Instead of stating my opinion of Clint's character, I'd rather present here an event from our shared history to allow his actions in specific situations create an image for the reader. The example below points not at the full range of his living expression but toward a particular qualitative application of vitality, which create through his actions the inimitable Clint Reynolds.
Clint Reynolds' Credence
In 2008 Clint, Chris Doyle and I flew to London to spend a week with Stew [Johnson] to film for "Anthem 2." John Dye of Bicycle Union was kind enough to put us up for the week and to act as our guide for touring around the London area. He rented a van to accommodate the five of us, with our bikes and camera equipment. To our misfortune, the rear compartment was without seats, completely separated from the front cabin, and there were no windows. On top of the unique van setup, Doyle's bike never showed up at the airport. He was able to acquire a frame with all the components he needed. I don't recall exactly what the issue was, but something about the new crank set wasn't sitting right with Doyle. Stew offered up his own cranks for a temporary trade, which left only the task of swapping them out to get our show on the road.
To save time Clint Reynolds offered to act as bike mechanic on the way to a cement park about an hour away. Clint's job was to switch out the cranks in the back of a van, while it was driving to the park, with no seating and no windows. This exchange was to be done in a situation with the elements of a moving vehicle, no proper seating, and with as little illumination as a moonless night. What I recall from the drive, as another quarantined passenger, were attempts at alleviating my nausea by changing my body position while I heard a frequent clank, clink and chime of metal striking metal in the ubiquitous dark. Having arrived at our destination the back doors opened, daylight transformed us and Clint appeared triumphant. All that was left were a few finishing turns on some bolts to call the job complete. And the trip begun.
We realize this has nothing at all to do with Clint's bike check, but it is pretty hilarious.
Use a Facebook account to add a comment, subject to Facebook's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Your Facebook name, photo & other personal information you make public on Facebook will appear with your comment, and may be used on ESPNâs media platforms. Learn more