Grant at the podium

We had a visit in May from the unassuming hero of steel, leather, and twine.  Grant Petersen made a stop on his book tour for Just Ride at Free Range Cycles in Fremont, Seattle, WA, USA, Universe.  We had a glorious sunny day to welcome him, and it brought local luminaries like Jan Heine, Kent Peterson, and Dan Boxer (among others I am surely missing) to wish him well and listen.

It was standing room only

His half-hour talk was a personal recollection of his path from young bike racer, to becoming an un-racer who is out to enjoy riding for its own sake.  The crowd flowed out the door at the small Seattle bike shop, and after his discussion, we all went for an easy ride along the ship canal to the Ballard Locks and back.

Grant at the locks

He had to leave for the airport by 7:30pm, so we had to get him back within an hour according to his “agent” who was going to hold yours truly personally responsible for this.  Hmmm – me responsible for Grant’s safety for an hour.  That’s funny…

Kathleen and Grant

I saw some friends from prior “riv rides” and was able to meet some new friends, as well.  I’m wishing I had taken some better photos of the whole event, as Jan had ridden his infamous Alex Singer, and there were so many nice Rivendells and Bridgestones, I lost count.  I’d like to thank Kathleen at Free Range Cycles for having an awesome LBS, as well as giving me the opportunity to “lead” the ride after the signing.  Truly one experience I won’t soon forget!