The Riders We Never Forget: How Chance Encounters Leave a Lasting Mark

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

One of the things I’ve come to realize after decades in the saddle is that cycling connects people in ways that few other things can. Whether it's for five minutes or five hours, riding side by side with someone can form a bond that sticks — even if the moment passes and you never see each other again.

There are two rides that stand out in my memory, even though years — even decades — have gone by. I never exchanged full names or kept in touch with either of these people. But they’ve stayed with me, clear as a tailwind on a sunny day.

100 Miles of Camaraderie

One year during the 24 Hours in the Canyon event at Palo Duro Canyon, I found myself riding the first stretch alongside a man I had never met before. We were similar in ability and resolve, and it just worked. We climbed out of the canyon together and covered the first 100 miles side by side, talking like old friends the entire way.

I don’t remember his name now. I think he was from somewhere near Amarillo. But I do remember how much we had in common — our mindset, our pace, even our attitude toward the challenge ahead. We shared stories, tips, and a sense of purpose. It was the kind of connection that feels rare but natural, the kind you don’t have to force.

Once we returned to the canyon and started riding the 5-mile loops that continue through the night, we drifted apart. I never saw him again. But I still think about that ride. About how much I learned from him. About how that kind of chance meeting can become one of the highlights of a long event — maybe even the part you remember most.

A Ride Through Arlington — and a Memory That Lingers

Even farther back — all the way in the 1980s — I was on a family vacation to Arlington, Texas, visiting Six Flags. I’d brought my bike along and decided to sneak in a ride one morning, heading south of town onto what were then quiet farm roads dotted with new developments and shopping centers.

Out there, I caught up with a woman riding the same model bike as me, just a different color. We started talking — first about the bikes, then about everything else. We discovered we were both teachers, close in age, and had an incredible amount in common.

We ended up riding 40 miles together, completely lost in conversation. When we returned, she invited me to her house to clean up after the ride. I declined — I was married, and she was single — and I felt it wasn’t right. But I’ve thought about her often over the years. She was gorgeous, smart, and fascinating. It’s hard not to wonder what would’ve happened if we’d met at a different time. Or if I’d at least exchanged contact information. Would we still ride together now and then? Would we still talk?

I’ll never know.

Why It Matters

What I do know is this: some people enter our lives for a short stretch of road, and then they’re gone — but they leave something behind. A sense of connection. A reminder of what matters. A memory that lasts longer than you’d ever expect.

Cycling has given me a lot over the years — health, freedom, and purpose. But it’s also given me moments like these. Unexpected, powerful connections that unfold under the open sky, with the road stretching ahead and no destination in mind except forward.

So if you ever find yourself riding next to someone and the miles start flying by a little faster — pay attention. You may be sharing something that lasts far beyond the ride.

🚴 Gear I Personally Use and Recommend

I personally use all of these and swear by them. They’ve helped me stay healthy, ride longer, and recover smarter.

• Renpho Smart Scale — I use this one and it gives me a tremendous amount of information that has been integral to my weight loss and healthy lifestyle.
  👉 Check it out on Amazon
• Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet — I wear mine every ride. It is comfortable and it protects me.
  👉 Check it out on Amazon
• Outdoor Essentials Cooling Arm Sleeves — I wear these to protect my arms from the damaging sun as I have skin cancer issues.
  👉 Check it out on Amazon
• Przewalski Bib Shorts — I have multiple pairs of these. They cost a lot less than the others and last me longer.
  👉 Check it out on Amazon
• Premier Protein Shakes — I drink one after every ride. They are low sugar and packed with protein to give me what I need.
  👉 Check it out on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps keep this blog rolling.