Photo: Damon Poor
The “Ride With” Program is an opportunity to meet and ride with some of the most interesting people that ride the San Diego Century. Some are real Legends of Cycling, whose exploits on the bike excite everyone who loves the sport. Some are experts who can offer advice on training, nutrition, cycling technique and the history of the sport. And some are the people who have done incredible things in their life and brought that to their cycling. The San Diego Century Bicycle Tour is privileged to host a wonderful group of cyclists.
Damon Poor Profile:
We are very excited to bring you more information about Damon Poor, the featured "Ride With" Athlete for this edition.
Damon is not only a very accomplished endurance cyclist, he is also an individual who brings a nearly unlimited dose of inspiration. Damon is a man who conquered obesity, going on an incredible journey from 350 pounds to a string of endurance cycling accomplishments. His story is a testament to his determination, with lessons for everyone.
In 2000 Damon, at 5'9" and 350 pounds, was faced with high blood pressure, constant back pain and numerous other health risks. Realizing that he had to take action, he underwent weight loss surgery and began exercising. After 11 months he lost enough weight to safely ride a bicycle. And the journey from there took him to a goal of four double centuries in 3 and a half months with a cycling log that included 7,400 miles and 288,000 feet of climbing in a year.
Damon hopes his story inspires others battling weight issues. He knows his life has dramatically changed for the better.
To read more of Damon's story, check out his article with Cyclo-Vets. If you are interested in contacting Damon then leave a comment here or contact Damon directly at dlpoor@cox.net.
San Diego Century Bicycle Tour "Ride With" Athletes
Here are the rest of the current “Ride With” Program members who will be out on the course in May:
Kim Mueller – Kim is an All-American Triathlete, a Registered Dietitian and is armed with a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology/Sports Nutrition. She used her expertise to develop and launch Infinit Nutrition, a company that custom blends functional ingredients to address a variety of performance and health goals. Kim thoroughly enjoys helping others achieve optimal health and peak fitness performance.
To read our feature article on Kim, click here>>.
Darryl MacKenzie - Darryl has been a Licensed USA Cycling Coach since 1997, has 30 Double Centuries completed, and is a leader in the cycling community. He trains 50-100 riders a year through a combination of spinning classes and road rides.
To read our feature article on Darryl, click here>>.
Gordy Shields – Gordy is a national record holder and set the record for fastest 20Km in USA History for….get this, the 90+ category. He just did this in April 2008. Gordy isn’t planning on 100 miles, but he’ll be there, and will be cheering everyone on.
We look forward to building upon the “Ride With” Program for the San Diego Century Bicycle Tour in 2010 – we hope you get as much fun and inspiration out of it as we do.
Leave a comment if you are interested in riding with or contacting the “Ride With” Program members.
Click here on The San Diego Century Bicycle Tour to get more information, register for the ride on May 22, 2010 or purchase the 2010 Jersey!
Ride on!
by Greg Hendrickson
Greg's Blog: WatchMyRace
Photos: Damon Poor
