911Jetta

(sorry for the long winded story below...)

My brother and I attended the road cycling world championships this past weekend. (We also attended the race the last time it was in the States, in '86) Richmond, normally a two hour drive, turned into a fantastic six hour back road romp.

Street parking is always a hassle (or concern) at such big events. So I decided to make up a "new" row, soon a mini van started to circle, at first it passed by, searching for another spot. Minutes later it returned and I helped guide it into a spot right behind me. The driver got out and said, "they'll ticket the Porsche first." Then the a passenger gets out... I think I recognize him?? OMG, Davis Phinney and Connie Carpenter-Phinney. Absolute cycling legends (Olympic medals, Tour de France stages, etc)

Unfortunately Davis was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at the age of 40, and his mobility now is compromised. So I was very excited to see him, but didn't know how to make a quick connection... then I remembered one of his other loves. Porsches.

Very heartwarming video, showing the experiences these cars create (@2:50)


So I hand Davis my keys and tell him to get in and start it up. The smile on his face when he turned the key was priceless!






Sorry for the random post, not normally "starstruck" but this hit me on so many levels.

Davis & Connie:
https://vimeo.com/105265257

GeorgeK

Davis is awesome. I like him so much more now, he is so gracious in the face of adversity.

YaHoo!

Awesome story and great move! These cars touch/inspire a lot of people. Thanks for sharing!

911Jetta

+1

+1 Read your father & son Rennsport V thread. Priceless memories.

Mondrian

Thats so cool, I had Eric Vanderaerden stay with me for a week ... but thats a different story for a different day.

Invictus

Nice post.

Also nice press in WSJ last week for his son:

http://www.wsj.com/articles/bike-wor...ney-1443119983

Green_Hornet

Great story!
Sounds like you had a wonderful time. -
Congratulations - wish I'd been there with you.

Crystal Cranks

Thanks for a great post and the video Jetta,
Three things that have played a big part in my life, I love my Bike Racing and Porsche's and unfortunately my father passed away two years ago after having Parkinson's for 20 years.

DTMLGND

I know nothing about cycling, but I love this post!
Thank you 911Jetta You are a good man.
The video was very touching, especially the part about living life beyond the sport and taking life in a positive manner as we all face problems and tragedies.
My wife and I still struggle with the loss of our eldest daughter from a tragic boating accident 2 1/2 years ago, but we continue on as best we can.
This is part of what I really enjoy about this forum, the human touch. We come from all walks of life, may never ever speak or see one another in life, but the stories and camaraderie always seem personal.

FOS373

Super awesome. Used to see him training with Taylor in Boulder quite a bit. Davis would be riding a scooter blocking the wind.

911Jetta

A big, big +1!

It was a totally unexpected treat for my brother (selfie photographer) and me.

JV911

Thanks for posting!

Great race too - I stayed got up to watch it (started at 3am here). Looked to have a European feel to it especially with the cobbled climbs. Very Vlaanderen-esque!