Monday, May 31, 2010
Eureka, NV
The whole team made it into Eureka with great success! We are all doing fantastic and we're beginning to work as a well oiled machine. We are riding in pace lines and helping each other through the long hauls. I am so proud to be part of this experience and we're just getting the momentum going.
A big kudos to the folks who are supporting us. I can only imagine the nightmare organizing the logistics of moving us cross the US. Everyday we are improving and I can't wait to see how well we are performing when we roll into Virginia!
I haven't been able to post many pics due to a weak cell signal which won't allow for large files. I'll try after I post this.
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A big kudos to the folks who are supporting us. I can only imagine the nightmare organizing the logistics of moving us cross the US. Everyday we are improving and I can't wait to see how well we are performing when we roll into Virginia!
I haven't been able to post many pics due to a weak cell signal which won't allow for large files. I'll try after I post this.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Austin, NV
We arrived in Austin, NV after a grueling 111 mile ride across the desert! I have never done anything as physically demanding in my entire life. The last two miles were a steep uphill and I have no idea where I got the will to make it.
Last night the town of Fallon, NV hosted us and the people were great! The local American Legion grilled some burgers and dogs. I am running on fumes and need to eat and hit the hay. Tomorrow is 60 miles to Eureka.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Last night the town of Fallon, NV hosted us and the people were great! The local American Legion grilled some burgers and dogs. I am running on fumes and need to eat and hit the hay. Tomorrow is 60 miles to Eureka.
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Saturday, May 29, 2010
Fallon
Things are running smooth. We got into Fallon, NV 3 or 4 hours early. It might be because Scott, Andrew and I set up a pace line (one rider leads the others follow close so they can draft) and cruised the last 30 miles at around 20 mph. We rode hard and now I'm beat and writing this while my roommate Scott snores away! Tomorrow we do our first century ride (over 100 miles). I can't wait!
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Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Friday, May 28, 2010
Carson City, NV
We are in a new state. We crossed the border this morning from CA to NV. We were escorted by the Douglas County Sherrif's Department from the California border into Nevada. Thanks to Captain Duffy! After Spooner summit the Nevada Highway Patrol took over and escorted us to the state capitol where we were greeted by Gov. Jim Gibbons and his staff. Once again the folks were wonderful! If I can find a wifi signal, I'll update the blog with some pictures.
Tomorrow we are heading into Fallon, NV starting at 7:00 am. I was asked to do a CNN interview on Sunday and I am contemplating doing it, however, it is our first 100+ mile day and I don't want to miss that! What to do... what to do...
Tomorrow we are heading into Fallon, NV starting at 7:00 am. I was asked to do a CNN interview on Sunday and I am contemplating doing it, however, it is our first 100+ mile day and I don't want to miss that! What to do... what to do...
We're off!
The weather cleared up and we're off to Carson City! We are going to wait till the ice on the roads melts bit at least we'll be moving east. We are all begining to complain that we're getting out of shape from the wonderfully delicious meals provided to us.
I'll give my next update from Carson City.
I'll give my next update from Carson City.
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Thursday, May 27, 2010
Lake Tahoe
I wrote two blog posts and lost them both! That's the break when updating via blackberry. Last night a local restaurant donated pounds and pounds of pasta. Two days in Tahoe is feeling like a restful week. I think we are going to be well prepared to ride on to Carson City, NV tomorrow.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Fox News
Here is a direct link to the news interview Mark and I did:
http://www.fox40.com/videobeta/a7e733fb-60ac-4697-8e7e-faec7ebaad5b/News/Bike-Ride-To-Honor-Vets
http://www.fox40.com/videobeta/a7e733fb-60ac-4697-8e7e-faec7ebaad5b/News/Bike-Ride-To-Honor-Vets
2 Days in Tahoe
We had to push into Lake Tahoe last night because a snow storm shut down the roadway. It's springtime I thought! Well as a result, we have two days to recoup after yesterday's 7000 foot climb! The hot tub at the lodge was very popular.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
WiFi at 5,000 ft
I am writing now because I found a wifi hotspot at the Dew Drop fire department during lunch. We woke up early and hit our first "all day uphill." We were treated well in Jackson and had a great night sleep. I had my first "bonk" at around 4,000 feet. I felt my blood sugar drop like the stock market. A couple of Cliff Bars and a bunch of water, I felt better and pushed on.
There is lots of talk about a storm approaching. We are concerned about the forecast of 6" of snow. Road bikes, snow and plows don't mix!
A group of school kids greeted us from a hill side. I had to stop and get their picture. One preschooler asked if I was the best "bicycler" in the world. To which I answered, "yes!"
I'll try to stay blogging as long as I can find the internet. If I don't update in a few days, keep checking, I will when I can.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
There is lots of talk about a storm approaching. We are concerned about the forecast of 6" of snow. Road bikes, snow and plows don't mix!
A group of school kids greeted us from a hill side. I had to stop and get their picture. One preschooler asked if I was the best "bicycler" in the world. To which I answered, "yes!"
I'll try to stay blogging as long as I can find the internet. If I don't update in a few days, keep checking, I will when I can.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Monday, May 24, 2010
Limited Internet/Interview Links
I have limited internet/reception on my blackberry so my posts might be delayed. That's what happens when you start hitting the mountains! I have sent some updates but they are currently in my blackberry outbox waiting for a better signal (I'm on the hotel computer).
Here are the links for the interviews today:
http://www.fox40.com/news/fox40_live/ (click on Bike Ride to Honor Vets)
http://www.capradio.org/programs/programdetail.aspx?showid=7886
I'll be in touch soon!
Here are the links for the interviews today:
http://www.fox40.com/news/fox40_live/ (click on Bike Ride to Honor Vets)
http://www.capradio.org/programs/programdetail.aspx?showid=7886
I'll be in touch soon!
Fantastic Day!
We started in Sacramento and headed east to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains! But first I did interviews with Fox News and NPR. I had a blast. It was so cool getting on TV and radio and getting the message out. We ate lunch at a vineyard and ate dinner at Jackson American Legion. We ended our day with a police escort by the Jackson chief of police in a 1967 classic police car. People are being so nice to us and all the support is appreciated!
Press Press Press
We've had a fun day of press interviews today. Check out Fox 40 Sacramento's website for the info and capradio.org/insight for the link to today's podcast.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The End of Day Two
We had another fantastic day on the roads of California! We had some great hill training about 30 miles prior to Sacramento and even some preparation for riding the flat terrain. We are still working out some kinks that are expected when a group of strangers come together and are asked to perform.
Dinner (pictured below) was prepared for us at a local Catholic Church. It was so amazing to see the amount of work and preparation these folks put into feeding us! It really tugs at your heart and makes me realize why we are doing this feat.
Tomorrow were doing some interviews for Fox and some local radio stations. It should be a good time but I'll be glad to get back on the road.
Dinner (pictured below) was prepared for us at a local Catholic Church. It was so amazing to see the amount of work and preparation these folks put into feeding us! It really tugs at your heart and makes me realize why we are doing this feat.
Tomorrow were doing some interviews for Fox and some local radio stations. It should be a good time but I'll be glad to get back on the road.
Good Morning Day 2
5 AM came very early today! My body isn't agreeing with my motivation but I was expecting that with the first week. I went outside to drop my bags off for our FANTASTIC young interns and got a taste of today's "chill factor." I can't wait to get riding because the more we ride the better trained we get and the less aches and pains we endure!
I forgot to mention I ate dinner with Jennifer Brusstar, CEO of the Tug McGraw Foundation, and she was telling me all about the wonderful work they are doing for individuals living with PTSD/TBI. I want to thank her for her donation to world team sports on my behalf. I hope to keep in close contact with her foundation for years to come!
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I forgot to mention I ate dinner with Jennifer Brusstar, CEO of the Tug McGraw Foundation, and she was telling me all about the wonderful work they are doing for individuals living with PTSD/TBI. I want to thank her for her donation to world team sports on my behalf. I hope to keep in close contact with her foundation for years to come!
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Day # 1
Today was busy to say the least! We rode for 12 hours (7 of actual riding) and covered almost 80 miles of California. We started across the Golden Gate, headed through the country side with our tour guide Robin Williams, and ended in Napa Valley. It was chilly, windy, and rainy (at the end) but I had a blast! The folks I am riding with are such amazing people and I am so glad I have the opportunity to get to know them.
After a HOT shower, I am ready to hit the pillow!
After a HOT shower, I am ready to hit the pillow!
Friday, May 21, 2010
And we're off!
Another great day out here in SF! We had a busy day with our final preparations before we shove off at 7 AM. We had a great banquet with good food and speakers. To our surprise, Robin Williams showed up and stayed for dinner! He's a super nice guy and will be joining us for our first leg of the journey!
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
wheel dipping group.jpg
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
wheel dipping.jpg
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Amazing
My official day one was amazing! It was a day to really get to know the riders and talk about our experiences overseas. I'm looking forward to getting to know these people even better over the next few months.
As you can see below, we did some sightseeing around SF. The highlight was Alcatraz! I'll see if I can get a good pic tomorrow.
As you can see below, we did some sightseeing around SF. The highlight was Alcatraz! I'll see if I can get a good pic tomorrow.
Courtyard Palms.jpg
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Haight Ashbury.jpg
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
IMG00067-20100520-1601.jpg
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
IMG00059-20100520-0905.jpg
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Definitely Early
I think the answer to my last post is that it was early! Landed in San Fran about ten minutes ago! I'm really excited about meeting the team and finally getting the show on the road. I can't believe the past five months of training are over and it's time to finally see what we're made of. I had a chance to look over the terrain during the last 40 minutes of the flight. Wow' we have some mountains to climb!
Just an observation. Technology is amazing. Ten years ago I wouldn't have been able to update a website while waiting at baggage claim. Blogging this trip is going to be fun!
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Just an observation. Technology is amazing. Ten years ago I wouldn't have been able to update a website while waiting at baggage claim. Blogging this trip is going to be fun!
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Early or late
I got up at 2 AM after a few hours of napping. At one point I fell asleep at 7pm and then woke up to watch Lost. I have no idea what time zone I'll be set to considering I'm planning on cutting the criss country flight short with an Ambien!
Dropped of Winston at Nate and Becky's. I'm going to miss him :(
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Dropped of Winston at Nate and Becky's. I'm going to miss him :(
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Monday, May 17, 2010
Final preps
I am getting all the loose ends together. Although I don't head out till Wednesday morning at 6 am, the fact that I'm getting up at 3 am (midnight west coast) makes me feel like I'm leaving tomorrow night. I have adjusted to Pacific time over the past few days. I figured jet lag might be a hindrance to an already physically demanding schedule.
I shaved my head to about 1/4 inch this weekend. At first I thought it would keep me cooler and just be over all easier to quickly buzz it once a week. Then, after seeing my pale head for the first time in 33 years, I thought, "great, the only time in my life I'm going to be in a documentary movie (filmed by the guy who filmed Jaws no less) and I now look like an idiot!" Poor planning;)
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
I shaved my head to about 1/4 inch this weekend. At first I thought it would keep me cooler and just be over all easier to quickly buzz it once a week. Then, after seeing my pale head for the first time in 33 years, I thought, "great, the only time in my life I'm going to be in a documentary movie (filmed by the guy who filmed Jaws no less) and I now look like an idiot!" Poor planning;)
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Updates
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Tuesday, May 11, 2010
One week and counting/corporate interview
I can't believe that I'll be heading to San Fran in 1 week! It feels like just yesterday I hauled out my monster bike and hit the road for my first 17 mile ride in January. Now, after many many hours in the saddle, I am hitting 50, 60, 70+ miles with no trouble. Having the right gear goes a long way. I had a phone interview with the public relations rep a few days ago that went well. At first I was a bit hesitant to allow my story to be used for what seemed like corporate advertising but after some consideration this is what I concluded.
During Vietnam, Korea and World War II, everyone seemed to be involved. There were large numbers of veterans who returned home and everyone seemed to know someone who was drafted, killed, or wounded. It is different today. As the years passed from September 11th, things returned to normal. The majority of folks see the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan as distant afterthoughts, something you see on CNN, maybe debate our involvement over a few beers, then forget. For that reason, I think it is important for OIF/OEF veterans to tell their story. It is important to let people know what the wars mean to us and how they have affected us. Our corporate sponsors are giving us the means for a national voice. They are allowing our stories to be told to inform the country and give voice to the few that have served and sacrificed for our safety.
During Vietnam, Korea and World War II, everyone seemed to be involved. There were large numbers of veterans who returned home and everyone seemed to know someone who was drafted, killed, or wounded. It is different today. As the years passed from September 11th, things returned to normal. The majority of folks see the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan as distant afterthoughts, something you see on CNN, maybe debate our involvement over a few beers, then forget. For that reason, I think it is important for OIF/OEF veterans to tell their story. It is important to let people know what the wars mean to us and how they have affected us. Our corporate sponsors are giving us the means for a national voice. They are allowing our stories to be told to inform the country and give voice to the few that have served and sacrificed for our safety.
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