Larry's Fake Rolex

Larry was a huge larger than life character who, appropriately for a Frenchman, epitomised the phrase "joie de vivre". He very sadly died far too young and the world is a less happier place as a result of his passing.


One thing Larry loved was a really good argument. Not just for the sake of it. He was a believer, as am I, that the ideal way to test and advance knowledge, in the best traditions of the Ancient Greek philosophers, is to put your theories to the test. Those that survive will come out stronger, those that don't are no good and can be dispensed with.


I remember one of our arguments particularly well. Larry had just come back from a trip to Asia and showed us the "Rolex" he had bought there. It was of course a counterfeit, but an extremely good one. To the naked and inexpert eye it looked authentic.


Larry's view was that he could not see why anyone would pay thousands for the real thing when they could get a watch like his for just a fraction of that amount.


I disagreed. Personally I would never buy a Rolex but if I was of a mind to I could only imagine getting the genuine article. The point for me was not that other people could not tell the difference I would know I would be wearing a fake. In this case I couldn't change his mind nor he mine so we agreed to differ, have another drink and pick another topic to discuss.


What's all this got to do with cycling?


The most important thing necessary for succeeding in anything, including cycling, is motivation. All the physical talent and resources in the world will serve as nothing if this is not present.


There are two fundamental types of motivation. They are not exclusive, indeed almost everyone will have both. However it is important to understand the difference between the two.


The types are


Intrinsic motivation – where something is done for its own sake and the reward is internal, the self knowledge and fulfillment of having achieved something.


Extrinsic motivation – where something is done for an external reason such as money or the recognition of others.


Neither of these is "good" or "bad".


In the case of the fake Rolex Larry's motivation was extrinsic, mine intrinsic. Different strokes for different folks.


I am the same with regards cycling. I get some pleasure from extrinsic rewards such as the status that comes with doing well in competition and setting records, But my overwhelming motivation is intrinsic. I train hard and ride hard because I like to set myself challenges and see if I can meet them. Taking part in races and other events is simply a means to that end as it helps me focus and brings out my best.


While I said earlier neither form of motivation is inherently good or bad I do think that from the perspective of the aging athlete my form of motivation is more positive in the long run.


If your measurements  depend on things like finishing position or rider category then, if these start to decline, then so too will your self esteem.. Motivation is likely to suffer as a result and this can very quickly develop into a vicious cycle that leads to giving up due to "getting old".


The only competitor I care about is myself, a year or so ago. My goal is just to hold my own against him and if possible be a little better.


So far so good on that score, this has kept me enjoying my training and finishing every session looking forward to the next one. Long may it continue.