Hanging up my helmet

[Verkade45]

As some of you know, this year was going to be my last full year racing the GNCC’s. With plans on hitting a few close ones, there are things in life that we have missed out or put on hold for racing. Racing has been a huge part of my life, being born into it, everything in my life revolves around it. Whether it be different house renovations, vacations, even jobs. There comes a point in life when you need to move on. Well, the black clouds always seem to follow me where ever I go.

With racing for over 20 years now, it has finally caught up with my body. They just aren’t aches and pains and pops and grinds anymore. After the TN race, while going to my usual after race visit with my chiropractor, my biggest fears have come true. With Aleve finally not cutting it anymore, it is finally time to see an Orthopedic Specialist. The severe beating that my shoulders have taken over the years, and I’m sure getting stuck in that lovely TN mud didn’t help much either, the pain is unbearable. We pull into the parking lot and this is what we see:







I was going to put one of my GNCC stickers up, but there was always someone in the parking lot staring at me. So, after the examination, and after one MRI (cause the darn insurance company won’t pay for both to be done at the same time) prognosis is torn Labrum in both left and right shoulders. With my physical ability, heat/cold and over the counter medicine not doing anything, only solution is, I have to go for arthroscopic surgery. The recovery time pretty long, and the doctor wants to do one; get it 100% before moving onto the next one.

This leaving me with making the biggest decision in my life. I’m not sure when I’m going to be having surgery yet, but I have been told by two of my doctors that I’m not a loud to race or even ride till I’m 100% better. I think the worst part is, I haven’t been seriously hurt enough that is made me stop racing. Even when I was in a cast for 15.5 weeks; I broke it the last race of the season and got it off right before the first of the next season. Heck, I have had tree branches to the face and still finished. This is the first time that I physically can’t. But it’s not like I have a cast or can’t move my arms. It’s the fact that doing more damage to my body, that can seriously affect me later in life that. As some my friends have told me, my health is not worth trying to keep racing.

With that being said, I guess this is my farewell. It has been an AWESOME journey with amazing memories. I have made so many great friends and still plan on being involved with the racing community as well as making it to a couple to cheer on my friends. Don’t worry Jen; I’m coming to Ironman to be your Co-Pilot in the Razor!!! I heard Daryl, he said ok!!! I might not have achieved a lifetime goal of being GNCC Women’s Champ, but I do have a Women’s class win, morning overall win (even with a victory lap), 2 podium finishes, and the memories that will never leave me. So, to my husband, my family, friends, fans, and sponsors I can’t thank you enough for the support you have given me all these years. I couldn’t have done it without you!! I guess you can say, I'm hanging up helmet........for now!!

Remember, Ride hard, Have fun, and Be Safe!!

[Lurkin]

we'll be thinking of you stef, you will be missed.

[V-powered 730]

Damn Stef. Really hate to hear that. We've always enjoyed talking to you and Jan at the races. You will be missed.

[west coast chop]

you will be missed ...

[QuadRacer041]

Just heeled up, i'm sure you'll get the itch next season.

[wolfie]

Listen to your docs. Gonna miss your column.... I've never had as much fun riding in a car for hours on end as you have

[crayfz]

Originally Posted by V-powered 730

Damn Stef. Really hate to hear that. We've always enjoyed talking to you and Jan at the races. You will be missed.

[flynbryan19]

VERY bummed to hear the time has come, but heard you speaking of it at Steele Creek. Its been a pleasure to meet you this year and you(and Shanna) have been alot of fun to be around. Its disappointing to hear we won't see ya at the races anymore, but as you said, this hobby isn't worth your health.

I've enjoyed your presence and hope to see you again whenever you get the chance.

[cbithell]

You have me in tears.... I completely understand and support your decision. I am just sad, as i know your heart will always be at the track. You will be missed by everyone who's ever met you. You come from a good strong family and i'm sure you will heal quickly! Keep us posted Sweetie.... Love and Hugs, Cheryl Chris & Jamie Bithell

[gbcap]

sad to see it happen, but you will love your new life almost as much. I know taking this year off has helped me reconnect with alot of people/activities that i was not able to do while racing. the time spent in the garage and on the road is fun, but you miss so much at home!