Bill Pearson
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| Joined: | Fri Oct 13th, 2006 |
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| Posts: | 1898 |
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2400 miles, 60 days, 4 riders…only one word can describe it…Fabulous. It’s been 2 years in the making, a hundred meetings and planning that would make the most proficient wedding planner blanch. Throw into the mix an average age of 70 plus, some speed bumps from participants along the way and one can only wonder how the heck they got this far along without losing their minds (or their heart).
Let’s face it, when one looks at the reasoning behind it, it’s easy to see why the core group never waffled, never were overcome by the overwhelming task of crossing half way across the United States on bicycles. They were driven. SammyRides was bigger than all of them and raising money for pediatric cancer and honoring the memory of Sammy Rotman was a motivation that helped see them through.
Here’s the exciting part; the starting day came and they are on their way. On a bright, sunny Sun City Arizona morning the riders gathered at the Sundial Rec Center amidst a throng of cheering (and kind of envious seniors). I mean let’s be honest, as enticing as it is to be part of the ride, how many of us could or would actually endure the aches and pains coming from this kind of challenge? Just the thought of my big old butt stuck on a bicycle seat all those miles, gives me hemorrhoids. Nope, not a pretty picture.
Knowing just how challenging this ride will be, i have nothing but admiration for Mike, Adolph and Mike (and John who will be joining them once recovered from some surgery). And to Lois who is driving the support van along side of them, good luck kiddo, you have your hands full; thank goodness she took that EMT course, i suspect along the route it will come in handy. There is no question in my mind, as fun as the first two plus miles were, the next 2398 will test your strength, endurance and commitment. Without doubt though, having gotten to know you, you’ll be just fine.
Thanks to those who turned out at the sendoff, it was a blast. For those who missed it and want to donate, go to the SammyRides website and get the information on how to be a part of something very special. To my new friends from Sun City Center Florida, thanks for coming into our lives and allowing us to be with you at the beginning. Ride safe gang, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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