The Highs and Lows

Cycling is an incredible sport because it gives you so much more than fitness — it gives you freedom, perspective, and a front‑row seat to some of the most beautiful places in the world. Living and training in Europe has reminded me of that every single day. The roads here are stunning, but they’re also very different from what I grew up riding. They’re narrower, more technical, and often shared by two‑way traffic even when it feels like only one car should fit. It’s part of the charm, but it also demands a different level of awareness and respect.

This past month, I learned that lesson the hard way.

While descending the Col de la Madone — one of the iconic alpine descents in the region — I came around a corner at about 70 kph just as the road narrowed from two lanes to one. An oncoming car drifted into the center of the road, leaving me with a split‑second decision. Rather than hit the car head‑on, I chose the rock wall. It wasn’t pretty, and it definitely wasn’t the outcome I wanted, but it was the safer option.

I walked away with no broken bones, just road rash, bruising, and a lot of adrenaline. Unfortunately, my brand‑new frame didn’t survive. Snapped clean in multiple places. I had only ridden it for two days, which honestly made the whole thing sting even more. I’ve never broken a frame before, and seeing it in pieces was a gut punch.

But here’s the thing: cycling gives you moments like this, and it also gives you the perspective to handle them. The sport teaches resilience in ways you don’t fully appreciate until you’re forced to. I’m grateful I walked away. I’m grateful my body is okay. And I’m grateful for the reminder that even when you’re doing everything right, the road can still throw something unexpected at you.

Cycling is beautiful because it’s real. We train on open roads, with real cars, real terrain, and real risks. Knowing the roads, respecting the environment, and staying present matter — but so does accepting that not everything is in your control. What is in your control is how you respond.

For me, that means healing up, rebuilding, and getting back to doing what I love. Europe has challenged me, but it’s also made me a better rider. Excited to continue riding in this incredible area while being more cautious on descents.