Years ago we used to "warm up" before our weekend rides in the park and constantly had to dodge people in the wrong lane, dogs walking their owners on long leashes, skate boarders, roller skaters, and every other recreational park user you can imagine.

It was not that much fun. Any fun we had involved speeds in excess of 15mph and was probably dangerous. I have ridden there only a few times since. I've come to the realization that the park is for kids with training wheels, not racers on training rides. Let the new generation of riders get their start without seeing a bunch of non- professional and often rude racers influencing their riding habits. This goes along with stop sign running and other traffic violations. We have a responsibility, as a group that supports the sport and wants to encourage more participation, to demonstrate to traffic and pedestrians that we are respectful of the law and safety.

Every time a rider, especially in a racing kit, does something to scare, worry, or anger a driver or pedestrian we create one more reason to take away cycling rights and access. The smallest infraction could cause a huge reaction. The reason the police are in the park is because someone, probably many people, complained. We should take this as an indicator of how cyclists are perceived by other park and road users.

I know I've been guilty of my share of anti- productive behavior AND I am taking on the challenge to ride as if the future of cycling privileges we now enjoy depends on me. Join me?

Respectfully, Coach Tom Bruen