Fat Boy Says He’s Ready

It’s impossible to know if you’ve done enough to prepare, but I think I’m ready. All systems are go for Friday, July 23rd.

Since January 1, I’ve racked up 68 rides and 51 gym workouts. Down 13 pounds to 185 and feeling strong.

I won’t lie to you – recent conversations with Gary Ekegren and Mick Spane, the two guys I’m riding for who have pancreatic – have left me a lot more emotional about this ride than I ever imagined. I don’t want to let down Mick or Gary, or anyone else who has pledged a donation or provided support. One way or another, it’s going to be a memorable day.

I broke my 292 last week and that pushed my stress level through the roof. Even Thomas and Jeff couldn’t put Humpty back together again. Paul came to the rescue, offering his Turner Sultan. I gave it a test ride at Ape Canyon on Saturday and at Growlers on Monday, and it performed beautifully.

My ride crew has been unbelievable throughout. These guys have made it clear that they will do whatever is necessary to get me to the finish line. They have worked on my bike, helped me with training, and volunteered to assist with driving and shuttling. On top of that, most of them have to take a day off from work for this event, so I greatly appreciate their commitment. They will take turns pacing me and will carry extra gear in case of emergency. We will also have at least one mechanic on each leg.

Two medical professionals will be on hand – although in the past their diagnosis and treatment have been limited to incredibly helpful statments like, “Yep, you really screwed yourself up. It’s probably going to hurt a lot.”

Here’s the plan. Departure time is 2:45 a.m. Anticipated mileage = 63.2 miles. Anticipated time to finish = 12 to 14 hours. Anticipated energy burn = 10,000 calories.

• Ape Canyon: Out-and-back to the north side for a total of 15.4 miles.
• Blue Lake: Blue Lake trailhead to Red Rock to the Kalama Horse Camp for 8.5 to 9.0 miles.
• Lewis River: Out-and-back to the Lower Falls for 22.2 miles.
• Falls Creeek: Oldman Pass to the campground for 17.1 miles.

Thanks to everyone who has pledged a contribution. My initial goal was to raise $3,000. We recently topped $6,500!

If you would still like to make a donation to Friends of the Castle Rock Library, Girls on the Run of Southwest Washington, or CurePC(Pancreatic Cancer).org, it’s not too late. Just let me know which organization and how much. I will contact you later with directions for payment. All money goes directly to the organizations.

I’m tired of talking about it, and I’m sure you’re tired of hearing about it.

As Marvin used to say, “Let’s get it on.”