Officer Down Memorial Challenge - April 1 2007

I finished the race in fine shape...in fact I was the first to complete the 35(actually 35.9) mile ride. Well actually the first that was riding just the 35 mile leg. There were other riders ahead of me...they were heading across the state to Ceder Key (145 miles). Anyway...three cheers for me :)

***The Ceremony***

There were about 6 different color guards from various agencies present. They marched to the starting line and then Taps was played from a bugle. Next each of the officers name were read by the Lake county Sheriff's daughter. Next a bell was rung for each officer..it was very quite and solemn moment. Amazing Grace was played by the bag pipers and the race began.

***The Ride***

I left the starting line at 6:30am with the first bunch to leave and was trying to figure out which rider to hook up with...then I went over railroad tracks and clunk...my GPS fell off my bike. I was think...how much did that thing cost...so I turned around and picked it up;) I caught up with about 12 riders that were going all the way to Cedar Key, which was to other ride co-starting with ours. These guys/gals were fast, so I tuck in behind them and pedaled like crazy, we managed around 20-25 mph for the whole trip. Yes, I felt like I was going to throw up a few times, especially my turn at the front which last about 10 seconds.

I meet a few of the riders and got the chance to tell them why I was riding, which was to honor the Callins and Michaels memory. I pointed out the Callins house on Lake Mills where Mike grew up, and spoke about Mike's character. I also heard some great stories about other fallen officers.

Well after about a hour and half I reached the finish, there was an aid station set up with beverages and food...but no finish line. Guess what, I beat the finish line set-up. Now that's fast! ;)

Afterwards I had to ride home...another 12 miles. So my mileage for the day was actually 48 miles. Whew

Me putting on my socks

That's me in the yellow