SimplyStu Podcast Series

Team EvoTri visits Vision Quest

Mar 8, 2008

It was just like my typical race night. Set the alarm, go to bed, think about the excitement of the next day, try and sleep, fall asleep about 3am, wake about 4, get out of bed before the alarm goes off. You have all done this before. It was the same for me today. I was going to see my team in Chicago. I was going to see the people I E-Mail, and chat with almost every day. It was EvoTri team day at Vision Quest Coaching.

The drive to Chicago was uneventful. I got to the facility around 7am, a good hour before our 8am start. The facility reminded me of a Rocky movie. It had it all. It had the feel of fitness. It had the feel of raw sport. Not sure how to explain it, but the moment I walked in, I wanted to jump on my BMC and go. This place just had that feel that I crave. I brought my bike in and watched some of the riders well into a 3 hour ride. It was a local bike team that was kicking into gear to start the day.

The EvoTri Team started to come in one by one. Chris, Michelle, Tracy and soon Charlie. I liked this guy before I met him, but the moment I met him, I knew the world had picked the right person. He was a certain rock start in the making. The coaches came out and soon Robbie Ventura came out to get us testing. It was Chris, Michelle and Me first up. I made a comment to Robbie that I had been sick all week and that might..... That was as far as I got. Robbie made a comment to me and gave me the "look." It was the look like, "Hey Stu, you see this place? This place does not allow excuses. " He said it in a way that I immediately understood why Vision Quest is the way to go. He said it in a way to motivate. He said it in a way to be ultra positive. He said it in a way that made me want to do better. For the rest of the day I didn't say a thing - remember the Rocky feeling I had.

Anyway, the lactate test was great. Robbie took blood every 4 minutes, and kept the mood upbeat. When Chris, Michelle, and I were hurting, he was right next to you telling you to keep going. What a motivator he is. Some people have it and others do not. Robbie has it. No question about that.

We did a long series of tests that you would not find in most places, but at VQ, they do many test to see your strength, flexibility, and stability. It was eye opening to say the least. I have a lot to work on. It was also a chance to connect with my team. To the person, I love them all. After a grueling hour (ask anyone if you don't believe me), it was my turn in the endless pool. Can I just tell you now that I WANT ONE of those. So much you can look at and correct in the privacy of your home. Chris was right next to me, and we both watched Michelle impress the swim coach. She looks so strong early this year.

After all the tests, it was time for James (Tracy's husband) to take some pictures. Actually, I take pictures, while he IS a photographer. Anyway, you must check out his work on our EvoTri site. I was lucky enough to take about 300 pictures with the help of Lisa (Charlie's wife). I must say that we are really blessed with great (and understanding) spouces on this team!

The end of the day was a great time spent with our team making plans for the next addition of the team.

In closing I want to send out a HUGE "thank you" to the following:

Robbie Ventura: If you don't have coaching already, you should look at VQ. I was so impressed with every aspect of the facilities, coaches, and most importantly the contagious attitude that you just want to be part of.

The coaches and staff at VQ: What can I say, but thanks.

Rachel from CycleOPS: She has been with us since day one. She is such a big part of our team. I just love her!

Lisa and James: Lisa is Charlie's wife, and wow is she great. She just added so much life to the day. James has been a silent, but HUGH part of so much of this team. I can never thank him enough for what he does behind the team.

Tracy, Greg, Chris, Michelle: No words, just THANKS!

Charlie: The moment I met you I knew one thing. This guy IS A PERFECT match for the team! Welcome.