Project 365 – Day 89

Cycling and hiking are two of my favorite workouts of choice, so I was excited to come across this cycling group today.  This image is very deceiving.  Though not apparent, these gents were clipping along around 18-20 mph.  Capturing critical focus and freezing motion was not easy in back-lit conditions.  I only had 2 opportunities to catch a good shot because of traffic and limited places to pull my car off the road.

The last rider in the group (not seen here) is one of the designated group leaders.  He brings up the rear and ensures nobody is left behind.  It was with him that I experienced a situation I’ve never come across in my many years of photography.  He stopped (unusual in itself for a cyclist), and asked what I was doing.  When I told him I was photographing for my own pleasure, he continued to question “why” with a real attitude.  Being a cyclist myself, I can understand the strange nature of someone stopping a couple of times to photograph the group.  But it’s beyond me why he was intent on not taking my explanation at face value, and he even went so far as to photograph my license plate.  What?  Are you kidding?  It ticked me off.  The more I think about it, I’m not completely sure why.  I’m not easily angered by such nonsense.  Maybe it was because I was on edge already from a very tough day.  Maybe I felt he was questioning my trust or honesty.  Or maybe it was just the condescending manner in which he approached and continued to press me.

Whatever the case, it was a reminder to “ride on”.  Some days bring tougher rides than others.  Lots of hills.  Headwinds.  Fatigue from prior days.  Bike problems.  Heavy humidity.  But each and every one of these will make you stronger if you keep them in proper perspective and push through.

Cyclists

Fuji X-T1, 56mm f/1.2, 1/500 sec @ f/5.6, ISO400

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