As my term as VP of VMB nears its end, I've been thinking a lot about being an off-road cyclist in the Lehigh Valley and our three MTB clubs.
One, the Chain Gang, has been around forever and has its core group of long-time members (I've been one for ten years) -- many of whom have also become members of VMB. -- I think primarily because of what VMB has accomplished, namely Salisbury.
The other, besides VMB, is the Dirt Devils. DD was founded out of differences of opinion between former members of VMB. Though I sort of stuck with VMB and CG (two clubs is more than I need!) when Brian S. branched out on his own, I still talk to and get along well with Brian S. and the cyclists who split for DD. Plus, I've had the opportunity to ride or work with newer members of DD...
This summer I had the pleasure of meeting the Carter family. A great family of cyclists. I had heard of them, but never met them. And, just today, I did some trail maintenance with Chuck W. -- a name I recognized from the DD but had never before met. I had a nice conversation with Chuck.
This got me thinking ... how much different or better could the local scene be if there were fewer clubs -- and things were less diluted? Could we all find a place for ourselves and as a group (under whatever name) accomplish more and make more new riding buddies? That makes sense to me.
For example, I'd love to introduce my friend Terry M. from the Dirt Devils to my friend Pete H. from the Chain Gang. I think they might hit it off and possibly become riding buddies.
I feel very strongly that VMB is an invaluable resource to any local rider. And I say this as someone who's also a current member/former vice president of another club. It's through VMBs organization, leadership and the work of its members that we have nine-plus miles of completely-legal singletrack at Salisbury. It didn't happen because we were just riding. If a new trail system comes together at Trexler Park it will be thanks to that same level of organization and work. I strongly urge you to check out VMB -- whether it's for a ride or trail building -- and consider getting involved and becoming a member.
Sorry for being so windy and I realize I may be dreaming, but at least let me ask this of you:
If somebody from your club rubs you the wrong way or says something you don't appreciate online, please consider not just walking away pissed-off forever. I'm sure there are plenty of other members you'll enjoy riding with or building new trails with. Or better yet, you'll be able to work out your differences with that person. Let's face it -- there's too much potential in a group effort to let some relatively small differences get in the way.
Best wishes to everyone from every club for a great Holiday Season and New Year full of great rides and some sweet new singletrack.