Journal

Do you know those short moments when you're a little too fast on that winding trail, a bit too motivated taking that new suspension fork to its limits, a little less focused than you should be? These are exactly the moments when trail goblins attack. They will push you down that hill to be faster, they will jump on your bars to maneuver you out of that narrow turn, and yes, they will swing their hammers on your derailleur to make sure it won’t work anymore after the crash you are now going to witness.

Realizing I went down, for me it’s just anxious thoughts like – this impact was too hard for not getting hurt! - did this really happen? - what happened at all? Hastily checking my very bones and joints. Can I move every part of my body? Wondering why my bike lies 10 meters away from me. Shaking off the soil from my hands. Trying whether my feet still are able to carry my weight.

Slowly getting an idea of who was stronger this time — my reflexes and bones or gravity and the goblins. Their laughter behind the silent trees confirms their power but will eventually fade. I will always be a guest out there. Respect your hosts. Getting hurt sucks. Go slow!