And Thus it Begins

This Saturday, Oct 16th, we start our long awaited ride from San Francisco to San Diego.  The Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) this year has exceeded it's own expectations with 150 people taking on the 620 mile course.  To date the Million Dollar Challenge 2010 has raised over $1.25M a new record for this event.

When you take into consideration that the goal was 100 people each raising or donating $10K you remember that this is more than a ride...it's challenge to those who dare to achieve new heights in one or many areas of their lives.  Cycling, fund raising, diet, training, work schedule, family, time off at work, etc are just some things that come to mind.  When a participant signed up for this program they immediately changed the course of their life.

This event is, by design, to bring greater awareness about disable people who want to participate in those sporting events that a fully abled person can do without thought.  In the US we have come to recognize the daily adversity that a disabled person is faced with.  We have handicapped parking, special bathrooms and ensure that there isn't discrimination in the work place for those who are consider disabled.  But unfortunately insurance doesn't see sporting events or even exercise as an essential part of day to day living.  We have yet to realize that a plastic leg isn't going to allow a person to run or even walk a marathon.  This is why CAF was started. 

Don't even let me get started with regards to other countries in the world who discard people with disabilities.  When you hear some of the stories, from CAF athletes, you are reminded that we are very fortunate to live in the United States.  CAF helps as many as they can with no regard to nationality, disability or country of origin. 

Jim MacLaren was the first person to receive a grant from CAF.  Some very dedicated friends got together in order to help this spirited individual.  Unfortunately Jim passed this year.  He will definitely be in the hearts and memories of us all as we ride down the coast.

This is my 3rd year with CAF and I feel very privilege to be a part of something that is touching people all over the world.  As a Ride Leader nothing brings me greater joy than seeing people who haven't ridden more than 20 miles at the start of our training come to this point ready to ride over 620 miles in 7 consecutive days.  The fear and trepidation is gone replaced with confidence and skills.  The many miles of training have written into their body, mind and spirit a message that he/she is ready.

But in this group of 150 will also be a small segment of the individuals that is our purpose.  When I ride along side Fred Liebel or David Lee I can't help smile and be proud.  In them I find my inspiration.  They give as much or more in just being who they are and showing the world that it's not a disability, just a different way to live.

Ending of the Beginning

This morning I got up at 4:45 AM to be at the XX1090 radio station by 6:00 AM.  I was excited and actually woke up at 4:30 AM.  My dogs, Butternut and Zeke, could tell there was something going on.  They were hoping it was time to go to the park.

It was dark as I drove down Mira Mesa Blvd and I was recalling two years ago when I was heading to the station for the final announcement.  Those same nervous butterflies started to fly around in my stomach but I had to smile because I knew they weren't for me.

Just before getting there Adam Beck, last years winner, called to see if I was on my way.  He was expecting the last radio contestants, Chris Glossner and Mark Estrada, to be there already. I told him I was only a few minutes away.

As we stood outside by the back door again we looked around wondering where the two contestants where.  Finally at 6:10 AM, Adam called in to John Pratt.  To our surprise Chris and Mark were inside already.

We were escorted to the office to wait for a minute.  Chris was there with his two girls and Mark was dressed up with a XX1090 cape and CAF jacket.  Nice touch.

We went into the radio station area where Scott and BR were broadcasting.  Few pictures, some handshakes and hugs.  Then they hit the radio.  Mark was first up and then Chris.  I could tell they were nervous.  When you think you're talking to thousands of people, it kind of makes you step on your words.

After a few questions and some comments the survivor song came on and then...the announcement.  Scott had an envelope that he passed to BR to open.  BR then passed it back for Scott to announce.  Chris was the winner. 

Since Chris had raised over $10K he decided to give it to Mark so he could do the ride.  Fantastic.  Nicely played and it showed great sportsmanship.

Each year it's a different contest. New people, different stories but the end result is the same...raise awareness of CAF.  Adam did a huge amount of work to ensure the contestants had the info they need.  He also put heat and soul into this years contest.

CAF, an organization that has only been around 16 years, has made huge strides around the world and touched thousands of people.  I'm proud to be associated with them and will always remember my experience from 2008.  It shapes another part of my life.