The Arrival of Your Goal :: Athlete Profile - Matt Hollas

by Matt Hollas

As cyclists and endurance athletes, we are accustomed to setting lofty and sometimes extremely aggressive goals for ourselves. It allows us to dream of what at one time we may have thought impossible to accomplish.

Being an avid cyclist for 20+ years, I can still remember my first group ride and getting dropped during the warm-up. I can also remember my first century and how much harder it was, than what I thought it would be. Surprisingly, I enjoyed the challenge and suffering that cycling presented.

On September 11, 2010, I rode my first 24-hour solo road ride, south of Castle Rock, CO to benefit the Autism Society of Colorado (ASC). My nephew Reid is Autistic and is my inspiration for this new challenge. Reid, like all children with Autism, battles everyday to overcome the obstacles. Common challenges include social and speech development, as well as learning disabilities.

Recent studies show, that one out of every 110 children born in the United States has some form of Autism and there is no known cause for this sudden rise in and no cure.

The Autism Society of Colorado works directly with individuals and families that are affected by Autism. They provide guidance, counseling, financial aid and work closely with our state and local legislators to ensure that the needs of these families are heard and met.

Back in October of 2009 I set my goal of riding 24 hours. Rob Lockey agreed to help and brought me on the Optimized Endurance team as a Community Sponsored Athlete. Rob has made my lofty goal seem attainable and setup a specific training plan help me succeed in accomplishing my goal. I put all the training to the test and completed 300 miles in 21 hours with a $24,000 donation total for ASC .

It has been amazing watching Reid’s Ride come to life and see all the people come together to support our cause. It is time to start thinking about my goals for next year and things I can do differently. One thing will always remain constant , my inspiration from Reid and knowing that as far out as my goals seem, they pale in comparison to his goal of working towards a normal and happy life.

The ride files for the event can be found by clicking the links below:
10am to 5pm 8laps/115 miles
5pm to 10pm 5laps/up to 187 miles
10pm to 4am 6laps/up to 274 miles
5am to 7am 2laps/surpassed the goal with 302.12miles!

Watch an interview with Matt here (courtesy of 9News.com).

Optimize Endurance Services can be reached at www.optimizeendurance.com