Okay, so, let me tell you about this whole Ron Silk racing thing I got into. It all started when I stumbled upon some info about ultra-distance cycling, you know, those crazy long races that go on for days. I mean, 200km or more? That’s insane! But it got me thinking, could I do something like that? Not necessarily a race, but just push my limits, see how far I could go.
Now, I wasn’t about to jump into a multi-day race straight away. I’m no professional, and I definitely didn’t want to bite off more than I could chew. So, I started doing some research, trying to figure out how to even begin preparing for something like this. And that’s when I found out about this racer, Ron Silk. Apparently, he’s a big shot in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.
At first, I was like, “What’s NASCAR got to do with cycling?” But then I realized, it’s all about endurance, pushing your limits, and staying focused for long periods. And this Ron Silk guy, he seemed like he knew a thing or two about that. So, I started following his races, just to see what I could learn. It went all the way back to the 2023 season opener at New Smyrna Speedway. I watched every race I could find, trying to pick up on his techniques, his strategies, all that stuff.
One thing that really stuck with me was something I read about training for ultra-endurance events. It said you don’t need to do huge amounts of riding, but you do need to do some long rides and practice short blocks of 2, 3, or 4 days in a row. So, that’s what I did. I started with some longer rides on weekends, then gradually added in some back-to-back rides, just to get my body used to that kind of effort.
After the first five races of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Series, I felt like I had a pretty good grasp on what it takes to compete at that level. So I was like what the heck. I mapped out a route, nothing too crazy, just a good solid ride that would test my endurance. Packed my bags with some snacks, water, the whole nine yards. And off I went.
Let me tell you, it was tough. There were times when I wanted to quit, when my legs were screaming, and my lungs were burning. But I kept thinking about Ron Silk, driving the #85 Stuart’s Automotive Chevrolet, pushing through those long races. And that kept me going.
- I pushed through those tough moments.
- I kept my focus, just like I imagined Ron Silk does during his races.
- And you know what? I made it.
It wasn’t about winning a race or anything like that. It was about proving to myself that I could do it, that I could push my limits and come out stronger on the other side.
The Takeaway
This whole experience taught me a lot about myself, and about what it takes to achieve a goal, no matter how big or small. It’s about preparation, dedication, and most importantly, believing in yourself. And hey, if Ron Silk can do it on the track, why can’t I do it on my bike?
