Dr. Rua Read is a 麻豆社国产physician who likes to set a high standard on demonstrating the importance of exercising. Taking on her fifth Test of Metal race this weekend, Read is excited about the event and noted that several local physicians in town regularly take part.
"I think it's great that the local community physicians stay fit and active and participate in this great community event," she said.
She cites her husband, who has been racing for more than 20 years, as her inspiration for participating in the Test of Metal race. "Watching him race inspired me to do it," she said.
For Read, it's all about the bike community that keeps her wanting to race. "I love the bike community here - it's really fun," she said. "It's a whole community now... people who like getting on their bike. It's way more than racing."
Read's aspirations for this year's race are the same as in previous years - to improve on her time. Last year, she finished a respectable 207th overall in three hours, 39 minutes, 30 seconds, winning her 40 to 44 age category.
"This year I would like to be 10 minutes faster," she said. "Ten minutes is going to be tough to shave off but I think I can. I have put in more time on my bike this year."
Memories of previous Test of Metal races that stand out for her include riding Rollercoaster, with the crowds of racers lining the whole trail. "That's a great moment in the Test," she said.
Read also loves the connections she has made with fellow racers during the competition. "Over the years I have struck up many conversations with fellow racers, particularly in the parade up Jack's Trail," she said. "It's interesting because you actually meet people while you're racing, because you're both having fun together and suffering together."
Read has never suffered an injury during the Test and says she has always been fortunate to make it to the race day healthy and ready to go.
"I think that, unfortunately, getting to the start line and not being either sick or injured... is challenging," she said, adding that most injuries occur during the lead-up to the event.
As a physician, Read's advice to other competitors is to get lots of rest in the days leading up the race, to ensure you are well hydrated with a sports drink or electrolyte drink before the event, and to take it easy on the first descent.
"It's a long race and every year people crash on the first gravelly descent, so I would recommend taking it easy - you will have lots of time to pass later on," she said with a smile.
A huge fan of the Test of Metal event, Read calls it a "great day for Squamish."
"I think there are 200 to 300 volunteers who come out and support the race and there are a huge number of families that come and line the course," she said. "It's one of those things that make me proud that I live here."
