We are doing a thing.
We will need help. Help in the forms of money, teammates and good wishes.
I rode my first fundraising ride for the MS Society, the summer of 1988. I had just graduated engineering school after a very long, convoluted and protracted road of college, work, college, college and work, new dad and work and college. When I did finally graduate, my lovely wife had wanted to gift me a ticket to the Denver Post Ride the Rockies ride. I had all of maybe three hundred miles under me over the previous year. I was in no condition to ride any real distance. And certainly not climbing mountain passes in the Colorado rockies. A college friend suggested the MS150 ,so we both signed up. I mean I had a whole three weeks to prepare while I interviewed, worked and helped wrangle our two daughters. I managed a few hundred miles more riding before the ride started on the southeast side of Denver at Highlands Ranch. That first day would total a hundred mile century including climbing the Air Force Academy and other climbs I’ve forgotten, ending finally at the football field at Colorado College, where our tents would be pitched.
When we checked our bikes into the secure lockup, I could barely walk. A few hours later after a long leg massage, shower and a second massage, I was feeling better. After a huge meal of pasta and greens, I was even better. We were all early to bed and up with the sun and smell of fresh coffee for breakfast. It was amazing how my legs had spring in them again. Almost like I’d never abused them chasing tandems to draft most of the previous day then trying not to blow up on the climbs. We got off to a quick, early start in the coolness of the morning. By noon, we stopped for a break and I grabbed a quick leg massage to help me with the last climb up to the Royal Gorge and the finish. I was beat when we got on the bus to return to Highlands Ranch. A great ride and memories.
Thirty eight years later I sit here with a good deal more distance in my legs than back then in my busy youth. Retirement has allowed me to spend time staying pretty fit. I have confidence I can ride the distance.
Our OC Wheelmen team is at work and training. We need to raise some money to do our part to help. I kickstarted my funding with a $50. I don’t expect anyone to do similar. Anyone who feels they can donate, please do and we thank you with all our heart. Or if you also want to ride along, feel free to join us, we will be happy to have you.
Thank you for your consideration. More to come as our team grows and prepares.
Along The Way 