Riding Is Easier

Lars, the Towel Boy here…logged on as Renee. This is my first chance to post ’cause it’s my first opportunity to gather my thoughts in front of a computer. Having been one of the riders last year, I knew what an awesome experience it was to spend so much time on one of those little bike seats with some amazing people. This year, I switched to the other side of the fence to participate as a support person, to help my wife Renee provide sports massage to the riders when they finished their legs of the journey. Well, let me be perfectly clear up front – I’ll take riding the bike any day! I have so much greater respect for the support staff for all the behind the scenes things they do to make this event so successful. From the van drivers and team “parents” (Sally, Dawn, Betsy, Loren, Jen, Anne, Jessica, Kim, Mike and Don) to the medics (Reuben and Keith), the mechanics (Arthur and Bob) and the massage therapist (yes, you dear), they work tirelessly to make sure the teams are where they need to be when they need to be there, line up places to stay, coordinate logistics with the other vehicles, find places to eat, etc., etc., etc. My heartfelt “THANKS” to all of you for all you do!! You’ve heard a lot from and about the riders themselves and I certainly don’t mean to slight what they endure – and the riding conditions this year were much more challenging than last year – but, guys, can I pleeeeze have a spot on one of the riding teams next year ’cause this support stuff is way too hard!!!

Dennis