Over forty years ago, at the age of thirteen, I entered my first bike race in Brookdale Park, New Jersey. I was hooked. I was fortunate to race at the top level of the sport in the United States and spent several seasons in Europe at the top amateur level, competing in many of the major stage races on the continent. I continue to serve the cycling community as a past president and board member of the US Bicycling Hall of Fame. I earned my first USCF (United States Cycling Federation) coaching certification in 1977 and currently hold a USA Cycling Level 2 Coaching Certificate. I spent fifteen years coaching youth ice hockey, working with all levels of players, and I hold a USA Hockey Level 4 Certificate (the highest level). I coach the Montclair Bikery Colavita Development Team, passing on knowledge of training and racing to developing junior athletes. I've watched and helped juniors move from beginners to the highest ranks in cycling.