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.