’m staying focused on training, staying consistent, and reminding myself why I started: to prove to myself and others that there are no limits—only new terrain to explore.
– David
