Patient Spotlight: Kevin Phillips

Kevin’s passion for cycling exemplifies fitness as a means to adventure. He has been racing and riding bikes for over 40 years with a very impressive racing palmarès (record of achievements). He’s an eight-time national champion and continues to race—and win—adding over 22 victories in just the last two years. However, the accomplishment that stands out most for me is when he set the master’s world record for the hour track race. The hour record attempt is a particularly grueling event, held on a velodrome where a solo rider, tucked in a radical aero position, rides as fast as possible for one hour. Kevin never wavered from that position, circling the track with such focus and power that it felt like watching poetry in motion.

I’ve been treating Kevin for hip alignment issues ever since a crash many years ago—and it’s been a great collaboration. Kevin researches, stretches, and trains with intention, and we use that information together to refine and tailor his treatments. That spirit of curiosity and commitment is a big part of what makes him not only a world-class athlete, but a great partner in the healing process.

Kevin has taken that elite fitness and transformed it into a platform for shared adventure. He’s led cycling trips down the California coast, through Vietnam, and across Europe. Some of my favorite riding experiences have come during his multi-day group trips from San Jose to Redondo Beach. One memory that stands out happened as we were rolling into Lompoc after a long day riding from Cambria. A few guys pushed the pace in some friendly competition, and not feeling it that day, I let the group ride away. A few minutes later, Kevin dropped back to ride alongside me and started chatting about how fun the trip had been and how beautiful the scenery was. I kept trying to push the pace to catch the group, but Kevin—still talking—gently reminded me there was no rush. We'd see them at the next stop. That’s Kevin. He’s the strongest rider out there, but he never needs to prove it—until the climbs, that is. Then, the next time you see him, he’s already at the top of the mountain, cheering everyone else on.

Today, Kevin’s greatest joy lies in coaching. As the owner and organizer of the Ironfly youth cycling team, he’s mentored two Olympians and over 25 junior national titleholders. He continues to inspire and guide old guys like me—and now, the next generation of riders too.

I know I’m just one of many people who have experienced the joy of cycling and the gift of community thanks to Kevin’s leadership.

Thanks, Kevin. See you in France.