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.