Chesapeake Bay Asthma Ride

I've posted a complete report of our latest bicycle adventure on the web site, which is linked to the title above for you. To save some blog space I'll just post a synopsis here, which is good practice for my writing skills anyway.

Almost two years ago, in July of 2004, Terri discovered that the ALAM put on a charity bicycle ride on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The longest route available was 100 miles, and she set that as a personal challenge. At the time we were not riding bikes often at all.

Within a month we had upgraded our bicycles and were riding regularly. By September we tackled a tough "metric century" of 100 kilometers in Carroll County in bad weather and with much pain. In June of 2005, Jason and Sammy joined us for their first metric century, and then in September of 2005 we all volunteered to support the fall ride.

This past weekend we set out with a new determination to complete the full "century" or 100 miles. Though the weather wasn't great, and lady luck started the day being a witch, Terri and I completed the full ride. You'll have to read the detailed report given on the link to really appreciate how much of an accomplishment this was.

Next year we think the kids will be ready for the century. This ride is a family event that we all look forward to and there's some people that I want to thank for making it so enjoyable. The entire staff at ALAM are wonderful but I want to particularly mention Steve, Kelly, and especially Butch who have all shown us the human side of an important organization. There are the volunteers who come year after year, including Anita, Dawn, Danielle, Mike, and Tim. They man the rest stops and help bring all the riders together like a family. There's the top fundraiser, Bill Berned, and his brother Robbie, who have together raised over $60,000 for ALAM. I wish I could remember the name of the guy that came from Colorado to ride his 14th consecutive ride. You all give us so much inspiration, and we plan to be riding with you for many years to come.

Most importantly there's the friends and family that contribute to the cause. Together you've helped us raise about $2400 so far, and we can't thank you all enough. Anyone want to join us next year?

Tom