Who We Are MCBC Welcomes Sandy Allen to Staff
We are delighted to have Sandy Allen join MCBC as our Administrative Assistant. Responsible for the administration of the day-to-day operations of MCBC, Sandy is excited to work with our volunteers and support all aspects of the organization.
Growing up an Army brat, Sandy has lived all over the United States. Moving to Marin County in 2011 she has enjoyed hiking with her dog, volunteering for Wildcare and cycling all over Northern California. Prior to joining MCBC Sandy owned a jewelry store in Sausalito for nine years, sold real estate in San Diego, managed web services for Total Gym, and worked as marketing director for a corporate relocation company. We are thrilled to have Sandy join the team! We asked Sandy to tell us a little more about herself and why she rides!
What kind of bicycle(s) do you ride?
I have a road bike, two cruisers and I’m really excited about a new gravel bike coming soon!
What do you like best about riding?
Riding bikes was something I did every day with my friends growing up. As kids it gave us freedom to explore and to be independent. I think cycling still has the sense of being independent from the hectic world around us. It gives you time to slow down instead of just racing from one appointment/errand to the next.
What do you like best about the benefits of riding your bike?
It’s great exercise. I like challenging myself to try new things. I got back into riding bikes after completing my first marathon. It was great to mix up the two sports and find new friends while out having fun.
What would you have liked someone to tell you when you started?
It’s fun, just get out and enjoy the ride. You can go as fast or slow as you want. If you have a goal to complete a distance ride you can absolutely achieve it. One of my first distance rides was the Chico Wildflower. I probably could have trained a little more, but I finished and had a great time along the way!
Where is your favorite place to ride your bike?
I like riding around town to do errands. When I lived in Sausalito, I rode my bike to work. It makes me feel a little more connected to the community.
What is your favorite ride/route in Marin County?
I love the Paradise loop from Sausalito. It started to get a little boring until someone suggested I do it backwards. Now it’s two routes, both of which are my favorites!
What part of riding would you most like to improve?
More options to ride that are closed to or separate from car traffic. When I started riding, I would drive to Cañada Rd on Sundays – it’s closed for a good portion of the day to cars. I could practice clipping in and out and had some space to learn.
What is your vision of bicycling in the future?
A better shared space for cars and bicycles. Traffic patterns that allow for everyone to get to their destination safely. Also, to have everyone respect each other’s right to be on the road.
