If you are looking for photos from the 2025 El Tour De Zona, the link is below. Past years’ images are also available in the gallery. I’m working on a word press glitch and you might need to copy and paste the link;-(

This year, my El Tour de Zona experience started a little differently—I missed the first day while waiting for my new camera, the Nikon Z6III, to arrive. It’s my first mirrorless setup, and I made the switch to ease the strain my old rig was putting on my neck and back during rides. There’s always a learning curve with new gear, but I was thrilled with how well the images turned out for my first event with it.

Even though I missed Thursday’s ride, I still got plenty of miles in over the weekend. On Friday, I joined the PeopleForBikes Leadership Conference group for a ride up Mt. Lemmon, one of the most iconic climbs in Arizona. Instead of staying overnight in Sierra Vista, I decided to sleep in my own bed back in Tucson. One of the best things about El Tour de Zona is its flexibility—if you live in Tucson and just want to join for a day, it’s only about a 90-minute drive.

Saturday: A Fast Ride to Bisbee

Saturday’s ride was a little different this year, with the route reversed to go clockwise from Sierra Vista to Bisbee. While the 3,200 feet of climbing over 67 miles might sound tough, my recent mileage made it feel pretty manageable.

The ride started fast. Normally, I drop from the lead group early to take photos, but the scenery near Sierra Vista isn’t as dramatic as it is further down the road. So, I made the call to suffer a bit on my gravel bike and hang in with the front group. It had been a while since I rode in a peloton, and it reminded me how much fun fast group riding can be. There’s an art to it—staying in position, responding to surges, holding your line—but the thrill never fades.

As always, the landscape was stunning. The geology of this region is fascinating—rolling grasslands transition into rugged mountains, with exposed rock formations that tell stories millions of years old. The botany shifts just as dramatically, from high-desert scrub near Sierra Vista to the oak woodlands and piñon-covered hills surrounding Bisbee. This constant change is one of the reasons I love riding here—you feel like you’re moving through different worlds in just a few miles.

Once in Bisbee, I took some time to explore and then grabbed lunch and a beer with the crew from Cirrus Visual Communications. They had absolutely crushed the ride into town, and on the way back, I happily sat in their draft. Every time I passed another rider, I’d have to sit up, get dropped, and sprint to catch back on—turning the ride into an even better workout.

At one point, I noticed a rider struggling against the wind and peeled off to give her a tow. A few miles later, I caught back up with the Cirrus crew at an aid station and rode with them—until I saw a small pond with ducks and couldn’t resist stopping for a photo. Water in the desert is rare, and moments like that make every ride unique.

The wind on the way back was unpredictable. At times, I was grinding away at 10-12 mph, working hard just to keep moving. Other times, I was barely pedaling and cruising at 25 mph. It was a ride full of effort, variety, and fun—a perfect reminder of why I love cycling.

Sunday: The Must-Do Ride to Tombstone

The Sunday ride to Tombstone is one of those must-do rides. And I’m not just saying that as a board member of El Tour in hopes that you’ll sign up—I truly believe this is a special day in the saddle.

What makes it so unique? The road from Sierra Vista to Tombstone is completely closed to traffic, creating a safe and peaceful riding environment. The route takes you through rolling high-desert terrain with mountains and hills on all sides, making for an unforgettable ride.

The day starts with a downhill stretch to the San Pedro River, then the rolling hills begin. Over 36 miles, the route gains about 1,600 feet of elevation, but thanks to the momentum from the descents, many of the climbs feel easier than they sound. And as you crest each hill, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of Arizona’s high desert.

Tombstone is best known for the O.K. Corral, but its history runs much deeper. Originally a mining town, it has a rich past worth exploring beyond the famous gunfights. If you have time, it’s worth wandering beyond Main Street to take it all in. But even if you just stick to the center of town, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—shops, restaurants, and locals in Old West costumes add to the charm.

I ended up at the bar with Team Cirrus, and before I knew it, we were rolling out for the ride home. The return trip was fast—just about an hour, capping off an incredible weekend on two wheels.

If you attended the PeopleForBikes Leadership Conference in Tucson, I’m delighted to share the ride images with you—free of charge—as a small token of gratitude for the incredible work you do in shaping the cycling world. My passion lies in getting people outside, staying active, and fostering a vibrant community. I am deeply appreciative of the companies and individuals who make this lifestyle possible, not just for me, but for so many others.

To access the images, use the password ilovebikes (all lowercase).

Tucson is home to an exceptional cycling culture, world-class riding, and an increasing number of industry leaders who have chosen to set up shop here. If you ever need assistance while in town, I’d be happy to help. While photography remains a personal passion—apart from covering running and cycling events—I’m always eager to collaborate with brands, offering support in site selection, model coordination, and marketing content creation.

Beyond photography, I write a cycling column for a local publication and frequently contribute to product reviews and beta testing.

However, my primary profession is in residential real estate—often conducted from the saddle! If you’ve ever considered making the desert your home, I would be honored to assist in finding the perfect place for you.

Once again, THANK YOU for coming to Tucson. It was a pleasure meeting and engaging with each of you, and I look forward to crossing paths again—whether on the road, the trail, or in the heart of the cycling community.

This link will take you to both this and last years images. https://thetucsonphotographer.smugmug.com/Sports/People-for-Bikes-Leadership-Conference

El Grupo Youth Cycling recently hosted its annual kit release party, an event that highlights not just their vibrant new cycling kits but also the strong bonds and shared values that define this Tucson-based organization. For those unfamiliar, a cycling kit refers to the snug-fitting, aerodynamic jerseys and shorts cyclists wear. El Grupo’s 2025 kit is a striking design featuring “El Grupo” boldly written in yellow across the front, with “Tucson, AZ” just below it. The jersey’s deep blue base, accented by yellow side panels and curved, alternating bold and narrow lines, gives it a dynamic, modern look.

This year’s celebration was more than just a showcase of the kit. It was a heartfelt gathering of athletes, alumni, family members, coaches, and supporters. Alumni read aloud reflections from current athletes, many of whom emphasized that El Grupo is far more than a place to ride bikes—it is a family. The recurring theme in their words was the balance of hard work and community: the program demands dedication and effort, but the rewards extend far beyond cycling skills, fostering lifelong friendships and personal growth.

The cold and windy weather added another layer to the evening. Athletes, shivering and huddled together, unintentionally illustrated the close-knit community that El Grupo fosters. Their camaraderie was on full display, a testament to the program’s impact on its participants.

El Grupo’s success is deeply rooted in the support of the Tucson community. Founded in 2005, it has grown into a vital organization that empowers youth through cycling, providing them with discipline, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. Its programs and opportunities are only possible because of the generosity of donors, volunteers, and advocates who believe in the transformative power of bicycles.

My personal connection to El Grupo runs deep. In its early years, my son, Sam, became one of the youngest athletes accepted into the program. Over the six years that followed, I played multiple roles—as a father, coach, and photographer. Seeing athletes I once coached at this event, now adults, was heartwarming. Among them were two former teammates who are recently engaged (though not to each other). It reminded me that the bonds formed in El Grupo often extend far beyond the bike trails, weaving a lifelong network of shared experiences and mutual support.

This year’s kit release party was a beautiful reminder of El Grupo’s mission and the power of community. As they ride into another season, their impact on Tucson’s youth continues to grow, one cyclist—and one family—at a time.

A little over a year ago, on Christmas Day 2023, I found myself immobilized on my kitchen floor, alone, in excruciating pain. If I so much as twitched, pain shot through my body. Even lying perfectly still was a throbbing kind of torture. That day, I made a promise: I was not going to let my body dictate my life anymore. Narcotics weren’t an option for me, so I had to figure out another way. I sought out a physical therapist (Noah Abrams), Chiropractor Dr. Chris Cox on the east side of Tucson, and used a gifted membership at Canyon Ranch from my sister from another Mr. to begin rebuilding my strength and addressing my nagging injuries.

It turns out my injury was a sprained QL (Quadratus Lumborum)—and let me tell you, for me it was one of the most debilitating conditions I’ve ever experienced. The culprit? Shoveling 220 tons of dirt. Sure, it toughened me up, but it also reminded me that without proper care, my body can—and will—reach a breaking point.

Not a Superhuman—Just Really Stubborn

When people learn I rode my bike every single day last year (averaging three hours and 45 minutes per day), they sometimes assume I’m superhuman. The truth is, I’m not. I deal with arthritis, back issues, cramps so intense they demand my full attention, sour stomach, and lingering injuries that I’ve had to learn to manage. A crash the night before the Tour De Scottsdale led to an unpleasant injury the the labrum, the ring of cartilage that lines the shoulder socket. It is called A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) It occurs when the labrum tears at its attachment point to the biceps tendon, which connects the shoulder to the forearm. In Telluride I broke a frame on the mountain bike and created some of the most splendid purple and blue colors across my body.

Despite all that, I’m convinced that consistent movement—especially on a bike—helps me stay on top of my ailments. I definitely hurt from the slap tear, the bruising, and Covid, but am certain riding through it helped me get back to form so much faster. If I waited to feel “100%” every time I rode, I’d never get on the bike. There are days where I wonder how I’m going to pedal a mile, but somehow, I end up riding 30 or more.

Weather (and the Clothing Problem)

Riding every day means facing all kinds of weather. But I’ve learned something critical: weather isn’t the real issue—clothing and nutrition is. As long as I have the right layers (base layers, vest, down jacket, windbreaker, gloves, wool socks in winter), I can handle cold. Summer sometimes gets warm in Tucson and staying hydrated and fueled is key. Living in Southern Arizona.. I still remember a time I was taking photos at an event on a frigid morning and lost all feeling in my hands. The camera was completely steady, but my fingers were basically numb. Experience taught me what works for me at each temperature range, and I always carry extra layers. In Tucson, you can start in winter gear at sunrise and be in shorts by noon—so you’ve got to be prepared for quick changes.

Saddle Sores, Cramps, and “Butt Butt’r”

It’s not all about temperature and cold fingers, though. Sometimes the biggest challenge is literal pain in the butt—saddle sores. Lubricant matters!!!! After years and dozens of products, my favorite is Joshua Tree Cycling Salve for daily rides and healing salve for sores. I’m also partial to The Eurostyle Butt Butt’r chamois cream- it tingles. Then there are times where riding without a chamois, to let some airflow circulate, is the best solution. The point is, you adapt. The same goes for cramps. I get these screaming, full-stop cramps that force me to practice breathing techniques to loosen them up and grit my teeth and pedal through them. They don’t care if I’m in the middle of a busy intersection or two hours deep into El Tour De Tucson—I have to deal with them whenever they strike.

Bike Maintenance: You Can’t Ride Daily Without It

Anyone who’s tried riding daily knows that maintenance is a never-ending chore. I went through four sets of tires last year and replaced three chains, a half dozen bottles of Boeshield T-9 Bicycle Chain Waterproof Lubricant, pints of Stan’s tire sealant, and more rags than I can count. I had a few flats, but usually my sealant got me home without too much fuss. On the extreme side of issues, I broke two frames and even cracked a fork. Riding saves gas money, sure, but it’s not free—you pay for it in tires, parts, and the occasional big-ticket repair.

Commuting by Bike: My Secret to Racking Up Miles

One of my biggest strategies for riding daily was incorporating the bike into my commute. In fact, commuting likely accounted for half my total miles last year. Riding to meetings not only gave me exercise, it also helped me clear my head. When I have a frustrating issue at work, hopping on my bike helps me process the problem in a more creative, less stressed way. I’ve closed deals, negotiated repair requests, and sent important emails using the Sena line of helmets with Bluetooth speakers and microphone. You can go 25 miles an hour and have conversations. I truly believe cycling is the greatest invention as a a problem-solving tool.

Rules of the Streak Set after January 21, 2023, the day I forgot to ride…. outside.

1. A daily ride must be outside and last at least 45 minutes.

3. Don’t Stress the Distance – It’s not about max mileage; it’s about consistency. A slow, easy ride still counts.

What was the significance of January 21? I’ll admit, there was a single day I missed riding outdoors. The Detroit Lions were playing in the playoffs, and I got so invested in the game that I ended up only riding on a stationary bike. It’s a small asterisk on an otherwise solid outdoor streak and in 2025 I finished riding outside for a year on January 21.

No One Does It Alone

Part of sticking to a daily ride is community and accountability. Years ago, I posted every ride on Strava, labeling them day by day. That was public accountability. This time, I did things more quietly, but I still have an unspoken drive to keep moving forward, day after day. I’m also a cheerleader—for others and for myself. That mindset helps me push through the tougher days.

And let’s not forget the professionals who helped me rebuild after my QL sprain, along with supportive friends and family who understand that biking isn’t just a pastime; it’s central to how I live and work. A little encouragement can go a long way when you’re faced with back pain, broken frames, or the freezing cold.

Why This Matters

Some might wonder, “Why do it?” or “Why not just rest?” My reason is simple: It’s a lifestyle that makes me feel content. I don’t want to spend my life in pain or on my kitchen floor, incapable of standing up. Cycling is my way of proactively keeping my body and mind healthy. It’s also fun. It sounds strange, but even on days when I’m suffering—when I have saddle sores, numb fingers, or my back is acting up—I still find joy in being outside, feeling the wind, and finding new places to explore.

At the end of the day, I’m just a guy with a bike (or five), a bit of stubbornness, and a huge desire to keep moving. If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not athletic enough,” or “I’m too old,” let me tell you: I’m no superhero. If I can log these miles and stay active, so can you. It’s not about riding for hours or hitting top speeds—it’s about showing up, day after day, and riding your ride, no matter how short, slow, or wobbly.

Thanks for reading, and here’s to another year of daily riding—come hell, high water, or cracked fork.

The Run Around Tucson Relay showcased the best of community spirit, creativity, and teamwork, as participants raced along The Loop and through Oro Valley’s non-mechanized multi-use trails. Starting at Rillito Race Track on an unseasonably cold morning, the route passed directly past my office, which is conveniently located right on The Loop—a detail that stood out to me as I realized I’d forgotten my key. Without it, I missed the chance to duck in for coffee or cocoa, which, in hindsight, may have been a blessing. Had I warmed up inside, I might have skipped the rest of the morning entirely.

Tucson Medical Center (TMC), the event’s sponsor, brought a strong presence with multiple teams creatively named Run TMC. Corporate and community groups embraced the fun, with teams like PiRats, Crav’n Bac’n, and Legally Purple, the Tucson Tri-Girls’ tribute to their signature color. Caterpillar contributed with teams called Cats in the Rat, rounding out the playful spirit that made the event feel more like a celebration than a competition.

The course, divided into ten legs ranging from 2.76 to 7 miles, accommodated runners of all levels. With staggered start times, organizers ensured that most teams finished around the same time, making for a festive atmosphere at the finish line. The route itself was a perfect showcase of Tucson’s incredible outdoor infrastructure, highlighting The Loop and trails that wind through Oro Valley.

Despite the frigid temperatures, which left my fingers so numb I couldn’t feel the camera shutter, the energy of the event was undeniable. Watching teams cheer on their runners, seeing batons handed off with a mix of relief and excitement, and capturing moments of camaraderie made the cold more than worth it.

Events like this remind me why I love being part of the Tucson community. Whether it’s cycling, running, or just exploring the trails, the shared experiences and the connections we make are what keep me coming back. By Monday morning, I’m sure the runners weren’t boasting about their splits but sharing stories of the cold, the team names, and the joy of crossing the finish line together. It’s the kind of event that reminds you that the journey—whether on foot, bike, or behind a camera—is what truly matters.

http://thetucsonphotographer.smugmug.com/Sports/Running/RoadRunning/R-A-T–Relay—Run-Around-Tucson

Check out the 2023,2024, and 2025 RAT relay images

Today, I found myself on the patio at Beyond Bread, embarking on a project I’ve been planning for years: photographing every item on their menu. My lunch choice was the Avi Avo, a delicious combination of creamy avocado and balanced flavors. Normally, I’d seek out a quiet corner, but it was a chilly day, and there were only two tables basking in sunlight. For whatever reason—fate, alignment of the stars, or a little nudge from the universe—I chose a table closer to others than I typically would.

As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn’t help but overhear a couple at the next table. They were discussing their home in Washington, which had been sitting on the market far longer than they’d hoped. Their conversation drew me in, not intentionally, but because of my own background in real estate. Although I typically avoid involving myself in situations like this, especially when it’s outside my market, something compelled me to lean over and say, “Excuse me for interrupting…”

What followed was a wonderful exchange, touching on real estate, human behavior, and much more. The advice I shared with them is something I often recommend to clients in similar situations: if a property isn’t selling, reduce the price by 1% each week until it finds its buyer—or until you reach a price where you’re no longer comfortable selling. The key, I explained, is that when the price approaches the value buyers perceive, fear of loss outweighs the desire to wait for a better deal. It’s human nature—people are more motivated by the fear of missing out than by the hope of saving a bit more.

Steve, the husband, was particularly engaging. A financial advisor by trade, he immediately connected with this idea. In his own business, he’s seen how human nature drives decision-making, and the concept of loss aversion resonated deeply with him. The phrasing struck a chord with both of them: Fear of loss is a greater motivator than the opportunity to gain.

Meeting Nancy Juetten: A Lesson in Serendipity

The conversation didn’t stop with real estate or financial principles. Nancy Juetten, Steve’s wife, introduced herself as an author, blogger, and podcast consultant. Barely a week into my commitment to blogging every day, here I was speaking with someone who had built her career on storytelling and communication.

Nancy has published three books and runs a successful blog, getknowngetpaid.com  where she helps entrepreneurs craft compelling messages and grow their visibility. Her current business equips professionals to confidently land podcast interviews and share their expertise with the world. Through her work, she teaches the power of storytelling, clarity, and authentic connection—tools that resonate deeply with me as I navigate my own blogging journey.

The serendipity of our meeting was undeniable. As we spoke about writing, creativity, and reaching audiences, Nancy offered valuable insights about consistency and the courage it takes to show up authentically. She and Steve both struck me as people deeply in tune with the art of connecting—whether through financial advising, storytelling, or simply sharing a meal on a sunny patio.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much of life’s beauty comes from the unplanned. I arrived at Beyond Bread to kick off a personal project, yet I walked away with more than a photo of the Avi Avo. I left with a meaningful connection, an engaging conversation, and a reaffirmation of the power of showing up—both in life and in writing.

As Nancy and Steve reminded me, human nature shapes so much of what we do. Whether it’s pricing a home, crafting a story, or simply choosing the sunniest table on a chilly day, our decisions are often driven by the delicate balance of fear and opportunity. Sometimes, leaning into that balance—starting a conversation or making an adjustment—can lead to outcomes more rewarding than we ever imagined

Steve, the husband, was particularly engaging. A financial advisor by trade, he immediately connected with this idea. In his own business, he’s seen how human nature drives decision-making, and the concept of loss aversion resonated deeply with him. The phrasing struck a chord with both of them: Fear of loss is a greater motivator than the opportunity to gain.

On January 8, 2011, my life—and Tucson’s—changed forever. At the time, I was publishing several local newspapers, including the Marana Weekly News. My reporter Chuck Barth was supposed to be covering a “Congress on Your Corner” event with Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords at the Safeway at Ina and Oracle. Then came the call. There had been a shooting at the event. Chuck wasn’t answering his phone.

I grabbed my keys, loaded my bike onto the car, and drove toward the scene. Arriving 15 minutes after the tragedy, I found the area locked down tight. My press credentials and bike allowed me to get closer than most, right to the intersection where six people had lost their lives, and many others, including Congresswoman Giffords, had been gravely injured.

That day, Tucson became a national symbol of heartbreak—but also resilience. When President Obama visited in the aftermath, the words Together We Thrive became a rallying cry. Those words still guide me. Every year on January 8, I lead a ride to that Safeway to honor those we lost and to reflect on how I can help Southern Arizona thrive.

This year, I considered skipping the ride. The family of Christina-Taylor Green, the youngest victim, has asked to step back from public remembrances, which I deeply respect. Grief is personal, and their willingness to share their journey for so many years is something I’ll always admire. Despite my hesitation, I decided to continue the tradition on a chilly, windy morning. Though it wasn’t widely publicized, Kevin, Jorge, and I showed up and rode.

A Ride Filled with Reflection

The ride wasn’t just about remembering—it was about finding ways to move forward. We talked about solutions to community challenges, like homelessness along The Loop and how groups like El Tour de Tucson could partner with Tucson Clean and Beautiful to make a difference. We discussed the Hundred Acre Wood Bike Park, a promising project in an underserved area that’s now grappling with a large unhoused population. These issues require action, collaboration, and creativity, not just complaints.

We also dove into Arizona’s unique tax credit system, which allows residents to direct their taxes to charitable causes they’re passionate about. This is one of my favorite ways to empower individuals to support local organizations. From helping foster children to providing scholarships, it’s a tool for real change. I’m inspired to find even more ways to amplify its impact this year.

Introducing Ambaggadors

At the Safeway stop, I ran into Max Morris, founder of The Endurance Project. Our conversation led to the creation of a new initiative: Ambaggadors—cyclists who will distribute 1,000 backpacks filled with essentials like water, sunscreen, snacks, and more to Tucson’s unhoused population during the summer. It’s a simple yet powerful way to make a difference. To fund this effort, we’re forming a team for the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo race and launching a fundraiser. It’s exciting to see such a meaningful project come to life, and I’ll be writing more about this soon.

Accountability Through Action

As we pedaled back to the University Medical Center, where Gabrielle Giffords’ life was saved, we reflected on how to create a more connected and thriving Tucson. Craig, a fellow rider, shared his vision for nonprofits pooling resources to tackle shared challenges. Imagine multiple charities sharing equipment like barricades or even vehicles to maximize impact.

Accountability is central to my 2025 goals. Whether it’s advocating for safer bike lanes, raising awareness about community programs, or creating a Kindness Film Festival to support Ben’s Bells, I want to be part of the solution. Complaining without action is easy, but committing to change requires showing up, taking risks, and leading by example.

Why the Ride Matters

The Ride to Renew and Remember isn’t just about looking back—it’s about looking forward. It’s about honoring those we lost by working toward a better, kinder, more connected Tucson. The conversations we had this year reminded me that change begins with small, intentional steps, whether it’s repainting lines on a road to make biking safer, handing out backpacks to those in need, or simply thanking local leaders for what’s working while constructively addressing what’s not.

As I move forward with my goals for 2025, I’m inspired by the ride’s message: we thrive when we work together. Let’s commit to being part of the solution this year—on and off the bike.