Raam 2010

2011 Summer adventure x2 = Raam

2011-08-16T22:46:00.000-07:00

Well we will see what the next 2 weeks brings besides renewed energy and answers for my career passion I hope.

On 21 Aug I start 750 mile bike from Saint Quentin en Yvelines in France to a coastal town called Brest and back within a 90 hr time period. See my FB for my number and link.

FB will have the updates from Enduroman Arch to Arc triathlon adventure. It starts with 87 mile run from Marble Arch in central london to the coast, EC swim with a wetsuit and then 180 mile bike from Calais into Arc de Triomph in central Paris.

I want to thank each person who has been so encouraging and helpful in my training over the last few weeks. I will run, swim and bike with gratitude as I think of the fun memories we shared to make the miles smoother and faster.

Kathy E for spending 3 hrs at Santa Cruz with me

Jenn K for SFO marathon inspiration

Tim W for Ultimate at 4pm on Sunday and his patience in running with legs who had already run 26 miles.

Ian & Kim H for spending a whole Saturday at Santa Cruz while I did a 6hr swim and they fed me bananas and water just like the Freda Dover folks except this time I got mental nourishment too.

Awesome Suzie D of DOlphin and SOuth End who observed my 6hr in Aquatic Park.

Kim F who did a night ultimate and my 10 km swim with me & lent me gear and who introduced the Brevet concept to me and offered to collect me on my return.

Tina W for my Alpine creek ride and dinner and taking me to Airport.

There are many more but I am indebted to the above.

Facebook | Alexandra Gwathmey

2010-07-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Facebook | Alexandra Gwathmey: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

RAAM

2010-07-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

RAAM

wow appreciation

2010-07-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

Official Finish for RAAM: 9:15am EDT!

2010-06-21T11:40:00.001-07:00

Erin: Michele rode into the finish at 9:15am EDT this morning. She has been through every weather imaginable and every form of road possible. Michele has completed her goal and did it with the highest amount of strength and positivity. She is one amazing woman and athlete; this was a tough race, but her preparations helped her race so well. Michele's crew did a wonderful job of supporting her and being with her every step of the way. The crew plays many roles throughout the race: sports therapist, emotional support, navigator, bike repair, driver, and most of all the crew that keeps her safe. She has come all the way across the country in record time, and all the support from her crew and all the friends and family rooting for her has kept her positive and energetic throughout the race. Let's see what's next for Michele and thank you for supporting her through this journey!

Annapolis is closer than ever

2010-06-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

Erin: Michele started climbing through the Appalachians last night and did awesome despite the fog and rain. She was able to take some time to sleep and was pschyed to get back on the bike. She is pedaling fast and strong today. Michele is about ready to get to that harbor. Through the desert, Rockies, plains, Appalachians, heat, humdity, rain, wind, hail, and fog...Michele has made it this far with strength and support. Her journey to the east coast is almost over; she has proven to be a strong-willed and prepared athlete. Michele has done what she needed to prep herself for the obstacles she has raced through. Her crew has been amazing and very supportive of her goal to finish the race. We shall see her coming through the finish by early Monday morning, if not sooner. KEEP PEDALING!

In the last 500 miles!

2010-06-19T15:45:00.000-07:00

Erin: Michele is in the last stretch of the race with less than 500 miles to go. She is in need of a good night's sleep, but she is pushing herself to finish the race as fast as she can. Soon, she will be entering another huge climb through the Applalachian mountains. Michele is excited to start another large climb and is prepared to fly through the mountains. She is a strong rider and is ready to get to the finish. These last miles are the hardest, but she is doing very well. Her energy level is high and the crew is with her 120% to get her to the finish.

Ohio

2010-06-18T13:31:00.000-07:00

Erin: Michele is battling another day filled with heat and humdity as she rides through Ohio today. As of this morning, about 11:30 EDT, she was on her way to Oxford, Ohio. She has gotten more rest and is keeping up with a healthy food regimen which is keeping her energized and positive throughout this entire race. I seem to get the same message everyday, that says that Michele is doing really well and riding strong. Michele is definitely a very strong rider and has prepared herself tremendously for this event. I know that we are all very excited to see her make the finish in Annapolis.

I have been asked when the the Building Futures Now team had passed and I have been notified that they passed Michele on Thursday in the early morning. Michele happened to be sleeping at the time they had passed. I should have more updates either later this evening or tomorrow for everyone. GO MICHELE!!!

Ilinois and Indiana

2010-06-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Erin: Michele has caught up on some sleep so she could ride strong and fast today. She road through Illinois and is going through Indiana. It started to heat up a bit, but she is still pedaling fast and strong. She only has a few more days til she reaches Annapolis. Michele is doing what she came here to do and she is doing it with a lot of strength. I don't have too many details on today's going, but I do know that she has a constant of riding strong and being positive. Michele is making this experience amazing for herself and her crew. Keep pedaling; GO MICHELE!!!

Made the 2nd Cut off at Missippi River!!

2010-06-16T20:00:00.000-07:00

Erin: Hello all, I know I am late getting a blog up and I do apologize. All of you are great readers and supporters of Michele and I know she is very much appreciative. Anyways, Michele reached the 2nd cut off for the race this afternoon (EDT) and has less than 1000 miles to the finish in Annapolis, MD. She is riding stronger than ever and is really moving fast to get to the finish. Michelle is doing her job riding and doing what she loves. She is currently riding through Illinois and is well on her way to an amazing finish. I know I am speaking on behalf of Michele and all of her followers when I say how thankful we are for her crew. They are doing the best job of keeping our favorite rider safe, healthy, and keeping her motivated and encouraged to do ride her best. Keep checking the RAAM site to see her mileage and timing: http://www.raceacrossamerica.org.

On the way to Missouri

2010-06-15T07:52:00.001-07:00

Erin: I meant to post this the other day, but totally forgot I had this picture. Michele is just about ready to leave Kansas. She has one last time station at ft. scott, Kansas and then its 66.4 miles to the next time station in weaubleau, MO. Her crew says she had a great day yesterday, but the crew was confused with some of the detour information from race HQ. She is spending more time on the bike and less time resting, but is managing well with her awesome crew. Michele is continuously in good spirits, while smiling and laughing while she is riding. GO MICHELE!!!

Kansas

2010-06-14T07:06:00.001-07:00

Erin: Michele rode into Kansas yesterday afternoon and dealt with more clouds and rain. She was in good spirits yesterday and riding strong. Michele was using a back up bike yesterday due to her favorite bike having a few mechanical issues. Chris was able to get Michele's favorite bike back on track. Around 8:24am EDT, Michele was heading to Pratt, Kansas which marks the halfway point in the race. Her crew says she is pedaling strong and steady. They didn't run into any severe weather last night, but it is humid and drizzling. Now that Michele has her favorite bike fized, she is a happy rider. GO MICHELE!

Out of the Rockies & into the Plains

2010-06-13T10:53:00.001-07:00

Erin: Michele was riding through a bad cell phone reception area for quite a while, so I couldn't get you all updates. Michele went through some bad weather with cold temperatures with rain and hail. She was frustrated with the bad weather, but now she is out of the mountains and into the plains. She has less than 20 miles now and she will be in Walsh, CO. The crew says she is feeling very strong today and I'm sure she is happy to be away from the bad weather. They hope to be into Kansas by midnight.

She is headed for the next cut off, which is in west alton, MO at the Missippi river. I should be back with more later on today.

Cold Temps Last Night

2010-06-12T07:46:00.000-07:00

Erin: Yesterday Michele made the cut off at Durango by 12:15pm EDT with 18 hours to spare. I didn't receive many updates, because cell phone serice was slim to none. When Michele reached Pagosa Springs, CO, they stopped for a shower and a short rest. By 11pm EDT on Friday, Michele was back on the bike and headed for Wolf Creek Pass with temps forecasted with lows of 32 degrees. Rain and storms were possible or even a little snow was in the forecast.

Michele is still riding strong and making her way into the the last 2000 miles.

Almost at the First Cut Off

2010-06-11T07:32:00.000-07:00

Erin: I have finally got some details on what has been going on out there. Michele had a really good day yesterday through Monument Valley, Utah; she was going real fast. Yesterday she was able to complete 300 miles in under 24 hours, so she's definitely rockin' it out there.

She is about 23 miles away from the first cut off in Durango, CO. Right now, Michele is climbing through the Rockies and jammin' to her ipod. She has experienced a little leg discomfort as can be expected, but its nothing too unusual. Her crew has kept her hydrated and full of calories. Michele is doing really well and is well on her way to Annapolis.

2010-06-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

Erin: I have been sent this photo to be posted on here. Apparently, Lance has some birthday wishes to our racer! I don't have anymore updates of Michele as of right now. The must be keeping busy, busy, busy. I'm trying to get some details as quickly as possible. Look out for another blog later this evening. GO MICHELE! Check out http://www.raceacrossamerica.com for the race statistics.

Day 2: RAAM 2010

2010-06-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

Erin: Michele has been doing awesome today! She rode 100 miles without any breaks. She had to face the Yarnell grade earlier and as said from her crew chief, Sara: "She powered up Yarnell grade like it was just a little speed bump". She is a bit low on her caloric intake, but plans to adjust to more food intake. She has only slept a total of 30 mins, but seems to still have tons of energy.

6:50 EDT, I have been updated that she is approximately 30 miles away from time station #7 in Prescott, AZ. Michele is racing like none other and has really shown how well she has prepared herself. Keep checking for more updates!

Completed: 250 miles in 14.5 hours.

2010-06-09T07:14:00.000-07:00

Erin: So I have received a long email with details on Michele's overnight status. As soon as it got dark, the follow van enters a direct follow to keep Michele safe while riding at night. After entering the desert Michele was a bit nauseas for about 2 hours, but the crew switched up her nutrition which did just the trick. Her crew chief says that Michele is really thinking strategy and planning ahead for what she needs from her crew.

The crew is beginning to get into a routine that fits Michele best. She is using great communication with her crew, and the crew is getting her everything she needs. Michele past time station 3 with a few minutes after 4am EDT. After that she shortly entered into Arizona. She completed 250 miles in approximately 14.5 hours, while spending less than 10 mins off the bike. She is constantly riding strong and she has a great crew with her. Keep pedaling Michele!!

RACE DAY!

2010-06-08T15:50:00.001-07:00

Erin: Today has been the official start to the 2010 RAAM race. Michele started the race at 3pm Eastern Daylight Time (12pm PDT). The race will be on eastern time for the entire race. For the first 20 miles of the race, Michele was not supported with the crew. The crew has a follow van set up after the 20 miles and begins following her once she passes the van.

I received note at 6:53 EDT, that Michele just recently went through her first time station in Lake Henshaw. We all know she is racing strong and her crew is making sure she eats accordingly and takes breaks when she needs them. I should keep getting updates throughout the evening.

Erin

Last Prep Day

2010-06-07T15:45:00.000-07:00

Erin: Today has been the last day to prep for tomorrow's official start to the RAAM 2010 race. Michele and her crew have attended informational meetings designated for the crew and the racer. All of these meetings discuss rider safety, where they talk about how some roads can become narrow and somewhat dangerous. Michele's crew decided that the entire team would greatly benefit from attending the meetings together. Her crew chief, Sara has pulled together an amazing group of people to be apart of Michele's crew; They are doing everything in their power to ensure that Michele has a safe and utterly successful race. Rider safety is the highest of priority throughout these long and intense races; Sara and the rest of the crew have assisted Michele in gathering all supplies and equipment needed to get her to the finish line.

Michele is pumped up and ready to get on the bike and start pedaling. She has a top of the line crew, equipped with two sports-massage therapists to ensure her body stays strong the entire race. Let's all wish her the best of luck and hope she reaches the goal she has set for herself. GO MICHELE!

sat 6/5/10 FUN:) Prep day in now SUNNY,CA

2010-06-05T14:04:00.000-07:00

In Danville,CA & the sun is shining and the laughter plenty. Sorting & Packing at Pia & Chris's gorgeous huge place. Gr8 Barbeque last night, cinnamon apples and french toast this am. Yummy chicken salad - homemade of course and veges for lunch. I have even had a great massage and half hour ride this am and plan to be on rollers this pm. YES MY TEAM ROCKS!!! I plan to rock the pedals all the way this time to say thanks to my 09 and 10 teams.

Great Barbeque & gr8 laughs

2010-06-04T21:18:00.000-07:00

WOW!!! Relaxed, calm wisdom with a lot of laughter and stories from adventures. What a team from Home Base Redwood City to Chris and Pia's new home base in Danville where we arrived safely with our 2 2010 vans at 4pm to a wonderful garden setting. The best barbeque I have had in years!!!! and that is no exaggeration!!!! My stomach and heart are really full of gratitude and peace.

Thanks to Erin who is also being a huge part of the team with updates. Photos will come tomorrow PST as Sara is keeping the East Coast crew up with rules of the road. I have a feeling it is going to be a gooood goood night by Black Eyed Peas. We are now chasing the Blue Crabs of Virginia which is there local delicacy. Lots of love & appreciation to all Michele

Only a Few Days Left Til The Race Begins

2010-06-04T13:55:00.000-07:00

Erin: I am the daughter of Michele's Raam 2010 Crew Chief, Sara and will be keeping everyone up to date on what is going on throughout the entire course of the race. Now the race doesn't begin until Tuesday, June 8th at 12pm PDT, but the entire crew has flown into San Francisco to help gather all supplies needed for the upcoming race. Sara, Champe, Karen, and Alex flew in early in the afternoon to meet up with Michele to load up all of the supplies and equipment needed. Not too long ago, they all headed out to Chris' house to meet him and Pia (other two crew members) out in the San Francisco East Bay.

Today is just the start of the entire team coming together to finish up last minute details on the race and make sure Michele is pumped up and excited to race. The entire crew is making sure that they have everything they need from bike parts to an extra pair of clean socks. Michele has done just what she's needed to do to train and prepare herself for Raam 2010. I'll keep everyone updated daily on the few days before the race, and will be posting many detailed updates once the race begins. Have a good weekend and check back for more information.

June 2010 & TIME TO PEDAL to ANNAPOLIS

2010-06-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

WOW!! Raam 2010 is here. Time seems to have become a blurr and I am not even sleep deprived yet.
Gratitude to all those that have encouraged, supported and assisted me to getting to this point of attempting Raam 2010. The plan is to put a big FULL STOP in Anapolis on June 21 by 06h00AM PST and to celebrate Sunday 27 June in the evening. Watch this space for details and updates which will also be linked to my facebook page.

My prep has included: Brevets: 300km, 2 x 400km, 1000km- Double Centuries: Butterfield, Mullholland, Solvang, Devil Mountain Double (with Stage 2 Amgen Breakaway century the next day) & Davis double. Multiple centuries and chase group/time trial rides during the week with few velodrome sessions for a little sharpening to keep me peddaling. I also trust all the wonderful memories of continuing my ride solo and unsupported last year will fuel my legs to pedal through this amazing country for one more time: The statues of Monument valley, mile markers of the rockies, rollers of Kansas with it heat and wind, the picturesque houses of Missouri, the Rollercoaster Ozarks and the Appalachians with the never appearing summits but long twisty descents and then the BIG BLUE OCEAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The plan is to make this a complaint free ride as I found a wrist band with it on. I will be riding my Orbea and Sycip with the Selle Anatomica saddles. A triple cassette on my Sycip and a compact on My Orbea. The plan is to ride 250 miles a day and to get out of CA before dawn on Wed 9 June. I then hope to go on a 05h0 to 01h00 sleep schedule. I have 3 massage therapists and 2 very capable bike gurus on my team.
I will be riding miles for the kids that I work with and all children who so valiantly overcome the horrendous challenges and obstacles that childhood cancer throws at them. I have many songs from the children and colleagues that I work with that I will be using for motivation.

Thanks again to all who view this and send their support. I hope to upload photos of my incredibly well qualified team soon. The arrive tomorrow at SFO, 2 are on the East Bay.

Lots of love- Michele- Milipede(= Shongololo in SA- many legs to get me to my destination)

Crew desired for 6/6- 20, 2010 CA - MD

2009-12-30T22:21:00.000-08:00

Hi All

Please forward this to anyone who may be interested.
I am attempting Raam solo again but am required to have 6 crew for support.

My solo ride across america taught me a huge amount that I want to put into practise in 2010. My ride was a privelege that I would not have been able to enjoy had I got to Anapolis this year. I learned that I can ride in the snow even if it be cautiously. That I dont go as fast on my own as when I am against a clock.

Kentucky was the one state I call wildly wonderful that I did in October. November I cycled with my triathlon Team Sheeper from Palo Alto to San Diego and used my one long weekend chance per month hence completing in December in Yorktown and having snow and a friend to meet me.
Thanks to each follower of this blog for all your support.
Michele

learning process

2009-12-13T21:09:00.000-08:00

I will try to find a way to upload all my trans america photos in a more easy to view and compact way. Please e mail me if you would like to see specific photos. Thanks again especially to Mr WOnderful David Bradley and Anthony GIlbert for their continued support.

2009-12-13T09:31:00.001-08:00

2009-12-13T09:29:00.001-08:00

yorktown,VA 08h00 12/8/09

2009-12-13T09:21:00.000-08:00

Yes I arrived in Yorktown for the most beautiful sunrise. I am speechless.
I arrived in Williamsburg on a very cold and dark Monday night. I stayed there so I could enjoy my finale ride on Colonel Parkway to Yorktown. I was greeted by an ice free beautiful morning.
As is my custom I paused to take a photo of the welcome sign. WHile getting my bike situated as proof for my shot, the local sherrif stopped & offered to take my picture.

Lots of stories will get posted in the days to come. Meanwhile here are some photos. Please enjoy. Please accept my sincerest appreciation for each person's support on this great adventure. It has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated.

Carbondale,Ill 9/15

2009-09-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

Hi

Again back to normality. Imiss the challenges of the oppen rd. Well 2.5 states left. I had an awsome time cycling through the ozark mountains. My accomodation varied from a motel room that I was worried about drinking the water to staying in a 5 star pheasant hunting lodge where labs and retrievers were bred. This was 2 miles on a dirt rd outside Everton a very small town with a small gen store that I did not see on the main st or gas stn. In farmington I stayed in the newly renovated Jail house with another adventure cyclist I met on the way. We had chinese for dinner that was close to awful.
I flew out of +St Louis airport,mo at 7am and was home cycling with a friend by noon. Again I was blessed with incredible weather and angels going before me. My rear shifter broke on Monday morning outside of farmington but I told myself as long as I could pedal to keep doing so. Hence My bike is sleeping at Carbondale cycle shop as I got in there as they were closing.

I had a lot of fun and fear crossing the Missisippi on a narrow 2 lane bridge waving so all including the 18 wheelers would see me.

Thanks for all who are reading this

Michele

9/11- pittsburg,KS

2009-09-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hi All

Sorry for the break in comms. I had to go back to work after last entry. I flew to Wichita, Kansas yesterday where Becky collected me and returned me to my bike in Eureka. Cycled 60 miles into Chanute. Stayed in $30 motel the other side of town. More rundown than a youth hostel but clean. My title states which library this is being typed from. I hope to get to Marshfield, Mo another 90 miles from here by tonight. I did 10 x 2 min int as per john howard suggestions of getting hr to 155 -160ie 86% of max 220-40.. I will be back at work wed 15 sept and hope to continue on OCt 17. I will try to keep updates. Keep smiling Michele

Fri in Kansas

2009-08-21T14:53:00.000-07:00

Make Hay while the sunshines is the quote of the day. Lots of hay and lots of sunshine. My legs look like overgrown elongated beets. My thighs still have the flab. I was hoping some would melt. I also decided to share with you that when an oncoming semi passes it feels like a huge ocean wave washing or smashing your rhythm while swimming.
I am in the heart of Kansas typing from Ness city and going to spend the night at a Cycling Oasis 12 miles up the road in Bezine. I met 2 more wonderful cycling guys going west bound. Apparently there is a weird guy 1 day ahead of me and a recumbent also about 1 day ahead of me. Today will be shorter due to large distances of little support services and accom options tomorrow or once I leave Bazine.
I am erring on the side of caution and sensibility as I had a tough/rough morning today but got a lot better with my tea and honey and ginseng elixer that I found at a gas station in scott city. Yummy!!! No HFCS and then chatting with the cycling buddies makes this trip feel like a brevet ride or one happy cycling family treasure hunt.

my heart is full .....Eads,co

2009-08-20T13:33:00.000-07:00

HI All

Wow What an incredible privelege. I am meeting the most incredible people hence the title of todays blog is based on a song "My heart is full, my love just keeps on growing here by the grace of God I ride." I tweeked the words a little. I did not have much sleep last night but fantastic hospitality all bei it a bit strange and ghost like in appearance. It is lucky I have such a strong faith so not to worry too much but my antennae and radar were working overtime. I think I was more exhausted than I realised too. I got into Boone at 7pm and stopped to look at a map. There were couches outside the post office and troughs of water. Larry appeared and asked where I was heading and said there was no way I would make it by nightfall to ORdway. I was however glad to be out of Pueblo- not a place one needs to visit. He showed me the adventure cycling cards and notebooks and offered hospitality and laundry. It all turned out like an unbelivable dream that kept me laughing many miles this am. It was especially funny that I had thought if someone offers me hospitality in Boone I would take it. It appeared. I am in heat and headwinds of the high plains of Co into Ka probably until I fly out.

Keep smiling all,Michele

tue8/17 salida,co

2009-08-18T21:27:00.000-07:00

Hi all

I got a 13 hr day in seeing the last of the big climbs through the rockies. I started out from montrose at 6h30 with my Big Mac Breakfast burrito, not quite enough to get me 20 miles with some climbing.
I got to Salida at 8pm after a big 10 mile climb 3000 ft elevation of Monarch Pass at 11 100 ft after riding 100 miles. It was toouch and go whether I would be able to get over as 3hrs before I got to the base, a massive storm rolled through but I ended up with a tail wind helping me until I got to the summit where I could hardly stand up and wondered if I would be safe getting down but lots of layers later Hammer Jacket and Showers Pass jacket were great and a hammer bar all was fine. It was the last of the climbs through the rockies. Now it is flat until close to east coast. I am staying with a lovely biking family from warm showers.com. I hope to get to ordway tomorrow night in Kansas.

aug 17/09 montrose,co

2009-08-17T17:48:00.000-07:00

Well I said to all my wonderful raam 09 supporters to "watch this space on 21 June 09". Race across america 09 has changed to ride across america 09. The ride recommenced exactly 2 months after raam 09 solo females started. I flew into durango,co yesterday. I had a variety of obstacles with incredibly positive outcomes but some delays for me to get to my target destination. Today I cycled approx 100 miles up Hwy 550 to Montrose. I have 2 paniers bags thanks to velogirls cycling coach Lorri. Each bags weighs 10 pounds with emergency food & spare clothing and a camelback for water. I climbed up to 10 & 11 000 ft elevation on 3 different mountain passes each of 4miles long. The weather was superb. The scenery spectacular. There is another big climb tomorrow and I not a lot of accomodation in the next 50+ miles. At 5h30 pm in montrose I decided i would climb stronger and ride faster with an early start. My days are due to start at dawn around 6 am. The reason for this ride in case you are wondering is to train for a possible raam 2010, to find my love for the bike and my joy. I think I am on the right road to fullfill these. I am following the adventure cycling assoc route now. I hope to get to york town,VA before the end of the year. I will be back at work in 9 days time a week from wed Ie 8/27.

Thank you for following and your support. I got myself a camera before I left. I will try to post photos on my return

Keep smiling and having fun

Michele

Photos to Look at !!

2009-07-14T11:21:00.000-07:00

I have posted new photos in the Flickr Gallery (link on the left). I requested crew to send in pictures from the race to add to the Gallery. Andre sent to a CD (Thanks Andre) with over a hundred pictures, most of which I added to the gallery. Click on the link on the left, (Shongololo Express Pictures, click on picture), then when the new window opens click on the set link on the right (Raam 2009 (Set) ) to open all the pictures. There is an option near the top to view as a slideshow or view as individual photos. Sorry there isn't captions on the photos but I think that will have to wait until I can have a crew member view them. I will add more photos when I received them and post a notice to that effect here. Enjoy. David Bradley

A few comments

2009-06-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Since I've been posting I thought I would give you a few thoughts about Michele's effort and DNF (did not finish).

Michele is a heck of an athlete. To complete RAAM is a huge accomplishment. As I told Michele today only the very best in the sport are good enough to fail at RAAM. The statistics say that 50% of all solos who enter will DNF. What other sport do half of all who enter not finish? In RAAM you race against the course, not just the other racers. To be the very last person to cross the finish line is still a high honor. To qualify to enter the race is an honor.

There are many many things in RAAM that must go right in order to complete the race. Being well trained and fit isn't good enough. You must have good crew, equipment, logistics, training, and a fair amount of luck. With everything lined up, best of equipment, well trained, experienced talented crew, sometimes it just doesn't work. Michele had all the things she needed, except may experience in RAAM. I don't know what the DNF rate for rookies is but I'm sure it is a lot higher than 50%. You can bet Michele learned a lot from this crossing. In RAAM you will learn things about yourself that you can't get anywhere else. I know Michele did. Lessons learned.

In my opinion Michele put out a huge effort. A try worthy of all the effort needed to even get to the start line.

I think we can all be proud of how much Michele accomplished and I expect that she will be back.

Thank you all for the supporting messages you sent. Michele loved them and know that they did help her get down the road.

David Bradley

michele's update

2009-06-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

HI All incredible supporters

I write from the rain of Pagosa Springs. Raam is a journey very different from any other I have been on. It has not finished in fact I think it has just started but will take longer than just 10 days to complete. I never knew I could stay on a bike while pedalling so slowly the last few miles.

I will write more once we are packed and I can think a little more clearly. I just wanted to let everyone know how much I appreciated their support and look forward to supporting IJM more during this journey and giving my corporate sponsors some more exposure.

Thank you sincerely to my crew for getting me this far.

Michele

Saturday AM Update

2009-06-20T05:27:00.000-07:00

Just a short update withTime Station numbers.

Michele arrived in TS 14 Durango Colorado yesterday at 19:36 for a total of 814 miles. Michele's average for this section was 9.49 mph with an overall average of 10.74 for the 814 miles. This one of several difficult sections in the Rockies with 3 climbs, each with only a small descent as the reward. So each time a climb is completed you basically get to start another after only a small break. The final climb tops out at 8416'. Michele will be passing many ski resorts in this area. Hmmmm. Michele then got to make a descent into Durango, lossing 2000' of elevation in the process. It is a long, fast, and technical descent that can leave a racer just as tired as the climbs.

From Durango Michele then headed to the next Time Station of TS 15 Pagosa Springs, CO. Miles into the race of 884 and an elevation 7619. Don't be fooled the numbers, while it is a 1422' elevation gain in 70 miles there is more to the route than the numbers suggest. The first half of the route is very saw tooth with many climbs and descents, gradually descending until around the mid point of the section. At that point it is all up uphill until Pagosa Springs. There is very little opportunity on this section for the racer to rest and recover. Remember that all of this is being done in the hours of darkness, which seems to make every hill longer, every turn sharper, the cold colder (at 6000-8000' I think it really is). Then there is all the wildlife that decide that now is a great time to dash across the road, in front, behind, and sometimes in between a lone racer. This is usually awe inspiring when climbing at night, to have a huge multi point elk bound across the road in front of you while climbing, it can be very scary when it happens on descents. Michele reported in at Pagosa Springs at 05:48 with an average speed of 6.88 mph for the section and 10.28 mph average for the race.

Between Pagosa Springs and Taos, NM is 160 more miles, mostly mountains, including the Continental Divide in New Mexicao and two major passes over 10.000' in elevation, Cumbres Pass, and La Manga Pass, the highest elevation on the RAAM route at 10,250'.

David Bradley

Michele Arrives in Colorado

2009-06-19T12:25:00.000-07:00

Michele has checked in at TS 13, Cortez, CO some 769.2 miles into the race. Her speed has picked up to 9.92 for this section which if you look at the profile I have shown above and consider that she is 700 plus miles into this race doesn't seem that bad. It looks like Michele is over her quad issues and is moving well. Her problem in now one of time lost. She does absolutely need to maintain a strong pace to avoid the time cut off. That will be difficult with the next several Time Stations all having significant climbs. If she can stay on the bike and keep a strong pace then she can make the cut off in Taos, NM. After that she enters flat lands and has a chance to win back some of that lost time. We all really need to pull hard for Michele. I know she wants it and it is not going to be easy!

While I did not get any first hand accounts of last night's weather conditions I understand that the Monument Valley area was pretty difficult for racers with high winds blowing as reported by Vic's Raam Blog which you to can link to here. edited this section as the picture I guess is not Michele and Adrienne's backsides....ok no jokes.

Long night Bright Morning

2009-06-19T05:38:00.000-07:00

For those who are doing the math, yes Michele's pace had dropped off yesterday evening. Michele was experiencing some issues with her quad muscles. Some rest and massage therapy guided by her awesome massage therapist via cell phone in the wee hours of the morning (thank you Anthony) and Michele is back on the road. A motel stop with showers was also appreciated by the crew in Mexican Hat, Ut. Adrienne reported by cell phone this morning that Michele was riding well up a slight incline at 14 mph. A good sign. This is a tough race, no racer is immune from problems out there.

Michele pasted Mexican Hat UT (679.5) at 01:48 this morning and has one more TS before entering Colorado. Lots climbing to go. Michele's average speed has dropped to 11.79 mph. Remember that in order to complete the 3022 miles race in the 12 days set by RAAM Michele must average 10.5 mph average. With the mountains of Colorado and New Mexico it will be important that Michele maintain a strong pace to Taos, NM is which in addition to being the 1000 mile mark is also a time cut off.

Michele has received your many messages and greatly enjoyed them. Please keep posting them. Note that the crew rarely has internet andso can't read the blog directly. As a result I have passed the your messages to Michele's crew via cell phone text message. Please try and not be too wordy or long winded. Not that Michele wouldn't love long messages but the technology just isn't up to it.

The crew is in good spirits. A motel shower will often do that for you! In addition I understand that there has been much singing and harmonizing. One crew has be reported to be sporting a kilt, while another has taken on the role of crew mom. All of the crew are performing their duties with exceptional skill and courage. Michele is cared for by a well oiled machine.

Today's progress will tell us much about how Michele is doing.

David Bradley

2009-06-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

The following is a post (lifted, sorry Vic) from Vic Armijo on the Raam Website. Vic is a raam reporter and a friend of mine and crew member Winston (small world).

HELLO DOLLY

VIC'S RAAMIFICATIONS

HELLO DOLLY!
Kayenta, Arizona
June 18, 2009

We media types always have deep questions for RAAM riders; What motivates you? What do you eat? When will you sleep?

But what I most wanted to ask Michelle Santilhano after seeing her today just outside of Monument Valley, is; "What's that doll on you handlebars?

The fun-loving South African will surely have a logical if not whimsical answer. These and other burning questions will be answered soon, very soon.

Headed to Utah and Colorado

2009-06-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

Michele passed through Prescott, Az last night (396.7 miles) and hit TS 8 Flagstaff (491.1) at 9:02 raam time this morning. While I haven't heard from the crew I'm sure there was a rest break in there. Yuba City AZ is the next time station at 563 miles which Michele pass at 14:13. This is a much faster leg for Michele with an aveage speed of 13.87 mph for the segment and and overall average of 12.12 mph. Remember as Robert mentioned that these averages include any time off the bike. Raam is a non stop race.

From here Michele will enter Utah just past TS 10, Kayenta, AZ (634.7 miles) and head for Mexican Hat, Ut TS 11 (679 miles). They are now near the Four Corners area and will be headed for Colorado after passing TS 12, Montezuma Creek, UT. The racers will be encountering a lot more climbing and speeds will typically drop. In the next couple of days the racers will have to climb a number of high mountain passes including La Manga Pass, which is over 10,000'. Compare that the the lowest elevation of 190 feet below sea level Michele rode through just before TS 2 Brawley, CA. Right now as she approaches Utah Michele is riding in the 6000' elevation area. Just after her next TS Kayenta, Michele will ride through Monument Valley which of course will make for a beautiful ride.

What do all these numbers on the RAAM website mean?

2009-06-18T08:14:00.001-07:00

Hello,

I have been actively following the race by reading the RAAM websites postings for times at the different time stations. The race is broken up into legs between time stations, they are not all the same distance or the same geographically. Some legs will have alot of climbing others will be flatter. The total distance of the race is 3021 miles, the allowed time to complete is 12 days. So if you do the math the minimum speed to complete is just about 10.5 mph. This may not seem like much but the clock does not stop running so rest/sleep breaks are factored into this average speed. The way I look at it is that Michele needs to do about 250 miles per day, now some days will be easier with less elevation gain and others as she ascends the Rockies or makes her way across West Virginia will be harder. So if she gets good days in the flatter states she creates a time cushion for herself for the nastier days. Don't worry if you see her speed between time stations looking slow, it is probably that she had some off bike time which drags that number down. The plan is for her to only be off the bike 4 hrs maximum per 24 hrs. This is an aggressive plan and surprises will come up requiring her to sometimes go over this number. Right now I am liking her progress, this part of the race is tough, she just completed a pretty hard climb to TS #8. All the times in RAAM are in Eastern Standard Time from the very beginning, so no need to do any math there. The official start time for those doing their own calculations was Tuesday the 16th at 15:47 (that is 3:47pm for you non 24 hr clock folks). There are some cut off times along this course since it is understood that if a rider does not get to a certain point within a proscribed amount of time it is unlikely they will finish within the 12 days. We will keep a close eye on these and I will fill you in later on how that is going. David is extremely knowledgeable about this also, so he may chime in with his own read on things or correct me if I have made a mistake in my explanation. One of Michele's crew accidentally called me at 5 AM this morning looking to find out if I had procured the water heater coil (no idea what that was about-hopefully nothing serious)? I am pretty sure Michele doesn't have one of those on her bike despite it being very well outfitted. This really two races, one is a race against the clock and of course the other is against your competitors who in reality start to feel like family and comrades even though you would love to beat them to the line. To finish the race within the alotted time is a major accomplishment, the reality being that most starters do not finish. The race between racers is a carrot on the course to keep you going and makes it more fun for all of us watching from afar. Check out the men's race on the RAAM site, it is shaping up to be a fast one.

ciao for now,

GO MICHELE!

robert

Day 2 Late Afternoon - almost to TS#6

2009-06-17T17:05:00.001-07:00

Hi there,

Adrienne just called she is just up for her next shift and reports that Michele is cooking along at 16 mph steady. Micheles stomach has been a little dicey but the trooper she is has not let that stop her as everyone learns how to keep her nutrition optimal in these early days, these issues usually sort themselves out the farther along one gets in the race as the body adapts (those that are eating real food - no accounting for the riders using the powder junk which is a crap shoot at best). They stopped awhile ago for a quick rest and a shower but not for a real sleep break. The other two women Daniela and Janet passed her during this break. It is looking like the tortoise and the two hairs at this point, Michele just keeps it going and the other two rest more and then charge ahead. As the race plays out this strategy will be more difficult to sustain since the bodies ability to charge ahead at higher speeds over multiple days starts to fade. Michele has been in great spirits and should be into TS #6 in just a few minutes.

ciao for now, may the force be with her

Robert (David's brother in blogging crime)

Day two on RAAM

2009-06-17T07:33:00.000-07:00

The sun is up on the racers and Michele has reached Time Station 4, Salome, AZ. Michele arrived at Blythe, CA Time Station this morning at 5:15 am (again, raam time EST) which is on the Arizona / California boarder. 2 am local is a good time to ride through that part of the country. Michele arrived 24 and 30 minutes behind the lead two women racers (Janet Christiansen and Daniela Genovesi respectively)in Blythe.

As of right now the RAAM website shows Michele checking in at Salome, AZ TS 4 at 10:10 am with a total mileage of 293.7 miles for an average of 15.98 mph. This reflects a drop in overall mph but is no doubt a reflection of a short sleep break. The other ladies in the race have either not checked in at TS 4 or RAAM does not have their times in their system. So Michele may be leading the field of solo women at this point. They still have a very long way to go but so far it looks like Michele is riding a good strong steady race. The best way to reach the finish line.

Adrienne just called and confirmed that Michele has passed both Janet and Daniela.

David Bradley

Raam has started

2009-06-16T19:54:00.000-07:00

At 12 pm (PST) the Women RAAM racers and Men Masters (60 +) began their epic race from Oceanside, CA to Annapolis, MD. All times are reported in RAAM time (EST, military) and I will stay with that convention.

Michele reached the first Time Station in Lake Hensaw, CA at 18:50 today. A total of 54.5 miles in 3 1/2 hours for an average speed of 17.87 mph.

Crew Chief Adrienne called me from past Time Station 1 at Christmas Tree Circle, in Borrego Springs, CA which is a designated support area for crew to service racers. Adrienne reported that Michele was riding well, eating and drinking as she should be (very important in Ultra races). So far things seem to be going according to plan for Michele.

Past experience says after the first night most racers and crew get into the rhythm of what they are doing, they are find was is working and what isn't, with the crew making adjustments.

I'll post more as I hear it.

David Bradley

wow

2009-06-14T16:56:00.000-07:00

My head is buzzing with so much love and support from this incredible raam family from race directors and staff giving me hugs and good wishes to my own ULTRA Amazing crew who just treat me like a queen 24/7. I do hope I can pedal my appreciation for them. Thanks Dave for doing such a great job as Ground Chief & logistician. I know Adrienne appreciates it HUGELY. I got to a local church this morning which was really nice and calming.
Dave is running errands to Ace hardware and tried to go to a junk yard for a spare tyre but they would not let him due to him having only trail run tevas on. Adrienne has been working in such an incredibly calm and highly professional manner on more logistics than I could imagine. She makes most Professional Mountain Guides look meek.

It is hard being so close to the sparkling ocean with no long swim training planned. I hope to get a qucik dip in the Atlantic before flying back to the pacific. The dream plan is to have arrived on the Atlantic Seaboard of Anapolis in time for an evening church service 2 weeks today.

Thank you to the wonderful parents of Mandy who have so kindly secured some wonderful additional medical items. I do hope they keep me on the bike without being used.

Andre and Chris have been beavering away. Chris and I enjoyed a seeweed salad with our sushi this afternoon. Mandy made us indulge in cold stone creamery ice cream. I am looking forward to burning off some of these calories.

We are due to leave on a scouting trip of the route. I am on a rest day of my training. I missed 2 training rides earlier this week due to the stress of last minute preparations. I am really glad we came down here when we did. I was in bed by 9h30pm last night and plan to do the same for the next 2 nights.

Well Thanks all to who are reading.

Hugs to all

Michele

A Word from she Chiefs

2009-06-14T07:15:00.001-07:00

Good Morning All,

Adrienne and Tanner here, in not-quite-so-sunny California. Lots to do today. We had a great first crew meeting last night. We'll finalize logistical details today. RAAM Headquarters opens this afternoon, so we look forward to seeing the whole RAAM gang. Waiting round Oceanside is always the hardpart, so we can't wait to get this show on the road.

We met Herman Bachmann (solo rider) and his crew last night as dinner. It was exciting to see others being excited.

Y'all will mainly be hearing from David as we proceed eastward.

A huge thank you to David for all of his blogging and countless thankless other tasks he has done and will do to get us to Annapolis!

Adrienne and Tanner (Chief and Ass Chief)

2009-06-13T09:12:00.000-07:00

David here, ground support. I've been in communication with the team and they have gathered equipment, vehicles, and personnel, organized it all and are headed in the direction of Oceanside. Everything sounds well with no major crisis at this point (hey, it's RAAM, never count out a crisis). Last I heard they were passing Gilroy and threatening to put Michele out of the van an make her ride....nah, they wouldn't do that would they???
The team pictured here: Left to Right are Andre, Tanner, Michele, Adrienne, Mandy, Winston, and Chris

Seriously the team seems to be coming together very well. Great attitudes and a lot of raw talent. Michele is in very good hands. The team is especially happy with the rental vans they received and have them ship shape. A dozen days on the road living in the vans and that becomes very important.

I will make post as I hear them from the team and maybe a picture or two as it works out.

David Bradley

Thank you to all my 2009 Raam sponsors

2009-05-28T21:02:00.000-07:00

Hi To All Raam Supporters

I just want to say a Huge thank you to the following companies for all there generous assistance with this event. I sincerely appreciate every effort. You logos will be appearing shortly.

Sycip Bicyles, Sheila Moon, Blackbottoms, Showerspass, Breathplay, Vespa Power Products, Rob @ West County Revolution, Bike Connection and the many individual sponsors to support the incredible work of International Justice Mission to stop Forced Prostitution of Minors.

Thank you seems so little but it is my goal to pedal my gratitude to Annapolis in honor of your generosity.

Thanks again

Michele

6/16/09 Solo Raam 300hrs

2009-05-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

6/16- 300hr Solo Raam

Hi All, Many of you know, I am embarking on the annual Race Across America (RAAM) starting Tuesday June 16, 2009 at noon (PST) in Oceanside CA. I am duly excited and suitably nervous of cycling 3000 miles in 10 to 12 days straight with a total of 100,000 ft. of climbing! The steepest section being the Appalachian’s for the final 200 miles as I complete the ride into Annapolis, MD.

For me RAAM is about inspiring others and gleaning from the courage of my true heroes—the kids I engage with as a children’s cancer nurse. My RAAM endeavour will also be used as a platform to heighten awareness around the compelling work of International Justice Mission (www.IJM.com). My ride will raise money to support IJM’s efforts to fight sex trafficking of minors with a special emphasis on combating forced child prostitution.

The following paragraph highlights a few creative ways that YOU can be involved without injury.

1) Check out my website http://www.firstgiving.com/raceacrossamerica to contribute and stay connected to future emails/updates of my progress.

2) We will have a laptop in the vans to get and receive emails and a blog will be set up within a few weeks. Stay tuned for the link…

3) Send me a paragraph about a particular time station and what it means to you. If it is chosen in the first week of June as a winner, I may name that time station after you. The time stations are on the RAAM website (www.Raceacrossamerica.org)

4) Send me the title of one or more of your favourite clean & FAST paced, GREAT spinning songs. I have 300 hrs of cycling ahead. I need to keep or increase my cadence as I go!

Most importantly, your support & friendship means so much to me that I would really appreciate you responding to this e-mail if you would like to remain on my RAAM support team.

Thank you so much for taking the time and interest to check out these amazing websites and make a difference in the world by your support of my RAAM endeavour!

Michele

Finally......I start to blog

2008-06-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

Wow - what a year. I have just come back from a great 27 mile easy rd run in prep for badwater. I think it is all about having a real vacation. I seem to have returned from my 4person 8 day race across america so very refreshed mentally despite feeling like I have a lot of sleep to catch up on. Maybe it is my age creeping up on me. Yes I did turn a whole year older the day before we left Oceanside for Arizona. But I am still in my 30's long may they last.

I have just been offered a chance to do my triple ironman again and I guess as I dont have time, date and or opportunity for a regular ironman I may end up doing it if God makes a way for work to give me the permission. Watch this space for final outcome. Well good for now. I will try to get word out about this blog. Thanks to all who read it and leave positive and motivational comments.