Lynne Cuevas
found the article in the oregonian archives of the Washinton countHILLSBORO -- Sharon Cartwright is only on the cusp of 50, but she's a welcomed member of the Senior Rollers, a recreational cycling organization that's attracting graying riders throughout the metropolitan area.
"The first time I rode out with them, I had mechanical problems and within 15 seconds, someone was there with a multi-tool helping me out," said 49-year-old Cartwright of Buxton. "I knew right away that I was going to like this group."
Wheelmeister Tony Montes, 67, of Hillsboro formed the Senior Rollers about three years ago with a couple of friends who were looking for a low-impact way to exercise.
"I'd been dealing with diabetes and high blood pressure and just wasn't getting enough exercise," Montes said. "We talked and decided that we wanted something to help us get back in shape that would be fun."
If you go:
• Who: New and experienced riders, mostly 50 years and older. Must be able to pedal 15 to 30 miles.
• When: Mondays, 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• What else: Coffee and lunch stops. Helmet required.
• Cost: Free
• Information: 503-504-4441
And, fun it is. Every Monday around 10 a.m., about two dozen like-minded cyclists snap on their helmets, check their gear and roll out in a tight-knit group to explore a section of the metropolitan area. Along the way, they pause to sightsee, sip coffee and enjoy lunch in a newly discovered cafe.
Most are retired professionals, former government employees, and law enforcement officers, with a handful of working adults in their 50s and 60s. But, it's not unusual to find a 70- and 80-year-old cruising along in the pack.
"Our motto is that we never leave anyone behind and only go as fast as the slowest rider," Montes said of their 15- to 30-mile outings. "When I started out, I was afraid to ride in traffic. So, I know what's going through many of the newcomers' minds."
Before most trips, members don shirts bearing their logo, "Cycology" which they describe as the "science of propelling one's self safely through the environment to enhance well-being."
"It's turning into a year-round activity for me and an important part of my life," said Alan Zehntbauer, 70 of Aloha. "I love the exercise but I'm also learning where to find all the best coffee shops."
Bruce Buffington, 63, executive director of the Northwest Bicycle Safety Council and cable television host, enjoys the social nature of the rides and the workout regimen. He encourages novices to join in as an inexpensive way to learn cycling etiquette, where and how to purchase equipment, basic repairs, and the safest routes to travel on two wheels.
"We're all about making people feel secure on these rides," Buffington said. "The roads have gotten a lot safer in past five or six years, but we're still working to make every ride a pleasurable experience."
To that end, Senior Rollers has raised its profile in recent months through fundraising activities to pay for bike clinics, and helmet giveaways at area schools and low-income apartment complexes.
"We've given away about 1,200 helmets and that's quite a thrill," said Montes.
Cartwright speaks passionately about Senior Rollers but has one complaint: For now, it's made up of mostly men.
"Like most women, I don't like to ride by myself," she said. "I think that once a woman comes out with us and sees how she's treated, she'll want to come back."
If you have an idea for a sport or fitness story, contact Joe Fitzgibbon at 503-223-0725 or by e-mail at fitzgibbon@integra.net