David Hislop is one of the more recognisable faces on the indoor rowing circuit. As well as racing at as many events as possible, David is the organiser of the Scottish IRC in Stranraer, and, under the nom de keyboard, 'Roadrunner' is one of the most prolific posters on the Concept2 Forum (http://www.therowingcompany.com/forum). David's recently reached a significant milestone in his life, and his wife Kay sent in the following letter: As some of you may know, David 'Roadrunner' Hislop reached the grand old age of 50 on 2nd December. I am aware that many people would view this with some trepidation as all you can see ahead is wrinkles, grey hair and Saga holidays, but David was delighted, excitedly crossing the days off his calendar until the big day. I couldn't understand his delight as I was greatly traumatised when I hit 40, but then of course I'm not a rower and I wasn't moving into a new age category.Some women may be suspicious when their husband disappears in the early hours of the morning. Waking up at 5am to look across at his empty side of the bed and imagine him sleepwalking or crumpled in a heap on the floor somewhere but, now I know better, I roll over and go back to sleep�he's on the rowing machine! In the dark but for the light from a small inspection lamp.Yes, I know it's good for him, but he makes me look fat, and as he has no padding of his own left, he has to travel everywhere with his seat pad.Then the dilemma, what do we get him for this momentous coming of age? I have often heard him say how much easier it would be to get to competitions if we lived closer to an airport and, as those of you who have visited our neighbourhood know�we don't, although there is an old military airbase nearby with a runway that can be used by light aircraft. A flying lesson later and problem solved!