Meet Philip! Philip’s been cycling for a few decades, but the thing is, it just doesn’t get old.
Cyclist: Philip Herman
Cycling team: H-E-B Cycling Team
L’Étape San Antonio by Tour de France distance: 100 miles
"Even though I've been cycling for over 36 years now, every day I’m blessed to be on the bike feels like the first time I rode when I was young. I still have that happy smile, that will to go as fast as I can, and that desire to give people a little awe and inspiration to try their best in life, cyclist or not. I often think about that Robin Williams quote on why he loved cycling so much: 'Riding a bicycle is the closest thing to flying.' That is one of the reasons I love to ride my bike.
On January 1st, 1985, I made a New Year’s resolution that I was going to ride 150 miles in less than 12 hours—from downtown Corpus Christi to downtown San Antonio to support Simona, a wonderful mother who lost her battle to kidney disease. I’ve been riding ever since and having the time of my life riding with my family of cyclists.
Over the years, I have met so many people through recreational and commuter cycling. I have met people from all over the world that took the time to stop and say hi to me—I’ve had the chance to see their faces light up when I tell them how far I traveled that day or how fast I went! I hope I brightened their day because they certainly brightened mine!
Being part of a great team has also been one of my favorite parts of cycling. My company, H-E-B, and the H-E-B Bike Team have been very supportive to the cycling community in Texas. They are instrumental in helping us support so many worthwhile charity rides and cycling events in our region and throughout the state of Texas!
Now that 36 years have passed, I’m still riding with that same smile on my face and determination to live my best life while I can! I gave so much to the cycling community over the years, from charity events, to escorting joggers, to commuting to work to reduce carbon emissions. The amazing thing: the cycling community has given me so much more than I could ever give back. From the smiles of caring people, to a new understanding of humanity I never would have had if I didn’t ride. That is the essence of cycling—you are never alone when you’re part of the worldwide community of cyclists, making a difference in the world one pedal stroke at a time. It really doesn’t matter my age, my race, my gender, or my economic status; I am just part of the humanity of cyclists all over the world!”
Join Philip on April 10th!