California Challenge Blog

Day 0

California Challenge kicks off in San Francisco

Dozens of injured troops along with celebrities, athletes, and elected officials will participate in the 7 day, 420-mile 2008 Road 2 Recovery California Challenge. Actors Mike Vogel (Cloverfield), chair of this year's VA National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans, Gary Sinise, and Ed Begley Jr. are among the participants joining dozens of injured veterans to raise funds to support Spinning® and outdoor cycling programs at Military and VA locations around the U.S. and help wounded warriors overcome obstacles they face. The ride will pass several military bases in California

Former Olympian Wayne Stetina and local cycling club ,Team Z, will be among more than 100 cycling enthusiasts who will join wounded warriors from the VA and Military Wounded Warrior Transition Units.

You will able to follow the ride on Major Jason Bryan's daily blog on the road 2 recovery.us.com website with daily updates including pictures and video.

LTC Patty Collins is back for California Challenge

The Road 2 Recovery California Challenge is the kick off of a National Fundraising effort to establish a R2R Mobile Tour for 2009. The USO and other organizations are supporting this fundraising effort.

The R2R Mobile Tour will be able to train and service all VA and Military WTU locations across the US as well as support the R2R events. The Mobile Tour will be available to appear at R2R partner Corporate or Organization national events and conventions.

Some of the featured warriors include:

Corporal Chris Lawrence who is a proud member of the United States Marine Corps. He departed to Iraq in April 2007, to the Al Anbar province. In August he was carrying a radio on a foot patrol as an IED was detonated under his feet while crossing a bridge. “I have no memory of the events that took place after wards. I woke up in National Navy Medical Center, not knowing why I was there. I received severe injuries to my legs and left side.” He spent 6 months recovering from his injuries. Due to the injuries on his left side, he can’t run, so his future focus is going to be on cycling to rehabilitate and exercise.

Staff Sergeant Nicolas J. (Nick) Lerma has spent 18 years in the Marine Corps, during which he served in Desert Storm, Somalia, and OIF all as an infantryman. While conducting a raid in 2003, he and two other Marines were severely injured when the ground under them gave way sending them falling. Upon returning to the States he had a total of five knee surgeries on both knees and one shoulder surgery. Then, during his recovery period he was supervising the firing of shoulder-launched rockets when one of the rockets exploded in the tube just two feet away. “Myself and the gunner were severely injured with shrapnel and TBI.” The gunner never fully recovered and remains under care to this day. The TBI impaired Lerma’s speech, memory, and cognitive reasoning. The blast caused him to fall to the ground unconscious where he broke the L4 and L5 vertebrae in his back. This led to arthritis in his knees, shoulder, and back.

Soon the pain became so bad he could no longer play with his two sons, then ages 10 and 15. “I felt less than a man. I sat alone in my garage almost every day and cried.” Then one day he overheard his oldest son talking on the phone, “Dad just stays on the couch now or in the garage…I miss him.”

. “Then I was sent to the PTSD center where I met Gil Ramirez” who invited him to join a bike group. He told Ramirez that he had tried it at the Poly Trauma center but didn’t like it because “we rode around the hospital like children being handled with kid gloves and it was embarrassing.” Ramirez told him to come out anyway. “We road twelve miles that next day and I thought I was going to die. The rest of my PTSD brothers gave me encouragement and for the first time in a long time I felt like a man again. I could do something and challenge myself.”

“My time at the PTSD program was a rebirth. I learned how to look at life again, not for what I no longer had, but for what I could have and did have. The bike played a huge part of that: it was a visible symbol of what I could still do. Now I go on 50-mile bike rides. I think about the friends I knew and the things I’ve been through and I ride the next mile for them and for me. I am Nick Lerma: father, husband, son, brother, friend, and US Marine and now all these people are more proud of me than they ever were.”

Regards,
Road 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091x1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.road2recovery.us.com

Supporters include USO, Star Trac, VFW, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen's, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt'r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.

DAY 1 San Fran to Santa Cruz

The California Challenge is finally here! After five anxious hours of thumbing through VeloNews and Sudoku puzzles, my plane finally arrived in San Francisco. While waiting for the hotel shuttle at the airport, I met a new friend. I figured he was with Road 2 Recovery because he had a prosthetic leg and a bike box. I introduced myself and was greeted with a huge smile and a handshake. His name was Jim and he stepped on a land mine in Vietnam over 40 years ago. More on Jim in a moment...

I've been anxious about the ride, excited to see my old friends and get to know the new guys. I'll say up front that I'm disappointed for all the guys from the East Coast Ride that didn't get to join us. I can honestly say the ride isn't the same without Mike, Kim, Diane, Keith, Kai, Ken, and the rest of the gang. However, I did get to see Ferris Butler last week at Walter Reed. He is doing very well after having his other leg amputated. He was released from the hospital only seven days after the surgery. His morale is higher than ever and he can't wait to join us for future rides. We do have a few from the East Coast Ride who are here. Of course John Wordin, Wayne Stetina, and Mike Vogel are here, but Larry Jester and Audry Webb also made the trip. This time, Audry and Larry are both sporting new road bikes. They are now seasoned cyclists and look every bit the part. I would like to note that Audry is now a bit scuffed up from falling today and Larry won't stop whining about the quarter-sized chip in his new carbon fiber Giant. Nevertheless, I can't help but recall Audry awkwardly pushing away from the steps of the Mologne House at Walter Reed on her mountain bike. Amazing.

2-Time Purple Heart Award - Vietnam Vet Jim Penseyres

The progress from the East Coast Ride has been obvious from the start-- John Wordin has assembled an impressive supporting cast. For starters, Performance Bikes came out in full force to help us put our bikes together. We have more support vehicles now than we had in May. Since I have all week to talk about the staff, I'll save some for later, but the bottom line is clear: John is committed to improving the program with every ride. It is great the support that we are getting from Sponsors. With Otis Spunkmeyer and Sunkist delivering tasty treats waiting for us when we arrived at the Hotel. To custom decaled Hansen's vans at each Rest Stop.

We started the ride this morning at the San Francisco VA Hospital. With 60 riders getting geared up minus our new jersey's which did not arrive in time we got going after a very gracious opening ceremony, and departed for Santa Cruz. Z-team pulled in just before the start and joined us for the day. The American Legion Post 911 provided incredible motorcyle support. They covered us as we passed through the San Francisco traffic, enroute to the Pacific Coast Highway. About 20 miles into the ride, the American Legion Post 238 setup a rest stop, complete with candy bars, water, and friendly faces.

Despite a chilly start and thick fog cover (which pretty much continued all day), the setting for this ride is nothing short of spectacular. There are sweeping views of the coastline-- waves crashing on the rocks 100 feet below. It's going to be difficult to keep from repeating myself about how amazing the view is on the ride, but not talking about it would be a shame. Frankly, it's difficult to concentrate on the road while descending at 45 mph instead of admiring the view.

Now back to my new friend Jim from the airport... I've since got to see Jim ride-- and he can hammer. He comfortably stayed right up with the front pack. I know because I sat on his wheel. Well, Jim isn't some run-of-the-mill cyclist. Jim turns out to be Jim Penseyres. I'll spare you the bio (I suggest you google him), but not only is he a two-time Purple Heart recipient, he's also a member of the Ultracycling Hall of Fame. Jim turns out to be an animal, having completed the Ride Across America (RAAM) in record-setting times.

California's scenic beauty

After 75 scenic miles of California coast, we pulled into our Santa Cruz home and gussied up for dinner. The Santa Cruz VFW hosted a terrific barbecue and we gorged ourselves. Everyone in Northern California has been totally hospitable. As I wrap up for the evening, I'll leave you with a recurring theme for the week. You have to join this ride. Morale is high. These warriors are phenomenal. The view is spectacular. And the friendships are forever.

Day Two: Santa Cruz to Carmel

We started the morning with the usual gathering around the breakfast table at the hotel. We're still getting to know each other, but you can tell the ice has been broken after the first day in the saddle. We chatted about another day on the road over bagels, fruit salad, and coffee. We questioned the weather and how much gear we'd need to stay comfortable during the ride. Northern California is cool this time of year-- almost warm enough to leave the snivel gear in the van, but just cold enough to want your skin covered.

After breakfast, we mustered in the parking lot. The American Legion Post 591 from Carmel joined us. Having these guys around has been incredible. They are thrilled to support and we're glad to have them. A number of the Vietnam era bikers shared their different styles of prosthetics with our vets. I think it's cool to find the generation gap covered by American heroes from different conflicts, but it is still an odd sight to see leather covered bikers and lycra covered cyclists yucking it up in a hotel parking lot.

As we pulled away from the hotel, a couple of guys toppled over-- their cleats still in their pedals. After setting them upright again, we were on our way. I talked with a number of Marines from San Diego and Palo Alto and immediately decided that's who I wanted to visit with today. Staff Sergeant Daniel Strong is a young Marine from Balboa Navy Medical Center with back, neck, and brain injuries (Traumatic Brain Injury [TBI]) from a roadside bomb that hit his vehicle. Another said he was being treated for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Palo Alto. Both freely talked about their injuries and then acknowledged the benefit that cycling was having in their rehabilitation.

The Gang at Pebble Beach

In the first five miles, Army First Lieutenant Juan Guerrero flatted. I stayed with him while we waited for the support vehicle. My new hero, RAAM extraordinaire Jim Penseyres (surely you've googled him by now), stayed with us. As we stood on the sidewalk leaning on our bikes, Jim and Juan talked about their injuries. Juan is missing his left heel and huge chunks of muscle in his right calf from an shape-charged type of IED, called an Explosive Formed Penetrator (EFP). They matter-of-factly talked about skin grafts and adjusting to life without major leg muscles. Within minutes, a van pulled up with a new wheel-- no need to fuss with tubes and pumps. Top notch ride support.

Lance Corp. Chris Lawrence making it happen......

We continued out of Santa Cruz into the farmlands. You could actually smell the strawberries while migrant workers filled their boxes in the distance. Occasionally, we'd get a glimpse of the ocean through the mountains.

Marine Corporal Christopher Lawrence decided to give one of the prototype electric-assisted bikes a try after one of the rest stops. The bikes were donated by Currie Technologies and are championed by Ed Begley Jr., who will ride with R2R on Saturday from Ventura.

I got to tag along with Chris and ride director Scott Moro for a few miles. Chris is a below the knee amputee resulting from an IED he encountered on a foot patrol. Scott is an Australian-born cyclist who worked with John Wordin as a mechanic back in the Mercury-Viatel days. We rambled on about whatever came to mind while passing the miles. I was, once again, impressed with the spirit of these champions. Chris' great attitude and optimistic demeanor will ensure his success, despite his new physical limitations.

American Legion Riders giving support

A group of about 20 riders assembled for the final ten miles of the day after yet another hospitality-filled rest stop from the American Legion in Seaside. We rode at a leisurely 10-12 mph pace with the energy of a tailgate party. We laughed and joked around while the American Legion escorted us through town on motorcycles. Their support was incredible. They posted road guards at intersections and shielded us from traffic while cheering us on. Their support was so good, it felt like we were on a closed course.

We were all glad to get to the hotel, which overlooks Monterey Bay. While most prepared for dinner, several of us jumped back on our bikes to ride out to Pebble Beach, which was only a few miles away. It was a terrific way to finish the day.

The same guys that escorted us from Santa Cruz all day hosted us for dinner at the Carmel American Legion. Again, we ate barbecue chicken and tri-tip like we might not ever get to eat again, then finished the meal with huge helpings of cheesecake-- so much for me using this ride to get back into my pants. At dinner, the Carmel Valley Rotary Club made a-- greatly appreciated-- $500 contribution to the program. We can't thank the people of Carmel enough for their gracious support.

Tomorrow is the hardest day of the week. 100 miles and 8,000 feet of climbing over Big Sur. I just hope to finish.

Day 3: Carmel to San Simeon

Road 2 Recovery Press and Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meKLA7CmokY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BN8iqbMGEQ

http://www.competitornorcal.com/events/california-challenge-kicks-off-in-san-francisco.html

http://www.register-pajaronian.com/V2_news_articles.php?heading=0&story_id=5789&page=72

http://www.syvnews.com/articles/2008/09/30/news/valley/news06.txt

Today was like a cycling dream vacation (California-style) with six hours of postcard quality views. You can ride your whole life and not match this scenery. We stopped briefly in a vista point to check out a dozen or so California Condors perched on the retaining wall. You could have touched them (not sure why you'd want to, though). Larry Jester saw a whale just off the coast, and we all checked out hundreds of elephant seals basking in the sun along the beach. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and we had a solid tailwind for the last 15 miles of the ride. As days on bikes go, this one was hard to beat.

Not a bad View

Perhaps the best part of the ride was the simplicity of the route. There were no arrows to deliberate over last minute route changes (I've joked that Ride Director should use question marks instead of arrows). Today's ride had two turns: we turned right in Carmel and turned right (exhausted) in San Simeon.

Big Sur Fire left big damage

Gravity was the biggest challenge of the day. Today's course was basically the same as the standard Amgen Tour of California stage over Big Sur, with three King of the Mountain climbs (although it seemed like at least a dozen HC [beyond category] climbs to me). Covering almost 100 miles of continuous elevation changes and switchbacks, we climbed just over 7,000 feet. At the top of each climb, we would shift to the big chainring and scream to the bottom. I white-knuckled down hills at 45 mph today, feathering the breaks when I'd had enough. Since I'm not a seasoned descender, I traced Wayne Stetina's line through the switchbacks to make sure I could handle the turn at those speeds. It was a total rush.

California Condors up close

Whenever you have a long day in the saddle, nutrition is very important. Luckily Road 2 Recovery has some strong support from companies like CytoSport the makers of CtyoMax. The guys love it and each of us makes our bottles each. 1 scoop will do you. Also, Clif Bars and ProMax have given different bars and gels that we can eat while riding....Today you needed all of it.

We had a big group until the first rest stop on top of Big Sur about 30 miles in. The guys looked strong over some tough hills. Wayne Stetina led our little peloton and would pull into little vista points along the way, just long enough to drink in the view and continue-- like a marathon runner passing a table full of cups.

Wayne said that Floyd Landis couldn't even hang with our vets today and that fear of embarrassment is why he won't join us. Wayne and Army Lieutenant Colonel Patty Collins were the first to depart the rest stop and I barely saw them again for the rest of the day. Patty was an incredible athlete when she got hit by a car during a training ride at Fort Bragg, NC two years ago. The resulting below the knee amputation has her on her own road to recovery-- and she seems to be doing very well. She finished today-- with a huge smile--at the front of a very elite pack of eight riders.

Patty Collins with Jim Penseyres

The group thinned at the first rest stop and continued to spread out the rest of the day. I rode in the back of a paceline with about 10 guys, but even in the draft I was at the end of my rope. Just in time, the bright orange Hansen's drink tents emerged in the distance. I coasted into the reset stop, unsure of what was left in the tank. I struggled over the last two climbs of the day and then we caught a tailwind-- with Vogel pulling the last 15 miles home at 25 mph.

I'd like to highlight Jake Wagner's strong performance today. Jake was wounded in Afghanistan when an IED hit his vehicle and fractured vertebrae in his neck and slipped a disk in his back. Jake now sports a beard that any lumberjack would envy, but he can hammer over the hills. He said that cycling has been a great alternative to running and has been a positive influence in combating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Spending time with Jake is a treat. His sense of humor and attitude make him a solid member of our team.

Today's Big Dog performance of the day goes to Marine Corporal Chris Lawrence, who rode the final 42 miles-- which included two significant climbs. He refused to quit and his Marine buddies stuck with him all the way. They got a standing ovation when they walked into the dining room tonight, still in their cycling gear.

American Legion Riders

Now we're in San Simeon and the cities of San Simeon and Cambria have received us with welcome hands and warm hearts. We received motorcycle escorts into town by the American Legion Post 432 Riders of Cambria. Then, the Cavalier Ocean Front Resort provided a spaghetti dinner with the support of some local vendors. Cambria Elementary school wrote letters which were placed on all the tables with patriotic placemats made by the kids. St. Lucia Middle School covered the walls with banners. It was an amazing finish to an amazing day. Now, everyone is going out to the beach just outside our hotel to eat s'mores by the campfire. This is like a cycling fairy tale.

Day 4: San Simeon to Pismo Beach

More Press Links

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26982049/

http://www.ksby.com/Global/story.asp?S=9109109

"This is the coolest thing I've ever done." -- Staff Sergeant Daniel
Strong, USMC

Well, so much for trimming the waistline on this ride. This morning we had
pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage-- compliments of the American Legion,
Cambria Post. I ate enough chow for a family of ten. I was hoping this ride
would trim off a few inches from my waist, but every time I turn around,
there's another box of food (and I eat it). Yesterday at the Big Sur rest
stop, I took a piece of bread and spread peanut butter over it, then wrapped
it around a Snickers bar. Today, I was sporting my new Road 2 Recovery kit
(bib and jersey), and had a salsa stain on my shorts before I left the first
rest stop. Maybe next year's ride can go from Anchorage, Alaska to Lima,
Peru.

Another Day in Paradise

Today was the perfect recovery day after yesterday's brutal test. LTC
Collins, Vogel and I sat behind the Marines singing cadence for the first
part of the day. It was good to see them back out on the bike and having
fun. I "floated" most of the morning, bouncing from one conversation to the
next. The morale is now high than ever-- now there's a bonding between us.
The conversations are much more natural now. That's the beauty of a
multi-stage ride. What I admire most is how these Soldiers, Sailors,
Airmen, and Marines are willing to face their limitations and accept the
challenge of a ride like this.

Marine David Belcher sporting the new duds

There are several cyclists who independently raised funds to join us for
this ride. Marc Cattapan raised over $4,000 through sponsorships from his
family, church, and local businesses in the Sacramento area. I suffered the
last 30 miles with Marc on Tuesday's epic journey over Big Sur and he loved
every minute of it. This ride wouldn't be possible without people like Marc
taking the time to support the program and the time spent with these vets
makes it all worthwhile.

Welcome to Pismo Beach

I can tell we're getting closer to LA. Vogel is now combing his hair and
wearing his fancy jeans to dinner.

The Central Coast of California has made an impressive effort to show their
support for this ride. I'd call it a real grass roots American Spirit.
Hundreds of kids from Shell Elementary School met us along the route today,
cheering us along with American flags. A sixth grade class contributed
about $40 in loose change to the program. Handwritten letters and homemade
cookies were on every table at dinner tonight. You can't fake that kind of
enthusiasm. The adult organizations also proved their appreciation for our
warriors who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. The list is just too
long to acknowledge everyone's support, but I have to name a few. First the
Rotary Clubs of Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, and Arroyo Grande each made
significant contributions to the program. The Elks Club and Kiwanis Club
also made donations. I was touched by the support, but so were others in
the audience. Corporal Christopher Lawrence said that seeing the beauty of
the California Coast and the support of its people made him realize exactly
what he signed up for and he would do it all over again to protect what we
have. (side story, today I was riding with Chris and he was having nerve
pain in his amputated leg. I asked him what level of pain did he have-- was
it 5-6 pain or 7-8 pain. He said, "my 5-6 pain is not your 5-6 pain.")
Considering his willingness to repeat his sacrifice brought me to tears.

Central Coast Community supporting Road 2 Recovery

Tonight's hotel has the best view so far. There are hundreds of pelicans
sunbathing on the rocks just feet away from the balcony of our hotel room.
I'm about to head out to the parking lot where our amazing photograghy team
is showing a slideshow of the ride so far. I was in their motor home last
night and their pictures are amazing. In every shot, everyone is smiling--
even in the middle of the toughest climbs of the trip. This feels like the
best summer camp ever.

Road 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091x1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.road2recovery.us.com

Supporters include USO, Star Trac, VFW, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen's, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt'r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.

This message, including any attachments, is solely for the use of the
intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged
information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution of
this communication is expressly prohibited. If you are not the intended
recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy any and all
copies of the original message. Thank you.

Day 5: Pismo Beach to Solvang

California Challenge Press:

http://www.santamariatimes.com/articles/2008/10/03/news/centralcoast/news02.txt

http://www.kcoy.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=d35aabea-1083-47e8-bc6f-107fcb8608a5

http://www.myfox11.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=18617@video.kcoy.com

http://www.myfox11.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=781cb5c6-85a8-4a50-b22e-4b606350c929

http://www.myfox11.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=18617@video.kcoy.com

Wish you where here

This morning, Mike Vogel, LTC Patty Collins, and I rode our bikes over to Oceano Elementary School to spend some time with the kids. Oceano Elementary School teacher Jim DeCecco met us on his beach cruiser bike in the hotel parking lot, then led the way through town to the school. But first, he wanted to introduce us to someone. We detoured from the route and pulled up to a house. Jim knocked on the door and asked for Gibby. A lady told him that Gibby was still asleep. Jim said to get him up. Next thing I know, I'm standing in Gibby's bedroom and Jim is making introductions. That was an awkward start to another fantastic day with Road 2 Recovery.

Commander Blogger

At the school, we met the local the local television station and did a live interview on the morning news. Afterwards, we joined the entire school of 3rd-6th graders assembled in the auditorium. This was another awkward moment because we had our cycling gear on, from bibs to cycling shoes. We waddled to the front of the auditorium and began a 45-minute "panel" about R2R and life in the military. Gibby joined us on the stage. Gibby turned out to be USMC Reserve Corporal Gibby Escobedo-- Mr. DeCecco was going to make sure the students saw Oceano's local hero. The four of us answered all types of questions about life in Iraq and the military. Corporal Escobedo very eloquently told the student body that he was proud to be a Marine and he thought he'd make a career of it.

Climbing the Mesa

One of the little girls asked Mike what movies he had played in. Patty almost jumped from her seat, repeatedly whispering "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" so Mike could hear. We were laughing so hard I could hardly breath while Mike fielded the question, blushing. Later, one budding young intellectual asked us if we were making any progress on the war. I handed the microphone to Patty.

After the panel, the students filed out of the auditorium and down to the road to greet the cyclists as they passed. The "panel" stayed behind for more media interviews. We gathered our stuff, hopped on our bikes, and waited with the kids for the rest of the cyclists. We gave high fives and took pictures among the crowd. I felt like a rock star. When the group came through, the kids cheered and waved flags, but the coolest part was watching the joy on rider's faces

Legion Hospitality

We had lunch at the 534 American Legion, and it was the best lunch yet. We had delicious barbecue chicken sandwiches on huge hoagie buns. I could have stayed there all day chatting with the dozens of friendly people from this quaint little California town.

This energy continued all day long, with pockets of supporters lining the roads and small teams of cyclists joining us for a few miles. The cyclists who joined us didn't just come to tag along. They came to pitch in. They continuously drifted through the pack, looking to assist vets who needed a nudge or encouragement over the hills. We paused at the gate of Vandenberg Air Force Base and were greeted by a crowd of Air Force personnel and their families.

Despite a few challenging climbs, the last 20 miles of today's ride was a beautiful tailwind. I reached speeds over 50 mph at least twice today while screaming down California Highway 1, with a California Highway Patrol escort right behind me.

After the ride, we all shucked our cycling gear and headed to the pool. The post-ride energy was incredible. There were belly laughs and cannonballs. It was a thrill to watch how happy they were to be on this challenging, yet rewarding ride. To see the transformation of the wounded warriors many of whom have never ridden a bike is amazing.

The sight of seeing a 260 lbs. Marine going up the hardest climb of the day talking about how is going to go home and buy a expensive carbon bike so he can come back next year and kick our butts is what this program means to people who take part.

It funny how on the first day everyone rides hard at the front and then everyone wants to ride in the back because it is so much fun riding with and watching the transformation of the warriors who are riding for the first time.

Welcome to Solvang

Tonight's dinner was hosted by the American Legion Auxiliary and Elks Club of Solvang, but it was really a total community event. They had a silent auction and dinner sold tickets to raise money for R2R... and the whole town came out to join us for dinner. We had a town hall style banquet, complete with more barbecue (maybe the best yet) and a country and western band. This little Dutch town felt like home. American Legion 548 leader Jim Banakus said during the presentation that hosting us for this event is more significant than Solvang hosting the Amgen Tour of California, then he challenged the audience to line the streets of Solvang for tomorrow's departure.

At the end of the presentation, Lance Corporal Elmer Ugarte made a very impromptu move for the microphone (during Elmer's deployment to Iraq, he was shot in the chest by a sniper and has been a champ on the bike despite a really bad knee). He told the people that they made him realize why he serves and how proud he was to be there with them tonight. He said it was important for them to continue this support-- that he had brothers in Iraq and Afghanistan and some of them will also be injured in combat-- and, they too, needed to see how appreciated they are. There was not a dry eye in the place.

The amazing stories are just too many to tell in one little journal. If you were here, you'd have a story of your own.

We have...

Ridden 348.13 miles

Hit top speeds of 50+mph

Spent 20+ hours on the saddle

Burned 21445 calories

Consumed 99999 calories (more or less!)

Day 6: Solvang to Ventura

Leaving Solvang

The city of Solvang came out in full force today. We watched the R2R coverage on the local news while we ate our morning cereal. More individuals joined us for the ride and we pushed off with the help of more
American Legion motorcycle support and the California Highway Patrol. School students, parents, tourists, and local shop workers lined the streets for five or six miles. This was the greatest display of public support thus far. It is great to see the support we are getting from local law enforcement.

Today featured the highest point of the ride, we had to make the climb over San Marcos Pass. The Pass was a long, hard climb and I sat in with Chuck and Corporal Elmer "Easy E" Ugarte. Chuck is a huge guy with a big heart. This former offensive lineman has given this ride everything he has. He said he didn't really want to come along for this trip, but the team from Palo Alto convinced him. Now, he says he's glad he came and looks forward to getting back into form. Corporal Ugarte asked me to stop pushing him up the hills, that he wanted to finish the ride himself (despite having lost a lung to a sniper's bullet). The two rode hard all day and we finished together.

Lake Cachuma

Wayne Stetina is sporting the newest, baddest cycling gizmo ever: the prototype electric, completely wireless, Dura Ace group. I got to give it a try and the thing shifts like an Italian sports car with the push of a
button. I immediately found a practical Road 2 Recovery application for this feat of Shimano engineering. The explosion that ruined Corporal Lawrence's leg also severely damaged his left arm. The other day, I told
him to shift to his big chainring to keep his momentum just before descending the hill. He told me getting to the big chain ring is hard because he doesn't have the strength. The new electric Dura Ace group would
fix that issue instantly. With enough public support, we'll be able to get one for him.

Once again, I have to remark about the terrific support for this ride. There are four vans in our support crew, driven by team mom's Pat and Lisa, our mechanic Neal, and Matt in the trail vehicle. They hover behind packs of riders all day-- at a dreadful 15 mph-- waiting to lend a hand. At rest stops, they are quick to offer assistance with a water bottle or snack or whatever they can do to help us take advantage of our short rest time and get back on the road. Pat has been encouraging us by waving the same pancake since San Simeon. Today, Marc's rear derailleur snapped completely off the dropout this morning when he hit a cone in the road. He was on another bike in minutes. The American Legion Riders from Chapters Orcutt 534 & Lompoc 211 again escorted the Wounded Warriors out of Solvang & down to Santa Barbara.

Our (pro bono) photography team is also working hard to capture the moment for every rider in the group. They setup scenic ambush points along the way, then spring out and shoot us as we go by. Vogel hardly has time to prepare.

Stage Coach Inn (100 year old tavern)

The best part of the day started at the top of the San Marcos Pass. I dropped three miles in five minutes. I sailed behind Jim Penseyres at speeds around 50, with the California Highway Patrol riding behind me. Our little group reassembled at the bottom, exhilarated. The Lantern Rouge (the caboose) group cruised through Santa Barbara and little coastal towns. We watched the surfers and people with flip flops on beach cruisers. As we passed the 101st Airborne Division sign at the entrance of California highway 101, LTC Collins and I sang "Rendezvous with Destiny" to anyone willing to hear. We finished the ride with a group of about 12, including some of our wounded warriors that fought hard to complete the ride. I was
proud to witness their accomplishment.

Tonight's dinner was in the Bay View Room on the top floor of our hotel. It had a spectacular view of both the beach and inland mountains. The Ladies' Auxiliary helped us carbo-load with pizza and pasta before tomorrow's finish. Patty made a very profound observation by publicly thanking all the non-military participants in the ride this week, which was followed by a standing ovation from the vets. It's hard to believe this week is coming to a close, but I feel like our bond will continue to generate support for
the program for a very long time.

View from Dinner

So we're in Ventura, California tonight, another hotel with a great view--miles of beach from my balcony. I'm a bit sad to see the ride wrap up tomorrow, but I miss my family and work awaits. But, I'll be marking my
calendar for the next event.

Miles 413.75
Ascent 23959 ft
Calories burned 26931
Calories consumed #$%!@
Top Speed Attained Mach 2 (by a select few today, NOT including me)
Max Heart rate 181 (not bad for a 56 year old, and it was on the downhill today...FEAR INDUCED!)

Regards,
Road 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091x1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.road2recovery.us.com

Supporters include USO, Star Trac, VFW, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen's, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt'r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.

Day 7 Ventura to West LA VA

We would like to thank everyone who supported the California Challenge and for making the ride such a great success. We could not do it without the support of Corporations, Organizations, and Individuals who fund, support, and participate in the R2R program.

The California Challenge is more than a bike ride. It is an experience like no other. We wanted to share one such story with you to give you an example of the transformation that takes place.

One of the wounded warriors had been shot while in Iraq. Due to the circumstances of the battle and nature of the injury, he had trouble sleeping and developed a fear of the dark. For many months he would sleep with his computer turned on so that the monitor would provide light. He did not want anyone to know that he was afraid. By the fourth day of the ride, he turned his computer off and slept through the night.......

American Legion Riders leading the way

This morning came with strange emotion. We were all excited to complete the 470-mile mission down the California Coast, but disappointed to see it end. The tone around the breakfast table was almost somber as we began our goodbyes. I hate long farewells, but this would continue all day long. Thanks again to Madeline Lee and the Camarillio Auxiliary for their support.

Star Trac is ready...Anyone seen Keith?

There were dozens of new riders in the hotel parking lot for the morning ride briefing. I tried to make my way over to every new face and thank them for joining us. One particular group I want to mention was from Star Trac, one of the main sponsors for Road 2 Recovery. Ed Begley Jr. also joined us. He rode one of the electric IZIP bikes he endorses and seemed very appreciative for the opportunity to ride the final leg of the ride. I believe there is a real benefit to this technology in the program. Ed donated $1,000 to R2R.

Riding with Ed

We started yet another day with the help of the American Legion Riders from Post 48 and their motorcycles protected us from traffic and assisted with directions all day long. I wish I could have this kind of support every time I ride. I've said it before, but they were instrumental to the success of the ride and a pleasure to work with. Very often, after a long, hard leg of pedaling, they would come over and congratulate us at the rest stop for making it—sometimes I think they liked being with us as much a we liked having them there.

Welcome Home

One particular rider I have not yet mentioned is Duane Wagner, a double amputee from the Vietnam War. Duane is a real character, with a sense of humor that is so dry you won't realize he was kidding until moments later (I'm still wondering about some of his tales). He often joked about his prosthetic legs with comments like “my feet are cold, I might get sick” or “the pavement is too hot to walk without shoes on.” Duane is also a remarkable cyclist and he hammered right along with us all week. He insisted on rooming with a different young vet every night to get to know them better and provide much needed mentorship. He is a true testament to the warrior spirit that we saw so much of all week. The ride would not have been the same without him.

Chris Lawrence getting a helping hand....

Today’s ride from Ventura to Los Angeles included more sweeping views of beaches, beautiful houses, surfers, and towns that they name television shows after. We pulled through Malibu and continued down the Pacific Coast Highway until the Santa Monica pier was visible in the distance. We regrouped at the last intersection and made the final surge to the West LA Veteran’s Affairs Hospital. Supporters lined the road with huge American flags at 10-foot intervals all the way to the finish line.

Welcome to Malibu

At the finish, we dismounted one last time under the orange Hansen’s drink tents that have become so familiar. Some of the guys had family members to greet them, while the rest of us began another round of farewells, congratulations, and thanks for a great week.

A huge stage awaited and the ceremony began. Patricia Kennedy presented awards from the Step Up 4 Vets to Gary Sinise, Ed Begley Jr., John Wordin and Mike Vogel. Karisa Winett was the opening act. Then, Gary Sinise and the Lieutenant Dan Band performed before a crowd of cyclists and supporters. My favorite was when they played “Teenage Wasteland,” the theme song to Sinise’s television show “CSI: NY”. After the concert, I got to meet Gary and he was a total class act. I watched him while others introduced themselves and had pictures taken. He genuinely addressed each fan. I felt like he really understood the purpose of Road 2 Recovery and what we're trying to accomplish.

Lt. Dan is in the House

So that’s it; the California Challenge is over and everyone has gone their separate ways. For the first time in a week, I didn't rush to prepare for another day on the road. Now, I need to figure out how to get to Virginia Beach next weekend for the R2R Inaugural Fleet Week Training Clinic and Ride

Regards,
Road 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091x1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.road2recovery.us.com

Supporters include USO, Star Trac, VFW, Otis Spunkmeyer, Sunkist, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Operation Rebound, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen's, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt'r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.