When our small group came together, and decided to feature mountain bike riders, the only name that
came up when we were deciding who would be first was Ken Doss.
If you were to look up impressive or remarkable in the dictionary you would likely see a description of
Ken.
We all feel very fortunate to have met and know this man and hope you can have the chance to meet and get
to know him very soon.
Ken retired from the Pittston Companies in 1994 - working 44 years with two years service in the army during
the Korean War era. He was a heavy equipment operator and if operated that equipment like he does his bike, it would
have been worth watching him do even that.
Ken bought his first mountain bike twenty years ago. He tells us it was a Schwinn High Sierra.
He now has several bikes and rides a Cannondale. Recently, he purchased a Trek 5200 road bike. Ken does not confine
himself to just the mountain trails he loves so much to ride.
Ken will tell you he loves to ride because he likes the challenge of the woods by himself, he likes to see
what he can do, riding only to beat himself. When asking those who have ridden with him about his riding we received
comments like "a hard man to keep up with", and "he will set the pace".
Ken has ridden in about 10 states but really loves riding the WV Hills of home.
Ken has not restricted is activities on the roads and trails to biking. He has competed in both 50
and 100 mile running races at altitudes. Some of these runs began at 6000' and ended at 11,000' !! He has competed
in races at Squaw Valley and Lake Tahoe to named just two locations.
Anita, Ken's wife of over 50 years bikes with him and also ran in races with him. Ken has two sons
and two grandchildren - they all ride.
This year on August 6, a tradition continues. This is the 11th. year of the birthday ride. As
close a possible to his birthday a ride is held on the Greenbrier River Trail and on adjoining trails. A mile goes by
for each year of his age - this year the ride cover 72 miles. That's right, Ken is 72 this August.
There will be more information on the Ken Doss Birthday Ride on this site as plans come together as well
as other contacts so you can get all the information you want about the ride. You are invited & welcome to join
the ride each year.
When you get the chance to meet Ken, by all means, ride with him, but also talk with him. He is friendly
and will want to get to know you, too. He is truly one of the most impressive, remarkable, and inspiring people you
will ever meet.
We feature Ken because of his riding skills, his willingness to help others learn, his friendliness, his
friendship, and because of the enjoyment of being around him and Anita.
The fact that he will be 72 this year - well, that's just a bonus, he would be remarkable at any age.
