Topekan Richard “Alex” Alexander has developed a rigid lifestyle that literally defies comprehension. At 89, Alex is pain free, devoid of any prescribed medicine, relies on a unique meatless diet, and adheres to a demanding workout routine. Alex cycles 18 miles-a-day (he is projected to complete over 6,200 miles for 2025). For Alex, every day begins promptly at 4:00am!
The foundation of Alex’s daily routine is his passion and lifetime commitment to cycling.
A retired bank regulator, Alex has been cycling for 77 years, dating back to 1948 when his father purchased Alex’s first bike -- a single-speed J.C. Higgins from Sears & Roebuck. His cycling escapades set him apart from all others who enjoy cycling. For example, on three separate occasions, he cycled 725 miles (Topeka to Hamilton, Ohio) simply to attend his high school reunions….feats that amazed his former schoolmates. Each trip required six days across five states (KS, MO, IL, IN, & OH) and included daylong rides up to 140 miles. Alex completed those cycling ventures for his 35th, 45th, and 50th high school reunions.
Cycling in Russia
While serving in the U.S. Navy, Alex was assigned to a three-year tour of duty with the American Embassy in Moscow where he enjoyed his regular routine by cycling around Gorky Park, through Red Square, and out to the Embassy’s dacha (country house) located some 25 miles outside Moscow. Cycling rules in Russia and the U.S. are very different, such as Russia prohibits cyclists making left turns. Alex vividly recalls committing this traffic violation, and being abruptly stopped by a “Moscow militiaman,” as Russian police officers are called. “Thankfully, I only received a stern warning and was allowed to proceed back to the embassy," Alex remembers.
“Moscow was an interesting assignment, and I took full advantage to cycle on a regular basis,” Alex said. “As a member of the U.S. embassy staff, I enjoyed diplomatic immunity and always felt protected by that ‘special status’ when outside the office.” Would he cycle the Russia countryside today given the current risk of arrest, wrongful conviction, and imprisonment in dire conditions? “Absolutely,” Alex responded without hesitation.
Cycling his age every birthday
His epic birthday rides have taken various forms and routes as he aged. On his 81st birthday, he cycled from Topeka to Leonardville, KS where he enjoyed a country dinner to partially restore the 5,000 calories burned enroute.
In 2016, after being the victim of a hit-and-run while cycling in east Topeka, Alex decided future birthday rides would be when vehicular traffic was safely lighter. Thus, for his 85th birthday, he launched his ride at one minute after midnight, and finished shortly before the heavy morning traffic.
During the past twenty years, Alex has only been in a hospital on two occasions, both the result of bicycle accidents. “Cycling is supposed to be a healthy outlet, but it can be hazardous due to careless and distracted motorists,” he explained.
Gravel cycling in Kansas
In search of safer cycling, Alex began riding on rural gravel roads surrounding Topeka. “Tractors, farm equipment, and pickups on gravel roads are far less threatening than speeding or distracted drivers on city paved roads,” he explained.
Now as a gravel-cycling enthusiast, he is one of the oldest cyclists ever to compete in the Unbound Gravel, a grueling endurance ride on gravel roads and cow paths through Kansas’ Flint Hills surrounding Emporia. The annual event, formally the Dirty Kanza, now referred to as Unbound Gravel, is considered the world’s premiere gravel event, with distances of 25, 50, 100, 200, and 350 miles.
Unbound Gravel annually attracts over 5,000 cyclists, including riders from each of the fifty U.S. states and some 40 foreign countries! Alex is listed among those passionate and gritty cyclists who dare to take on and conquer Kansas’ Flint Hills.
Alex will once again be in the field of elite cyclists this June for the Unbound Gravel challenge. “There is something special about this annual event,” he says. “And, to be the oldest cyclist competing in this worldly event is a distinct honor.”
“Inspiration to all of us.”
Chris Armstrong, manager of Capp’s Bike Shop in Topeka, describes Alex as “one of a kind” when it comes to cycling. “Alex is meticulous and very specific about his bikes and cycling equipment. He is willing to take on any challenge,” Armstrong stated. “Alex is an inspiration to all of us who enjoy the sport of cycling here in Topeka.”
"Alex is an inspiration to all of us who enjoy cycling."