"Get on with it," was one of Mike Walden's favorite phrases. He'd talk to a rider about a training program and then order them to "get on with it." He'd analyze a student's style, suggest ways to change and would then expect then to "get on with it." With that in mind, we too are getting on with it.
Mike Walden's death at age 78 on February 12 1996 left a huge void in many of our lives and presented a challenge. He had developed the framework for his school to continue without him-the task is now ours.
Mike was not only a world class coach of world class racers-he was a world class guy. He loved the sport. He loved to make people better at it. He took particular joy in developing the potential that sometimes only he could see. He enjoyed working with the rank amateur as much if not more than the Category 1 racer. He liked to put out a challenge and teach you something in the process. He never stopped being analytical or learning or thinking about this sport and how to make a better bicyclist out of you. He produced over 100 National champions and 10 World Champions from his Wolverine Sports Club.
He was also a pioneer, running training camps decades ago. He knew the importance of a good foundation and he put his heart into building one - not only for you as a cyclist, but for his school as well.
Indeed, of all the things he did, Mike's most cherished legacy was his school. He expects you to leave the Walden School of Cycling as a better rider with confidence that comes from knowing your strengths and weaknesses, from keeping your log accurate, from little things like "chewing your food." You will hear a lot about Mike in your week at camp - because even though Mike is gone he is still very much with us, pushing us and you together to "get on with it."