My Ride to Conquer Cancer

June 26 & 27, 2010 will be two days of my life that I will not soon forget.
(Warning... it's a bit of a long post)

The morning started off fairly typical for me, early up, and prepping for something new. I headed out to Spruce Meadows, only to be faced with a huge amount of traffic, but guess that's to be expected when 1888 riders are getting ready to head out on a two day, 220km ride. Erin met me at the opening ceremonies and it was great to have her there! There was a lot of excitement in the air and the opening ceremonies were incredibly emotional. I doubt there was a dry eye in the crowd, but there was a lot of cheering too, especially when they announced that collectively we'd raised $7.4 million dollars!!!

With that, we were off! It was odd to me, that even though I was surrounded by 1888 other riders with a common purpose, heading out all together, united as one.... I can't recall the last time in my life I had felt so deeply alone. It must have been that sudden realization that only I could get me and my road bike across those 220kms. It didn't last long, because as soon as we headed out I was focusing on a great big hill to climb.
















(photo above, pitstop at Okotoks)

Before I knew it I was at Okotoks, and then High River, and then Nanton. The pit stops were brilliant, with bike repair service, lots of food and porta potties.
I was lucky to have some family to greet me at lunch which was nice...





























After lunch I hit the road again, as we all headed west toward Chain Lakes Provincial Park. Really all I can say is .... YIKES! Check out the elevation











It was a slog to say the least, and I can't believe I managed a smile when I arrived at camp.
Things going through my mind during the "7 mile climb"

• there's no way on earth I could ever do a Half Ironman
• if I wipe out going down this hill it's going to hurt SO bad
• this hurts, but I won't quit on Heather (oh and I'm too stubborn)
  
• I could walk my bike up this hill, but that looks like too much effort

I can honestly say it was the mental battle of a lifetime!








The camp was a welcome relief, along with my little cheerleading crew that were literally parked at the finish line! Like an automaton, I waited in line for a shower and went to bed in "tent village" with my ear plugs firmly in place, and slept like a LOG.

I'll admit, I didn't have the same gusto behind me when I started out day two, and I seriously expected the day to be horrible. About 15kms into the day I regained my cellular service and heard the chime of text messages coming in (thanks everyone!!!!) that I knew I was going to be fine.

Day two was brilliant!!! I savoured the day and tried to enjoy every second knowing that it was going to go fairly quick. And as I came closer to the end I was overcome by periodic waves of emotion, and I had to choke back the tears. Crossing the finish line was a great moment, not just because I was done, but because it was a great feeling knowing that I was part of something so special, and for such a special purpose. Every person there, had someone they were carrying with them in their minds and hearts, for each and every kilometer. Heather, I can say this without a moments hesitation.... for you, I would do it again and again. It was a weekend I'll remember for FOREVER and I can only hope that it will make a difference.

Generally speaking...I had no mechanical issues which was surprising given the number of flats I had during training. I had a few hurts, mostly my feet because they kept falling asleep :( I've been asked about my backside... but honestly, that great seat I invested in was worth every penny. For the first time in my life, I have a bit of a tan (albeit a crazy form of a farmers tan) and that was with SPF 60 on!!! I had a few moments of "grrrrr" when people decided to pass on the right or ride 4 across up a hill.... I had to quelch my competitive spirit a number of times and remind myself it was a ride not a race :)

I can't begin to thank my donors for their support and of course my family... for being my cheerleaders, for putting up with my crazy training antics and for their general belief in me.