Chair’s Chatter

A Thought for the Ride

I hope you’re all enjoying your summer riding! It’s been a busy season for LAM — with our summer BBQ in Suffolk, an Observer training day at Lydden Hill, changes for new joiners and hopefully plenty of good rides for everyone.

I recently read something that got me reflecting on life and riding so thought I’d dare share a brief thought with you.  Re-worded and shortened albeit maybe not as well written.

Like many of you, I’ve always loved riding; the freedom, the adventure, the sense of being alive and unhindered.  Over the years I've strived to improve, not just as a rider, but as a person. It’s helped me become more patient, considerate, and thoughtful, essentially, to treat others as I’d like to be treated — on and off the bike.

If we live by certain values in everyday life, shouldn't we ride by them too?  For me, riding has become a form of mindfulness, I used to think that was a strange term until I realised, I’ve been doing it all my life, although not consciously. Riding shuts out the white noise, brings focus, and gives a deep sense of satisfaction and calm, aiming to ride with skill and leaving as light a footprint as possible on the world around me.

Yes, riding is a thrill. But it can also be virtuous. And I believe that when we ride well, with purpose and integrity, it reflects in how we live off the bike too.

So, I leave you with this: what helps you be the best version of yourself — in life and on two wheels?

Norton Hawes

I knew the day was coming but Norton has finally decided to retire from Observing once and for all.  An end of an era, Norton is one of our longest standing Observers with 16 years under his belt and is a very well respected, valued member of the team, with a very keen eye and sense of humour, so will be sorely missed by the gang. You know you will always be welcome on full member and social rides; the offer is always there Norton and don’t be a stranger.

With thanks and all the best,

Steve and the Observer team