Beyond the pain, heat, and discomfort, it's all for the cause!

3,650 riders. $1.5 Million dollars donated. 1500 miles traveled just to get to the starting line. The toughest ride I have ever had.

Just imagine a sea of riders 3,650 strong. We numbered close to 100 of those riders. The Clear Channel Cycling Team, was the third highest fundraising team to start the ride.

This years start was like a shot out of a cannon. We were pacing about 20mph through the first two breakpoints. Typically on the first day you have no wind but have to fight the hills. This year turned out to be different. From nowhere a headwind found us. Suddenly I was down to 14mph average and the heat began to build. I’ve never seen so many people treated for dehydration. So many riders just depleted of moisture that they couldn’t go on. As we forged ahead we did the best we could to keep the fluids in and pumping.

My computer maxed out at 118 degrees. I checked with a fellow rider who said his was at 114. Bottom line, it was HOT! Last years rain was nothing compared to the extreme heat, slow pace, fight to stay hydrated and the desire to get out f the seat. To be honest, if it weren’t for the support of everyone who donated and those I was riding for, I seriously considered sagging in and calling it a day. For what should have been a 6.5 hour trip we found ourselves on the bike riding in around 8 + hours after we began the journey.

The party in Beeville was wonderful! So many people to see. It felt like one large family. All the riders together. Everyone joined by the passion to ride for MS.

It was difficult getting back in the saddle again on Sunday. At about 135 miles my computer died. I didn’t even know my speed. We knew there would be a head wind for the day, but after battling one the day before, it took every ounce of energy to make the ride. More heat. More Sun. More physical toile.

I crossed the line at 12:05, sunburned, sun poisoned, sprained knee, and saddle sores. Never before has this ride taken so much out of me. There were 12 year veterans who agreed it was the toughest MS150 they had done. The good thing is we all agreed it was worth it and will do it again.

Thank you to Heather, Karlen, and Tara for the honor of riding for them. I hope one day we don’t have to ride for this any more. Bob and Pat I don’t know how I would have made this all work out without your help. Everyone who donated, be proud. You are helping to make a difference. Thank you Kris for making the trip. I know it will all pay off when we ride out of Fresno in the spring.

If you have not yet made a donation, please consider it. You can donate at http://ms150.org/b2b/donate/donate.cfm?id=170999 through next month. I have approximately $2,000 and would like to add just another $500 if possible. For those of you in my $100 club, your photos will be in the mail with in the week.

I promise to be back in touch soon. There is so much going on and I promise my efforts with the MS Society have only just begun. Keep your eyes posted for more information.

To all of you. Be Well, Be Healthy, and most of all Be Happy!