Making Magic At The LandRun 100 - A Photo Essay

May 9, 2016

A brief moment of self-indulgence por favor.

There was a time in my life when I was an actual photographer, meaning that is what I was paid to do on a daily basis. My camera was with me all the time and for some years it almost felt like an extension of myself. It became part of me. Exposure adjustments were made without looking at the knobs because my fingers knew where they were and what small motion was necessary. I could change a roll of film in a few seconds flat on a moments notice. I looked at the world with different eyes. The camera just felt right in my hands. I don’t play a musical instrument but I can imagine what it must be like from those days in my photography career.

When I stopped playing my instrument the images I created stopped carrying much of a tune. I suppose that is to be expected.

You may never forget how to ride a bike once you learn, but that doesn’t mean you’ll stay fit or fast if you stop riding, right?

I bring this up because magic can still happen and for my camera and I it did this past March at the LandRun 100 in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

The LandRun is put on by Bobby and Crystal Wintle, the owners of District Bicycles, and their fine group of staff, friends, and community members. They pour out the passion and that passion creates magic.

The magic of riders and runners challenging themselves to reach for big, sometimes very intimidating goals. The magic of not giving up, but instead digging deep, conquering or even just surviving. The magic of sharing themselves in that moment and then celebrating the others all around them.

All of that is powerful magic, and the world can certainly use more of it. My thanks to Bobby and Crystal and all who took part or helped them with this year’s LandRun 100. I hope you enjoy these images because it was a magical day for me as well. On with the show...