“63 Year-Old Cyclist Goes The Distance In Century”
Tom Jones had been cycling all year, gaining strength and skills. He had extended his range and felt good about riding, and confident about himself. Then on the last day of summer, the Wheaton Business owner put it all together and rode 100 miles, in the North Shore Century XV from
As the proprietor of Midwest Cyclery in Downtown Wheaton, he spends a lot of his time around cycles. It was not until last winter, when he turned 63 years old, that he decided to begin training for a century ride.
Jones spent January and February taking spinning classes at the BR Ryall YMCA in
However he did not let the pain stop him. In May he participated in the Greater Wheaton Cycle Classic, an event his son Doug helped create.
‘I rode the 30 mile route and could have done more’, Jones said. “I was surprised in the difference I noted in myself and my endurance in such a short period of time’.
Jones continued to increase his distance events from 50 miles in July to 72 miles in August, all the while training every chance he got for the 100 miler.
‘My family and my customers at the bicycle shop were a great encouragement to me, providing tips and support throughout the process’ he said,. ‘When Sept. 19 came, I knew I was ready’.
He began the journey alone, watching the sun come up over the lake in
‘They videotaped me doing one lap the Veledrome, the country’s oldest continuously operated racetrack, before heading back to Evanston’, he said. ‘I know I smiled the whole time I was riding those last 20 miles.’
It was during the last 20 miles that the adrenaline really kicked in. At 3:40 p.m. Jones returned to the starting point to be greeted with ‘Way to go Grandpa” signs and the cheers of people who did not even know him.
‘My daughter-in-law Robin, and my wife Helen, and four of my grandchildren were there to greet me,’ he said} 'They had everybody in the crowd excited about my return. I really felt wonderful in all respects.’
Jones was still glowing in the days after the event. “it’s such a terrific feeling to get on my bike and ride from St. Charles to Sycamore and back and know I can do it’ hi said. “I would encourage anyone to try it. I did it and you can get in shape and can do it too.’ “
