The Journey of an Overachieving Retiree: Conquering the World Championships in Austria
Leon Malmed, the indefatigable 85-year-old cyclist, thrives on the challenge of scaling mountains, leaving younger riders in awe of his performance.
At first glance, they may mistake his sleek carbon-fiber ride for an e-bike, but a closer look reveals the truth.
Cycling was Malmed’s Plan B after retiring as a Silicon Valley marketing executive in 2000.
Having tried and failed as a golfer in a retirement golf community, he discovered his true passion on two wheels.
The article headers into the extraordinary story of a man who, at 66, included cycling, resisted the character, and is now gearing up to conquer the 2023 World Masters Cycling Championships in St. Johann, Austria.
From Golf to audax: A astonishing adventure
When Malmed first joined a cycling club’s casual weekend ride at the age of 66, he was taken aback by the sight of grown men donning neon spandex and the thought of spending $1,500 on a bike.
His cycling experiences were limited to his teenage years with a cruiser bike. Initially, he struggled to keep pace with the group on a clunky old road bike, but the camaraderie drew him in.
His friend’s generosity provided him with a lighter bike, despite its three sizes too big frame, Malmed not only kept pace but excelled at climbing.
Within a year, he invested a few thousand dollars in a top-of-the-line bike.
Biking brought him a profound sense of happiness and freedom, tapping into an energy he didn’t know he possessed.
Rejuvenation Through Cycling: Fitness at Any Age
Malmed’s demanding career allowed little time for exercise, but in his 50s, he discovered tango, waltz, and occasional tennis matches.
By training with younger riders and dedicating time to cycling, he rebuilt his strength and endurance.
Remarkably, he started competing in races at the age of 78, notching multiple Masters national titles.
His sights are now set on the 2023 World Masters Cycling Championships in Austria, where he plans to prove once again that age is just a number.
The Intensity of Malmed’s Workout
Each morning, Malmed engages in a routine that includes 35 sit-ups and 35 push-ups. Twice a week, he joins his wife for mat Pilates, which he finds essential for maintaining a healthy back, especially after being hunched over a bike.
His training is centered around his South Lake Tahoe, Calif. home, where he rides solo several days a week, often with a riding partner to chase.
Group rides are a vital part of his routine, spanning 20 to 50 miles. He also dedicates 30 to 45 minutes, two to three times a week, to his Peloton.
During June through October, he actively participates in weekly races hosted by his local cycling club, often competing against riders as young as teenagers.
Conquering the Steepest Roads: From Maui to Austria
Malmed’s passion for cycling extends beyond races.
He takes his bike on vacation and conquers challenging terrains.
During his visits to Maui, he tackles one of the longest and steepest paved roads on the planet, leading to Haleakala Crater.
This ride spans over 10,000 feet and 36 miles, a monumental achievement for any cyclist.
Donnie Arnoult, owner of Maui Cyclery, acknowledges Malmed as the oldest client to complete this daunting ride.
Notably, Malmed’s commitment to cycling persisted even during a wildfire evacuation, as he immediately reached out to Arnoult upon hearing news of the Maui fires.
The Power of Diet and Nutrition
After overcoming prostate cancer five years ago, Malmed transitioned to a pescatarian diet, a significant shift from his previous meat and potatoes preference.
He allows himself the indulgence of cheese every other week, with a preference for Maroilles, a flavorful French cheese.
His breakfast routine includes low-sugar cereal topped with blueberries, sliced banana, and a Brazilian nut.
For lunch, he opts for tuna salad or smoked salmon with tomatoes, lettuce, and radishes, accompanied by a slice of multigrain bread and a piece of fruit.
At home, his wife, hailing from Colombia, prepares rice and beans with fish and vegetable soups.
In preparation for races, pasta takes a prominent place in his pre-race meals.
The Gear of a Seasoned Cyclist
Malmed’s commitment to cycling extends to his choice of equipment, ensuring he’s equipped for top performance.
His road bike, a Trek Emonda SLR 9 carbon road bike worth $13,000, equipped with Continental Grand Prix 5000 S TR tires ($100 each), and his mountain bike, a Pivot Cycles Trail 429 ($6,000), showcase his dedication.
His Bontrager XXX bike shoes ($420) and Bontrager Velocis MIPS helmet ($225) complete his gear, making sure he’s well-prepared for every ride.
Conclusion
Leon Malmed’s inspirational journey from a retiree seeking a hobby to a competitive cyclist defying age norms is a testament to the power of passion and dedication.
His story serves as a source of motivation for individuals of all ages, demonstrating that with determination and a love for the sport, anyone can achieve remarkable feats, regardless of the hurdles they face.
As he prepares for the 2023 World Masters Cycling Championships in Austria, Malmed’s story continues to inspire and captivate, proving that age is merely a number on the road to greatness.
