Saturday, October 24, 2009

Day 16 - Newport Beach to San Diego





















HOME AT LAST (It's me Brent writing this, not my ghost writer)

Mikey Mac and I rode the 70 miles together today. Finishing the ride with my very good friend was special to me. Mike has been there from the beginning to the end of this ride, though the planning, preparation, and ups and downs. It meant so much that he was there to finish it with me.

The ride was pretty uneventful for the first 45 miles until we found out that we couldn't ride through Camp Pendleton due to road construction. "Sign Guy", Don Parker, used his connections with the San Diego Sheriff Search and Rescue team to get us an escort on the I5. It was very nerve-racking riding with such a big group on the shoulder of the road.

Throughout the entire ride I did a lot of reflecting on where I've been and where I want to be. Then once I got to Torrey Pines Hill, I let it all go, I attacked the hill and was able to ride up it faster than I ever had before. We regrouped at a quarter of a mile from the finish line so we could all ride in together. Finishing the ride was bitter-sweet. It was hard ending a great adventure, but rewarding seeing my family, the families of my fellow riders and all the challenged athletes. It was awesome for my mother to see and talk to the challenged athletes that were there. It gave her the opportunity to see great attitudes and the potential they have when dealing with the same challenges.

At this time I'd like to thank all those who helped with my adventure. Andrea, thank you for always being there for me, standing by me when I come up with crazy ideas, and supporting me. You are the true love of my life. Without you, none of this would have been able to happen.

Miles ridden today: 70
Total to date: 1152

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