Rob Houlihan racing at Center Trails?

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I had no idea what I was getting into when Sam Lopez and I went to the Capital Striders board last spring and said "let's host a duathlon together"... But, now that it's done, I'm overjoyed with the outcome. The positive reaction from everyone that showed up and the money we raised for Center Trails far exceeded my expectations.

People kept thanking me for putting on the race, but I was just one of so many people who made it possible... First and foremost Dave Mable and Brian Palmer, who had passion for the idea and plenty of experience hosting races; they deserve most of the credit. Second, the board and membership of CITA and Striders, who just sort of "appeared" on race day and plugged in as needed to accomodate the much-larger-than-I-expected turnout. Third, Donny Quixote, who was a resource during planning and helped keep things jumping on race day. Fourth, Richard Brown with the City of Des Moines, who has been supportive of our efforts to create sustainable singletrack in Greenwood and Ashworth Parks. Fifth, Rasmussen bike shop, Oakley, Baratta's and others who donated prizes. Sixth, my patient and supportive wife for allowing me to "follow my folly." And, finally, all of the racers and spectators who turned out in droves on a beautiful day...

It was one of the most startling examples of "community" I've experienced.

And then there's Rob Houlihan -- a guy from Cedar Falls that I used to ride with in college. Incidently, I was riding his old Trek 8700 (that I bought from him used in 1995 and have since converted to a singlespeed) around on race day. Somehow, seeing Rob on Sunday brought my involvement with trails into focus -- a 12-year love affair with dirt that just gets stronger every year.

I'm stoked with what this event has already done and can do for Center Trails and CITA and Striders. And, yes, I'm ready to do it again next year.