the birm*

An ode to a mate/a man who has come alive.

Is it legal? I mean, he’s far from dead; in fact he’s in the best shape I’ve ever known him!

“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs, ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that. The world needs people who have come alive”.

I can’t remember who wrote this (I think it was in Wild at Heart, but I’m not sure). I love that quote. I was thinking of it when I read the news recently that Jas English had won the Newcastle 8 hour WWS race.

While this is not really surprising, as he’s a machine and has been getting better and fitter ever since I’ve known him and had the chance to ride with him, it remains an amazing feat. Why? Because in a national race 2 months ago, while chasing down the leader, he came off and broke his back (4 vertebrae).

Jas was training to do the world endurance championships (they’re in Canada in July) and it seriously put a question mark over it. But he walked again and later started riding (on the road mainly). Next thing I hear he’s back racing and winning quite a tough race (8 hrs is not 24 hrs, but it’s still an amazing feat, even for someone in great shape!).

I find it really cool that Jas is so good at riding bikes and that he’s so passionate about it. Whenever you go riding with him it’s fun (and super-tough!) and you always have a good time. why? Because he loves it and it rubs off on whoever rides with him. Riding bikes is what makes him come alive and in return it makes others around him come alive (unless he’s beating them in a race!).

So Jas, keep it up. It’s really encouraging and enjoyable to watch (or read about) you doing so well. I look fwd to keep following your life mate!