Two days ago, Feb 26, as thousands of cyclists from around the world were riding our local 33 mile course known as Chilly Hilly, we staged an event, free to the public, consisting of the screening of a pair of cycling films. The latter of which was followed by a trio of local cycling celebrities taking the stage for a Q & A. The three, Kiel Reijnen, Joe Holmes and Matt Albee were exactly as advertised; entertaining, knowledgeable and gregarious. It was my error in scheduling that necessitated a shortened appearance as customers began filling the lobby for the matinee screening of the Oscar Nominated Documentary short features. I sincerely thank the three for their contribution to the community by their donation of personal time for the event, and apologize for the brevity of their appearance.
Should you not recognize them, Kiel is a graduate of BIHS and the University of Colorado school of engineering as well as logging a very successful 15-year career in Professional Cycling. He has traveled the world winning several stages and overalls riding for some of the most notable teams in the sport. He lives on Bainbridge Island with his wife and two lovely young daughters.
Matt Albee is also a former pro rider whose most recent conquest was a 700-mile bikepacking race from La Push, WA to the Idaho/Washington border. On Sunday he visited us between Chilly Hilly laps 2 and 3, a 99 mile ride. He is also the founder and owner of Eleven Winery, whose most popular three blends we are honored to serve at the HLT.
Joe Holmes is a pro cycling coach, race director, mountain climber and all-around ambassador of the sport of cycling. He also holds a degree in Political Science from Ohio State. Joe is coach to both of our Islands professional cyclists, Kiel and Heidi Franz.
I was my pleasure to spend an hour with Joe yesterday talking about his career, his time in LA and his move to the NW, specifically to the Island we call home. The same place that brags of its inclusion to hosting one of the top three cycling events in the country, yes, that would be none other than Chilly Hilly, now in it's 51st year.
Joe is owner/operator of a coaching service called Tete de la Course (Leader of the pack) and can be reached by phone at 818. 430.7055 for more information on his services.
Take a listen, and enjoy the ride.
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