He's a one-man entertainment center. He's my friend Tripp Doherty or Frank Doherty, as some in his intimate circle might know him. Our relationship began quite a number of years ago back in a place I referred to as the 'Lavender Palace' when I first took his spin class in Equinox Woodbury. He was nervous about my arrival knowing I might chronicle the goings on but he needn't have worried. I didn't quite know what to expect quite frankly. I had heard many wild narratives all heralding a type of ride that was "singular in nature." From that first blog post (if you care to look back) I can say unequivocally it was decidedly so! More about this man and his experiential ride later. To call him legendary might seem hyperbole to some but watching him this past Sunday in the place where he truly belongs, Life Time his following has grown exponentially from his humble beginnings in Equinox Westchester.
I've ridden in several thousand spin classes with many different instructors and written over 800 stories about a few of them. Some that didn't belong leading a class, some who were merely adequate, a few that were well schooled and a list that was less than five fingers that were truly brilliant in terms of inspiration, technical adroitness and charisma. Tripp Doherty filled two of those traits inspirational and charismatic. Technically adroit not so much but what trumped any other instructor in my experience and this makes Tripp idiosyncratic: his heart. Yes there is a short list and if you've read my blogs you know who they are but none of them thrill me to the marrow like Mr. Doherty does.
When I signed in as guest courtesy of my friend Pam Polestino and the aforementioned Tripper I got there early because it was the front row I needed to occupy. With his usual understatement upon my arrival I knew that his heart was leaping out of his chest because what we mean to each other is unbreakable. For my part my thoracic cavity was on fire hoping my lungs could keep up with the volcanic passion escaping with each passing breath. He did not disappoint. He was the Tripper I remembered only more so. The signature body gesticulations were all there. It all came flooding back to me as he started his animated hopping, his hoarse exhortations, and the scary on and off the bike, the genuflecting and his outstretched arms signifying unity. But now he's added something new! He's a disc jockey complete with light show. He had done that in a past life and now he's incorporating it into this new experience. He is truly a one-man entertainment center.
I will not forget this ride Tripp and as I watched your eyes fill up knowing how grateful you are to be in the life you are living and surrounded by so much love you are indeed in the right place and right time. The icing on your cake is your glorious life partner Janene an earth angel if there ever was one. Good luck my friend until we meet again.
Your friend,
Jack
