Today is Cinco de Mayo. On this date in 1862, a poorly-equipped and badly-outnumbered Mexican army defeated their French counterparts at Puebla.
Although the victory is commemorated, this date is not a major holiday in Mexico. But that doesn't stop the diaspora in the US and other countries from turning it into a celebration of their native land's culture and heritage*. And it doesn't stop other Americans, including ones who are about as Mexican as I am (which is to say not at all, at least to my knowledge!) from joining in the festivities--which, in some towns, include bicycle rides.
Of course, we all know that--if you'll pardon a paraphrase of the person who did more than anyone else to disgrace cycling--that it's not about the ride. I mean, what better excuse for a nice hearty feast of tacos or whatever else you like than a couple of hours of pedaling.
*--At least it makes more sense (to me, anyway) than making Columbus Day a celebration of Italian pride. I say that as someone whose heritage is half Italian.
