Message from Jim
:
I am a very active person and passionate gravel cyclist. I grew up on a remote Arizona ranch where independence, endurance, and a love for the outdoors were part of everyday life. In 1993, I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 21, a challenge that has shaped me, but never defined me. Instead, it gave me a deeper appreciation for health, resilience, and the power of movement. I have never thought “What could I have done if I didn’t have diabetes?” and instead think “Look at all of the things I can do! And, by the way, I’m diabetic!”.
About Jim
:
My cycling journey began with mountain biking in the Arizona desert, eventually leading me to discover my passion for gravel. Over the years, I’ve embraced both the solitude, discipline and freedom of long rides, turning Type 1 diabetes into a driving force rather than a limitation.
Highlights of my cycling journey include:
- Tackling century rides and high-elevation routes throughout Oregon and Arizona
- Logging thousands of miles annually across gravel, road, and singletrack
- Competing in a dozen solo 24 Hour Races that tested both grit and diabetes management
- Winning the Bend Dirt Fest ‘2-person Gravel/Mtb Masters Mixed 100 years and over’ category with my wife Lisa. Try saying that 10 times!
I continue to push my limits through racing and adventure rides, proving that chronic illness doesn’t have to hold you back – it can fuel your determination. Cycling isn’t just a sport for me. It’s a way of life, a tool for balance, and a reminder that with a positive mindset, resilience and passion, anything is possible.
Jim’s Challenge For You
:
“Having a goal keeps me motivated year-round,” Jim says. “It doesn’t have to be a race, just something that challenges you. My current goal is to ride 6,000 miles this year. Some of my other goals have been doing more than 15 laps in a solo 24-hour race (over 250 miles, not done … yet) and beating 10,000 kicks in hacky sack (done!).”
If you’re looking for a starting point, Jim recommends picking a Dirty Freehub Gravel Guide and setting your sights on completing all the routes in it. Setting a personal goal, whether it’s mileage, routes, or simply getting out more days than last year, can transform your riding, your health, and your mindset.
Your homework:
Choose a goal that excites you, write it down, and start chasing it. Whether you’re managing a challenge like diabetes or simply looking for more adventure, the right goal can change your year, and maybe even your life!
Extra credit: tell people about your goal, you’re more likely to complete it!
Links about Jim:
Read Jim’s Full Bio – Why Type 1 Diabetes Became One of the Best Things That Ever Happened to Me
Where to Find Jim:
Blog
Instagram
Organizations:
American Diabetes Association
Jim’s Favorite Dirty Freehub Routes:
Water & Lava
Saxophone
Sherman’s Waltz
