Member Spotlight: Dionne Philipp
Dionne Philipp began her adult cycling career almost 25 years ago. She and her late husband enjoyed riding together. When illness halted his riding, Dionne’s fell off as well (no pun intended), although she continued to commute to work by bike. After he passed away, Dionne saw others enjoying the outside on their bikes and got motivated to saddle up again.
So, even without a training partner, she signed up for STP. She said knowing that she’s too cheap to pay a registration fee and then skip the event, it seemed to be the perfect motivation. And it was. With STP in her back pocket, Dionne was back in the groove. About a year later, during the pandemic, a friend invited Dionne on an informal ride that happened to be organized by a PBC member. Dionne enjoyed the ride and camaraderie and joined the club. ✎
Dionne’s cycling résumé includes such major events as the Bike MS and Reach the Beach fundraisers, gravel riding, and a bike tour in Italy. Of bike touring, Dionne said, “Cycling is the perfect pace for travel. Hiking is too slow and limiting, and touring by car is too fast. Cycling allows me to cover a reasonable distance at a slow enough pace to enjoy the scenic views. I often stop to take photos and have met other travelers who appreciate my keen eye for interesting sights.”
Now that she’s retired, Dionne’s cycling has morphed from 30-minute daily commutes to more leisurely riding. Although as a commuter she rode in all sorts of weather, now she claims to be a “fair weather rider,” adding, “I have a limit of how long I’m willing to be uncomfortable.” Her “sweet spot” ride is 30-40 miles with an ideal pace of 16-17 MPH on the flats. She enjoys riding Division across the river and returning through Troutdale.
I asked Dionne about advice she’d offer other cyclists. Recounting the time she showed up to a gravel camp with a wholly unsuitable bike, she emphasized the importance of having the appropriate equipment. She also quipped, “I’m directionally challenged, so I won’t leave home without my GPS navigation. Dionne also passed along advice she received about hill climbing, “Slow down, don’t wear yourself out. Go as slowly as you need to…to keep going…just as long as you don’t tip over.” As someone who struggles on inclines, I’m taking this advice to heart, as has Dionne.
Finally, I asked Dionne what others would be surprised to learn about her. First, she says that while she seems shy at first and doesn’t like to talk when she rides, she’s not as quiet as one would think, once she gets to know you. She added that she enjoys crafting and cooking, and has an impressive collection of cookbooks.
If you meet Dionne on the road, ask her about her travels. She has lots of tales to tell.
Julia Surtshin, Club Member