Leaving Boise
It was another successful MS150 this year. The weather was beautiful and cooperated for the full event. Even the wind stayed away. Temperatures were chilly in the morning, 35 to 40 degrees, then heated up to a perfect bike riding temperature. About 75 degrees or so. The ride this year started in the town of McCall, went north along Payette Lake, then deep into the mountains. I was very impressed with the organization of the event. Rest stops were perfectly spaced out for the riders and were stocked with friendly people and lots of goodies to keep their energy up.
The second day’s route again started in McCall. This time they headed east then south. Riding more through open meadows on this day, they travelled on roads that tested their endurance, up and down rolling hills, wearing on already weary legs. They travelled past Cascade Lake to Tamarack Resort, located back in the mountains, a beautiful location.
The two routes definitely forced the riders to earn their keep this year. Lots of long, steep climbs kept the whole pack questioning why they do this each year. But, they quickly remember. The reason is MS. They ride for those who can’t. They are willing to abuse their bodies, endure leg cramping, skin chaffing miles of rough road to try and raise awareness for this devastating disease. Some do it for the cause, others do it for loved ones who were stricken with the illness. Whatever their reason, these riders are the true champions. Heroes, in my mind. They aren’t selfish when it comes to doing whatever it takes to raise awareness and funds.
The Reason
I drove along as a S.A.G. vehicle. I had it easy, being able to drive, but I wanted to be there for her. What most people don’t know about my wife is, in 2002, she suffered a motorcycle accident that permanently damaged her back. Sitting in the saddle of a road bike in the cramped position that you are forced to endure, is absolute agony for her. This year she wasn’t even able to train for the ride. The last time she took her road bike back down off the wall was for last year’s ride. Talk about tough. I kept asking her to not ride after the first day, I didn’t want her doing serious damage to herself. Her just being there was enough, but those who do know my wife, know she is stubborn. J She refused to quit and stuck it out. The last half of the day she had to stop every 4 miles and stretch out her back, but she did it.
The Finish
I was blessed this year to have my kids with me for the event. They enjoyed cheering on the other riders, whooping and hollering, clapping in encouragement as the riders rode by. They did a great job and they had a good time. They were honored to be included in supporting this ride. I wish more kids would get involved. There were about a dozen kids total over the weekend, but I think more could be encouraged to partake. For me, I know it works, because I saw the smiles that lit up the riders faces as they heard my two trying to encourage them. To me that spells success.
The kids
The ride is over for this year, but the fight continues on. I’m challenging each and every one of you to help in this fight. It can be cured, but it will take a tremendous amount of support from many people. Until the last one is cured, the battle is not done.
The SAG Mobile
