- Name: John Thompson
- Age: 37
- Height: 6' 3"
- Weight: 185
- Hometown: Hagerman, ID
- Current Residence: Meridian, ID
- Marital Status: Married with children
- Started Mountain Biking: June 2010
- Employment: IT Systems Administrator
- Hobbies: Baskteball, Running, Camping, Cooking
- Favorite Music: Matchbox 20, P!nk, Nickelback, Maroon 5, Train, Green River Ordinance, Muse
- Favorite Restaurant: Cafe Rio, SmashBurger, Amigos, Chili's, In-N-Out Burger, Cheesecake Factory
- Favorite Movie: The Count of Monte Cristo
- Favorite TV Show: Lost, The Office
How I Got My Start Mountain Biking
On June 23rd I hit the dirt trails for the first time, my good friend Lahcen leading the way. After a mile or so, I remember him pulling to the side and motioning for me to take the lead. I nervously obliged and got my first glimpse of the wide-open trail. After 3 miles we took a brief pause near a small wooden bridge to catch our breath and take a much needed drink. Thinking back on it now, it seems like only yesterday.
In the weeks and months that followed, I spent hours in the saddle. Most of the time I was accompanied by Lahcen, though others would occasionally join us. It was through casual conversations on the trail and at work that I came to know the history of the bike I rode. I was told it had once belonged to a man by the name of Jeff Good, who had passed away in April of 2009 after a battle with ALS. As I learned more about Jeff, an interesting thing happened. I found myself becoming less and less critical of the lowly basement dweller of a bike I'd purchased. In fact, you might say I became quite proud to be the owner of it due to the connection I began to feel with a man I'd never met.
I finished 2010 with 65,500 ft. elevation gain and a severe case of mountain bike fever! That fever burns still as I begin the 2011 bike season.
In the weeks and months that followed, I spent hours in the saddle. Most of the time I was accompanied by Lahcen, though others would occasionally join us. It was through casual conversations on the trail and at work that I came to know the history of the bike I rode. I was told it had once belonged to a man by the name of Jeff Good, who had passed away in April of 2009 after a battle with ALS. As I learned more about Jeff, an interesting thing happened. I found myself becoming less and less critical of the lowly basement dweller of a bike I'd purchased. In fact, you might say I became quite proud to be the owner of it due to the connection I began to feel with a man I'd never met.
I finished 2010 with 65,500 ft. elevation gain and a severe case of mountain bike fever! That fever burns still as I begin the 2011 bike season.
My 2011 Dedication
I've decided to dedicate this year's rides in large part to the memory of Jeff Good. May each of us in our own passing be as highly revered. You can learn more about Jeff here.
I would be remiss if I didn't include in my dedication a few others who have been an inspiration to me in my first year of riding:
I would be remiss if I didn't include in my dedication a few others who have been an inspiration to me in my first year of riding:
Lahcen Airir
First, my dear friend Lahcen Airir for introducing me to the joy of mountain biking and showing me how to catch some sweet air! Yes, there's an inside joke in there. Lahcen, I won't soon forget our morning ride up Sidewinder where we stopped to share a mango and talk about life. Best of luck in Denver, my friend. You were missed the moment you left.
Mike Ferry
For selling me the $100 basement dweller of a bike I've come to love. Mike, your work ethic and humility is unmatched. I get tired just watching you! Oh, and you weren't lying when you said, "The tear in the saddle makes it more aerodynamic!"
Rick Gerrard
For his love of the climb that inspired my elevation-based goal. Rick, I hope to some day have the same passion, dedication, and drive you have. I hope you keep on climbing, but please, try not to make it look so effortless!
Keith Latimer
For being the ultimate fountain of bike knowledge. Keith keeps me in the loop on all the latest goings on in the bike world and helps with any questions I have regarding my own bike. Keith, thanks for being willing to sacrifice your time, talent, and effort to help a newbie like me get moving in the right direction.
