Words by Joey GoughWhen I turned 30, I realised how fast time was beginning to fly by. I intended be riding for as much of my life as possible, but I questioned how long it would be before the adrenaline fuelled riding would start to take more of a back seat. Surely my brain or my body would tell me to slow down at some point? I wasn't going to waste any time, in case I found out sooner than I wished to.
Now, I am about to turn 40 and I would never have guessed it would be a worldwide pandemic that would be first to slow me down! I haven't got anything profound to say about the situation, but it confirmed what I already know. Riding bikes makes me incredibly happy and I miss it when it's gone. Of course, I have still ridden any bikes I can within the restrictions, but like many, I've missed the trips, the friends and the fun. Looking back on the last decade, I feel lucky that I spent all my weekends and holidays riding as much as I could and in so many different places. The good times I had, the things that scared me and even the things that hurt me.
About 15 years ago I was racing 4X World Cups and I remember a discussion around the bar with some of the other British female racers of the time. The question between the group was, what song would you choose for a riding edit of you? Well, this was my answer, so I thought I should stay true to my word! Coincidentally, it was number one in the charts the year I first rode a bike.
It's good to look back, but I'm also looking forward, to the many more years of fun on bikes to come.
Thanks to everyone who has shared the good times and a special thanks to GT Bicycles, Bell Helmets, Chromag, DMR, Fabric, Five Ten and Slicy for their continued support.
Photo: Martin Zielinski
Thanks to my big brother for introducing me to BMX.
What next on the list Fest at 40?????
2) GREAT vid!
3) You Gough, GIRL!!
4)..........................erm, I'll see myself out