Claire's Ride for a Reason Blog

2008-06-24T07:06:00.004-04:00

Claire's Ride 2008 was another awesome RIDE!!!

We had an awesome KickOff Dinner on the eve of the ride provided to by our Hosts Maryann and Don. It was a PASTA Extravaganza!

On Saturday morning all the riders (Don Tomaszewski, Don Van Teyens, Tony Van Grouw & John Burke met at Claire's Garden. We departed at approximately 5:30 a.m. It had rained overnight so it was a little damp and cool which suited the riders. All in all the adrenaline was a pumping and everyone was anxious to get going.

The ride began and within the first mile or so JB (John Burke) suffered a rear flat. Not a good sign but better to get it out of the way. The flat repaired the riders were on their way down Ringwood Avenue. The ride took the group through the hills of Butler and Boonton. A very scenic route but challenging due to the long inclines. But we all know if there is an incline there is a decline which was always welcome. It appeared as if JB was the guy going to be roughed up this day. Leg cramps started around mile 15 for JB but he continued on with the assistance of his fellow riders.

The riders were approaching the end of the first leg when the next incident took place. Apparently down near Bedminister the Railroad Crossings have beautiful gates which they don't have to use unless they want to. The riders were approaching a RailRoad Crossing when a Rail Service Car was approaching. The gates were expected to come down as the train slowed to a stop just prior to the crossing. In the confusion that followed Don Tomaszewski braked and JB didn't and BAM! JB crashed into the NEW TREK MADONE and went flying landing on his head while knocking Don to the ground as well. Thankfully HELMETS are a must for our RIDERS and should be for all RIDERS. No major injuries other than a scrape, a bent spoke and a cracked helmet. Donnie questioned the brilliant rail employees who stated, "We Stop at All Crossings". Don questioned then why didn't the gates come down? No reply!

The riders continued on and connected with their SAG Wagons headed up by Maryann Tomaszewski and Trish Burke. The rest of the support staff included Carly & Katy Tomaszewski as well as Jenna & John Charles Burke. It was at this time our 5th Rider Gene Buonomo joined the ride. Better late than never (especially when you can avoid the hills of north Jersey...right Gene?)

The ride continued under Sunny Skies. It was a beautiful day for the ride. All was going well until the riders and SAG Staff ran into a Cycling Racing Event on Canal Road. The riders were allowed to continue on but the SAG had to detour...and the adventure began. The riders continued on without their support. Unfortunately, the SAG Staff was given poor directions for a detour and it was 1 hour and 30 minutes before they were able to meet up with the riders again around lunch time. This delay extended lunch and the day a bit longer than expected. The riders were able to get replenishment and even some home-made ice cream when they chatted up a store owner waiting for the SAG Wagon and lunch. When finally together again lunch was served and the riders off again.

The rest of the ride was incident free. There were stops at the Wood Shed where we met up with Don's Brother, Steve. The ride through Brendan Byrne State Forest/Pine Barrens. Who could forget the 19 mile flat leg in the beating sun. Once across the Mullica Bridge the riders were in the home stretch.

The riders arrived at the Cape May Lighthouse to a GRAND and WELL DESERVED WELCOME provided by The Van Teyens Family, The Buonomo Family, The Tomaszewski and The Burke Family. It goes without saying but The ENERGY from STEVE TOMASZEWSKI is AWESOME. Thanks Steve and we have to get you on a bike next year.

2007-07-02T20:54:00.000-04:00

Claire’s Ride for A Reason 2007 Cycling Event was an AWESOME EVENT. The bike tour, a 207 mile ride, from High Point State Park to Cape May, was completed in just under 12 hours (riding time).

In all, 7 Cyclists participated in the event which left from High Point State Park at about 6 a.m. and arrived at the Lighthouse in Cape May, NJ at about 9:30 p.m. Don Tomaszewski, Gene Buonomo and Bladdymir Coronel made it portal to portal (the entire 207 miles). In all, the riders accumulated over 1075 miles between 7 of them.

There was a bit of a chill (51 degrees) at the start but not cold enough to diminish the spirit of our cyclists. The chill soon gave way to a beautiful sunny day for a 200 mile ride. The day was just PERFECT! We couldn't have asked for better conditions. It was as if our Angel Claire was looking out for us (and she was).

Outside of a minor cycling collision (unsure if things got a little competitive between our lead cyclists), an 8 mile detour as the result of a missed turn, 5 flat tires and the sun going down leaving us in complete darkness, the event was an awesome experience with all cyclists posting personal bests for total mileage. The three cyclists who rode the entire distance averaged 17.4 mph while the others were not far behind at about 15.6 mph. That is an awesome pace for the number of miles put in. To all our riders....Congratulations for a job well done!!!!!

Don Tomaszewski
Gene Buonomo
Larry Sigua
Bladdymir Coronel
Ryan Roskilly
Laura Haftek
John Burke

The success of the day would not have been possible without the support of our "SAG" Wagons and staff. To continually ride around checking on all our cyclists, making sure they were hydrated and fueled and most importantly keeping us on route. A SPECIAL THANK YOU goes out to:

Maryann Tomaszewski
Carly Tomaszewski
Katy Tomaszewski
Ron Roskilly

Thank you to Tracey Buonomo and Steven Tomaszewski for being at the Cape May Lighthouse to welcome all the riders as they completed the High Point to Cape May in a Day Ride to Raise Awareness to SUDC in the name of Claire Tomaszewski. Another Special Thank You goes out to all our sponsors who unselfishly supported our cause in a variety of ways. Please visit our Sponsor Page to see who they are and don't forget to patronize those establishments.

Please don't forget that although this year's cycling event is completed we ask that all our website visitors and friends continue to RAISE AWARENESS to SUDC in the name of Claire Elizabeth Tomaszewski and if possible, forward any donations to

Claires Ride for A Reason/CJF
and mail to
Claire's Ride for A Reason
c/o 27 Pequot Road
Ringwood, NJ 07456

2007-06-29T22:23:00.000-04:00

Everyone arrived at the Comfort Inn in Port Jervis in tact. After settling in we all went to a local country style eating establishment and loaded up on some CARBS. For future reference shrimp should not be allowed to be sold more than 5 miles from the ocean. Just ask Katy.

Well it is 10:30 p.m. and most of us are too wound up to sleep but we have hit the rack. Probably won't hear from us again until halfway through the ride. Look for us at the local WAWA's who have been gracious enough to replenish us with food and fluids.

2007-06-29T17:56:00.000-04:00

It is the eve of our NJ Jaunt. At this very moment our riders are sitting down to a energizing meal and going over the details and logistics for tomorrows ride. And what a ride it will be.

We will try to update you as we crank it down to Cape May. May the wind be at our backs.

2007-06-28T14:18:00.000-04:00

Well, High Point to Cape May...In A Day is almost upon us. Should be very interesting to say the least.

We should have some interesting stories and events to tell you about during the one day excursion. We'll get an early start at around 5 a.m. from the monument at High Point State Park near Port Jervis. Our riders will be split into two groups of 4 each. Group 1/Team Claire is our more experienced group. Group 2/Team Lady Bug are our up and comers. No matter what the 200 mile trek in about 14-15 hours will be intense. Well gotta run...but check back. We'll have more to tell you about prior to our departure on June 30th.

2007-04-05T06:59:00.000-04:00

Well Our 2007 Event is almost upon us. Time to limber up those legs, inflate the tires and oil the chains.

Before we do that though we have our 2007 Comedy Show to Raise Awareness for SUDC.
If you haven't already surf on over to www.clairesride.org and download a Ticket Form to be mailed in for the show. It promises to be a great time.

Hope to see you there!

The Claire's Ride Team

2006-07-12T13:27:00.000-04:00

Some thoughts from Gene on the final leg of Claire's Ride for a Reason.

Wow what a day rolling out of Stroudsburg, PA this morning and heading fastfor the gap cannot wait to get home. Donnie rode the last miles togethertoday and all we kept saying is it’s almost over and we couldn’t believe we did it. It was a great day as usual, unseasonably cool which was great for bicycling. As we traversed the NJ and crossed over into all different parts we got very emotional and were screaming all the way. Getting back to pedaling we had lady bugs guiding us home. Things were happening along the way and just then and I wont go into too much detail but all I can say is I was un-consolably emotionally about the experience and I could not stop the tears because this was the end of our journey which ironically I did not want it to end, something about the finality of it all. It just hit us real hard. The entire effort and exactly what we did this for and there was a time when we were wondering if it was worth it. We never should have second guess ourselves. We see based on all of the support we have received and gracious comments that we are making a difference and now I’m happy that I was able to be there for you Donnie!!

We are going to ride as far as we can this morning. We did not speak for a short time we just wanted to get home, get to Hackensack University Medical Center for a few pictures and then down to meet our families and fellow riders in Foschini Park for a few pics. Finally, we could finish our journey with a short ride to Ringwood.
Wow! We are here and Tracey and kids never looked so great. I missed them terribly, so much so you could not imagine. Maybe you could imagine, 17 days away from them…..never again!! My next ride will be a little shorter and if it’s cross country then they are all coming with me!

It was great to see everyone there. Laurah Crandall…We did it! Great to see you there. I remember the first I left you a message and told you what I wanted to do. Well it’s done! I’m locked in for this ride annually for sure.
We started our trek home and it was allot of fun. Our roadie, Jason, now relinquishing his support vehicle and mounting bicycle for the final leg. Also, John Burke, I cannot say enough…you got us home from Hackensack without a hitch. Just talkling and riding switching positions and and joking all the way. Way to go Johnny Cakes!!
To the foot of Skyline Drive…Who’s Idea was that??!! Oh yeah, Donnie and I came up with that one. We strapped in, buckled up and started our climb which turned out to be blast. Nothing like the past times I’ve climbed it. I guess we were finally in shape!!! To the top we go and what made it even easier were the signs on Skyline Drive, we loved them. At the top to be met by a police escort for the final descent down Skyline Drive. Donnie and I put the hammer down and flew as if our wheels/tires never really touched the blacktop. As we approached Erskine Road we just looked over at each other and realized we did it and then we summed up our thoughts about what impressed us about each other along the way as we climbed into our Erskine neighborhood/home. We summed up the ride in the last quarter mile. I could never imagine all the faceswhen we came around the bend at Lil’ Beach. All the decorations, the kids and all our friends, cycling companions and best buds. What a homecoming. All the cheers and excitement I did not know what to do or say. The attention to us was just overwhelming. I can only say I cannot tell you the appreciation I feel for everyone. The parade of bikes was one more awesome thing to add to the day and the journey. To ride with my son Dakoda and see how hard he workd on decorating his bicycle was, well what can I say, the best ending.
Down to Claire’s Garden for the official greeting with all our friends and families was spectacular. To see one friend after another and the happiness in the air is while I will always and I mean always be proud to call Erskine Lakes my home.
With the block party to follow I have to say Thank You to everyone one more time. It was something special and a great time to catch up. I feel likeI did not spend enough time with everyone. In some ways I could not fathom that I was home.
I am going to depart the blog for now but I will be back with more thoughts soon. Thank you all so much again and It’s great to be home!!

GENE

2006-07-02T16:45:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone! We are so grateful for all of the love and support from all of you during this journey. Thanks for helping to make the homecoming celebration so special...the bike parade was SPECTACULAR!...a beautiful show of support! Thank you to everyone who brought food, helped set up and break down! Special thanks to Phyllis, Trish & John, Chris, Richie & Carolyn, Terry & Joe & Meems, Kathleen,Ryan and RonR.,Mr.Art, Jen & Dean, Jim A. Thanks to Rebecca and Quentin for painting "The Ringwood Rock" and for coordinating things down at Little Beach. The decorations were beautiful!Thanks to our kids who helped with preparations and decorations..Carly, Katy, Kaylin, Jenna, JohnCharles, Will & JohnJophes. Thanks to all of Erskine Lakes. You've always been so kind to us. Our Ringwood Police Dept. was awesome to help us out! Mayor Atlas, we thank you, as well for your show of support. Thanks to "The Road Crew"...Laura, Ryan, John, Louie and Jim for biking in and our Motorcycle Support, Jim, John and Wendy (Dubs). I don't want to leave anyone out who helped us...

Many thanks to all! Love, Mare!

2006-07-02T10:50:00.000-04:00

JULY 1, 2006 – HOMECOMING DAY

You couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day. As the MasterCard commercials state….PRICELESS! Our HEROES (Don, Gene & Jason) arrived in Hackensack and were greeted with long-awaited and well-deserved HUGS & KISSES from their families. One last trek to make but they would not go this leg alone. They were now supported by other avid cyclists and friends for the journey home to Ringwood where a HEROES WELCOME awaited. There was a small sign that even Claire, our little angel, was with us and watching as a ladybug landed on the shoulder of one of the greeters in Hackensack. Don had told us of the numerous ladybug sightings during their cross-country ride.

The riders mounted their bicycles and departed for Ringwood. It was a smooth trip with the only downside (other than Skyline Drive) was the fact that out of about 20 traffic signals we caught 19 RED LIGHTS. The pace of the trek home to Ringwood was incredible. It seemed like only seconds to the top of Skyline Drive which I have to declare these guys took like real champions and they made it look effortless.

We reached the summit of Skyline Drive and were met by Ringwood’s Finest who would escort our heroes on the final leg of the journey. The HEROES approached Little Beach to be met by parents, friends and children with colorfully decorated bicycles and helmets. Now as a community we could properly WELCOME HOME our HEROES and escort them to Claire’s Memory Garden. The “Bicycle Parade” was just AWESOME if you were there to witness it.

The HEROES and the entire community arrived at Claire’s Memory Garden at Upper Lake. Believe it or not there were several more lady bug sightings. A sign that our Little Angel, Claire, was there with us. Now with all the families and community there we released the Red and Yellow Balloons not only in memory of Claire but in celebration of her and how she has affected so many in such a positive way. There really is no way to describe it.

Finally, a chance to take a breath, sit back and meet with our HEROES in a well deserved little community block party. All in the name of CLAIRE’S RIDE FOR A REASON and RAISING AWARENESS to SUDC.
WELL DONE GUYS, WELL DONE!

2006-07-01T07:09:00.000-04:00

CLAIRE'S RIDE FOR A REASON STATISTICS:

-Since January 2006 the website has had 1,754 distinct visitors

-1000 of those distinct visitors have surfed to the site since the start of the ride

...Way to go Don, Gene and Jason

-The website has had over 136,906 hits

-People have surfed to our website from 18 different countries

-Our Claire's Ride for a Reason Family's efforts have raised over $25,000

How is that for RAISING AWARENESS?

THANK YOU...THANK YOU...THANK YOU

2006-07-01T06:02:00.000-04:00

DAY 15 - LAST DAY OF RIDE (Stroudsburg, PA to Hackensack, NJ):

Well, what can we say. Several months ago CLAIRE'S RIDE FOR A REASON was all just an idea and today we are actually completing what we (with a whole lot of help from you) set out to do. We can only hope that we RAISED AWARENESS TO SUDC. Our cross country ride may be ending but our REASON continues. Each and every day when someone becomes AWARE of what SUDC is and gives just a little something to help the research and support group activities for the families affected by this phenomena is a day closer to finding and abolishing the reason. A day many of us are looking forward to.

We would like to thank everyone (and we mean everyone! the list of our Claire's Ride for a Reason family is just so long it might cover every mile from coast to coast) for all their support and efforts. We ask that you keep RAISING AWARENESS to SUDC and keep in your thoughts and prayers not only Claire but all the "little angels" who are no longer with us and the families that were left behind. When it comes down to it, YOU (our supporters), all are our INSPIRATION.
THANK YOU and GOD BLESS!
PS: The Blog will continue so keep coming back even after today...our REASON is not done.

2006-06-30T00:19:00.000-04:00

DAY 14 - Burnham, PA to Stroudsburg, PA
Gene's Thoughts and Comments of June 30th part of ride:
Hey everyone we are almost there. Pulling out of the hotel early today. We can’t wait to get home. Still trying to figure our way home. It seemed to change dally because of all the water damage and flooding around here. Today seemed to be smooth sailing. We had our mileage figured and the terrain was much nicer than yesterday with wide winding roads through the Amish country. People drive a little crazy around here probably vacationers from Jersey.
Had one detour and I had to take a bridge that was out of the way but it was not a problem just kept pedaling. Every stroke of the pedal brings us closer to home and we cannot wait to see everyone. I really miss my family and I cannot believe I’ve been away from them so long so I’ll make it short today and say we are all safe and strong. We are stronger in allot of ways even more than before we started. I wouldn’t say we’ve been through hell or anything but there were times it was really difficult, but in some way you all helped us through. Thank you for that. We are in Stroudsburg tonight and eating Country Cooking at a buffet style dinner.
It’s been my pleasure getting to see the country with Donnie and Jason and as much as I do not want to ride my bike for a wile I am going to miss you guys.

Gene

2006-06-30T00:15:00.000-04:00

Thoughts & Comments from Gene & Don on their ride of June 29th - DAY 13
Gene:
Well we woke up to a brand new flat tire on my bike waiting for me today. I cannot believe this but who is counting. I decided it was time to change the tire tube and tape but I would probably would be fired from my job at pedal sports cause I mounted the tire backwards !!@#&%***?? It’s gonna stay that way for now and I am on the road at last. Donnie is not comfortable out there today. A lot of construction along the way with big rigs tearing up the roads. My stage was a little more forgiving for the moment but I also encountered some of the worst conditions on the trip so far. I needed a bmx stunt bike to get through this stuff. Jason wanted to pick me up and drive me through it but I rode it out. Bumps, rocks, glass you name it I rode through it and guess what no flat tire. But we had just about everything thrown at us all today including rain. Everything is flooded around here. How the heck are we going to get out of here. Jason rode a few miles today and roughed it through the rain storms also. We have a big day tomorrow some miles to make up and a little climbing again but we are energized and ready to come home.

Donnie: 44.6 mph in a 40 mph construction zone, out running trucks just to survive....this was not my vision of a cross country tour...this is survival of the fittest or dumbest...anyway, thank God we are nested in Burnham, PA safe and sound...Genesee Cream Ale also.
We head into the heart of the Appalachian Mts. tomorrow, into Stroudsburg,Pa and the mighty Delaware river. Yea, we crossed the Colorado River, Arkansas River (dry), then the Missisippi, the Wabash and then yesterday the Ohio River into Wheeling WV. Friday, we cross the swollen Susquahanna, and Saturday morning, the Deleware! See you all soon.
Don T.

2006-06-29T06:41:00.000-04:00

DAY 13 - Pittsburgh, PA to Lewistown, PA

2006-06-29T06:38:00.000-04:00

Gene's Thoughts and Comments from June 28th Ride (Ohio to Pittsburgh, PA):

Hey everyone just wrapping another day up sitting here eating a couple of YORK PEPPERMINT PATTIES America’s favorite snack. Just got in from an excellent sushi dinner in downtown Pittsburgh, PA. Had a great time as usual. We are doing fine today but it was a challenging day as usual.
Had to change our route it was bringing us too far south so in turn we have no idea where the heck we are going!! During Donnie’s stage I simultaneously started my stage and went 20 miles the wrong way. In turn Jason had to find and retrieve me leaving poor Donnie pedaling 60 miles with no break and then Jason got to hear the dogs barking again!!?? I managed to drive directly into the storm so I was completely soaked. No, normally I would invite the rain soaking (We know how much everyone home loves the rain right now)HA HA but when it takes you out of the way so far it made a bad situation worse. Anyway we managed to get through that rut as usual and let each other know that it wasn’t anybody’s fault. We got back on track and I went in the saddle for the next stage. Turned out to be a great day I had to stop and change my shoes OH NO!!! Yes, back to the yellow shoes…visions of flying water bottles. Where is Koenig, Buisa and Meekem.
Donnie got into a nice pace and Jason was working overtime keeping track of two riders wandering aimlessly in the hills of West Virginia and PA.
I had a lot of climbing but not too challenging. Donnie had a few climbs as well but he said had some killer down hills, NICE! Then the greatest thing happened???, I got another flat tire. This is awesome I've had 4 so far Donnie 0, what’s up with that?? I am now a certified bicycle technician and can work at Pedal Sports now as I’m becoming a pro at changing tires. During my time changing my tire I heard from John Burke. Always great to hear from you. He gave me some updates returned a few to him and just like that just hearing from him just put a little extra drive in your heart and motivation! We know you’re all pulling for and thinking about us and hearing from you all whether in e-mails, guest book, or phone always picks us up. See you Saturday John, the webmaster, look forward to hanging with you and everyone else.
We managed to out run the rain for now. Although it is raining now I don’t mind as long as I can find my way back home. Miss you all and thanks again for all the support.

Dave, from Jamis, just wanted to thank you for all your support from the bike donation at comedy night and the beautiful bike that Donnie has been riding. tires etc. What can I say we haven’t known each other long and you put together a great package from Jamis Cycles for us and I cannot thank you enough and believe me Donnie was speechless and taken back by your efforts and generosity towards this ride Thank you!!

This has been a life changing experience for me on so many levels but most of all the amount of awareness which we will be posting is amazing. I cannot believe what I am hearing and this is what I had set out to do from the day of the dedication of Claire’s Garden. I had no Idea what SUDC was but we all do now. To all the families out there this is for you it’s been my pleasure!!
Goodnight
Gene

2006-06-28T15:17:00.000-04:00

Just off the wires from the road....
We got caught in the rain, Ohio style....snuck up on us from behind. For the record, we are now officially off the RAAM Race Across America Route, it was going to go to far south into WV and Maryland. So, we left London, OH and following 40E, the historic National Highway, to the Pittsburgh area today. We will cross into Wild, Wonderful, Wheeling West Virginia, briefly this afternoon, then in to PA. Thursday, from Pitts to Lewistown, PA and Friday into Stroudsburg, PA after passing through the Lehigh Valley, Jim Thorpe, PA. We will cross the Allegany Mts. and then the Appalacian Mts. into the Deleware Gap.
Saturday of course, we head into Hackensack. Rain delay is almost over here. First real rain delay since going into Dodge.We are good, testing each others metal a bit, but, not killing each other yet. Thank you goes out to all at home for lookin out. And know that here, we are thankful for Jason our good spirited navigator, communications expert. Thanks.
Don T.

2006-06-28T10:53:00.000-04:00

Some comments and reflections of June 27th by Gene:

Wow what a day! We were like two well oiled machines today. Not too windy and abundance of nice country to look at. Jason and I met up with Donnie and had to make sure he stayed on course due to numerous and frequent turns in this leg of the trip from Indiana to Ohio. Donnie makes up cheat sheets/crypt notes (like the ones we used for tests in high school) for us to carry so we do not get lost. Not too much laboring today Donnie looks great. Our Morale is picking up again I guess everyone is looking forward to getting home, especially the closer we get.
I felt great today, finally recovered. Maybe it was my conversation with Dakoda last night energized me. You give me strength buddy and I miss you all day long. Daddy will be home real soon. Hayden didn't think I would be able to survive without you guys so long. Ohio is a nice state I reached the line about 11:30 am very busy area but plenty of room for cyclists. Going through a bunch of different areas from city like to country like to city like again. Some of the towns are quaint little towns with populations of about 500. Just made for an interesting day. Really so nice that I felt like I could have gone straight to NJ. The miles came off real fast and easy.
For the first time during the ride we actually had some time to reflect on the day. We stoppled and found a great buffet dinner place with all kinds of great stuff for recovering cyclists. We are not forgetting any one on this endeavor you are all in our hearts. Sometimes your thought patterns change and you review everything that has taken place and how you actually got to this point and you realize you would not be here without the help and support of others.
Laura Barry and Julie at SUDC I told you it would come together. Thank you for your words of encouragement and it is great to hear from you. Everyone at the CJ Foundation for SIDS could not have done any of this without your support. I will always be a part of raising awareness for you!
To all the families of Erskine Lakes, who have helped in every way possible, I am proud to be a part of that great community and consider you family.
Well it is off to the races now. We will be rolling through Ohio to Pennsylvania today getting close now but the last few miles will still be challenging. Please get as many riders together for the trek back to Ringwood. We would love the company and please please send more of your thoughts it carries us through the day even if you want to just say HI! The more the better, we love it. See you all soon Gene, Don, and Jason.

Newsflash....This just in the guys responsible for hitting Gene with a water bottle in Missouri indicates the Driver had striking resemblance to Art Garfunkle. The passenger looked a lot like Chris Meekem AKA Larry Buisa. See ya soon guys we miss ya!!

2006-06-28T05:42:00.000-04:00

DAY 12 - London, Ohio to Clarksburg, West Virginia: Weather could be touch and go today. Forecast calls for rain and thunderstorms with temps ranging from 60 to 80 degrees. Fortunately, we haven't hit any rain even when the forecast predicted it. Considering making some modifications to our travel plans to take a more direct route home(doesn't make sense to go south further away from home and then head north) but we will keep you posted.

2006-06-27T20:05:00.000-04:00

Update-----Riders have landed in London, Ohio as of 8:30 p.m. 6/27

Gene Reflects on ride of Monday, June 26th:
Another bad day at the office, just did not feel good today. Donnie was first in the saddle as we went from Illinois to Indiana. Jason and I set out for supplies and stuff for the days riding.
Then we got lost for about an hour. Not good. We finally caught up with Donnie and got him refueled him and then rode ahead for my stage.
The way we generally run the days is Donnie or I set out first on the bike and Jason and the Support Vehicle ride ahead 25 to 50 miles and drop the next rider and then we repeat the process with only a lunch break and the rest of the eating is done on the bike and sometimes lunch on the bike if time is short. This is how we cover the miles needed during the day rather than riding through the night. So if anyone was wondering, thats how we have been operating. Today for me was a lite recovery day as Glenn would call it. I just kept spinning and the miles kept comming off but not as fast as I would have liked. It worked in the long run for the day ended pretty good. There was not much to look at in this state and we are looking forward to Ohio and Pennsylvania where we will be back to climbing. Jason is a key player in thes ride without his efforts i dont think this would be possible. Sometimes he takes a lot of abuse from us. He especially got it when we were battling the throught he horrific Kansas Tornado like winds.
After taken a beating from the Kansas winds we moved onto Missouri and dealt with 2 to 300 ft. rollers, one right after the other. Are legs were screaming at the end of those rollers. It makes it a little harder to get going each day after a good solid day of lactic acid build up in the legs, but we are moving forward all the time. We are looking so forward to getting home but we forge ahead because we know our mission or better yet REASON... Please remember those who have lost to SUDC and tell someone else about SUDC.
Rolling into Indianna now. We stopped for photos at Indiana University, Donnies graduate school, and then we set out for Ballyhoo. This was one of Donnies favorite places to hang back in the day. We sat down for a good dinner there which meant a lot to Donnie and in all we had a great time.
In other news I had an awesome conversation with my son Dakoda, age 6 this evening. He was asking me all kinds of questions. I really miss him. Hayden even showed that he is never at a loss for words either, even at 2 1/2. XXOO to both of you. Tracey I miss you. They are Hanging with my friends Brian and Carra Carney (thanks to you both for all the inspirational calls I can't tell you how much the mean) Carissa, thank you for the great hug. I took that to San Diego and it will carry me back to NJ. Brando, Dakodas best buddy and Kyla I miss you all. To Maryann, Carly and Katy I miss you guys too and we will be home soon. Don't worry Jason and I are taking care of your Daddy but you already knew that...he is a strong man!
I'd like to give everyone a big THANK YOU for all your thoughts and comments on the Guest Book part of the website. Your words are nothing short of truly inspirational the way you communicate to us. We read it every day so keep sending those messages. John Cimmonds we are inspired and can't wait to ride with from Hackensack to Ringwood on Saturday. Thanks again for a great job as MC at comedy night.
Finally, Miss you Mom And Dad and we look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday.
GENE

2006-06-27T05:53:00.000-04:00

DAY 11 - INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA TO LONDON, OHIO
Weather doesn't look promising for next couple of days. Looks like 60 to 80 degrees with Rain and Thunderstorms. Let's hope not. Hey, you can see NJ now on map...almost home!
Get ready for Homecoming. Anyone interested in riding from Hackensack to Ringwood (25 miles...experienced riders and/or adults only)contact the Webmaster via email at webmaster@clairesride.org as soon as possible. We need to finalize some details with that aspect of our Homecoming Day. Thanks.

2006-06-26T06:23:00.000-04:00

DAY 10 - Alton, Illinois to Indianapolis, Indiana

****More Pics to come so please check back later today. Remember to double click on any photo here in the blog to view a larger version.****

The following thoughts are from Gene on his accounts from June 23rd to June 25th

June 23:
Rolling out of Dodge now. Wow you can get filet mignon for $15.00 Porterhouse for $17.00 Dinner was good last night but I was expecting a little more of a classic western town. Wyatt Earp stuff to be a little more preserved. They had some cool stuff but not too much historic stuff. Donnie rode out of Dodge first today and left Jason and I to pick up supplies and see some stuff along the way. Great place to get Dakoda and Hayden gifts for home.

Had to check over the bike after it practically got ripped off the truck after the old Kansas storm. Into the Kansas plains and WOW nothing here but flat grassy land and a lot of wind. The wind is so strong picture sticking your head out of your car window for 4 hrs its pretty stressfull. Starting to get back to civilization as we are on to Missouri. Made a wrong turn today but sent us on some real secluded back roads today so Donnie took the jerseys off soaked up some sun for the last 20 miles. We figured we were safe here until this rabid dog like the one from toy story tried to get me. It’s pretty funny after the fact but I had to pedal fast to get away. Tonight we rolled into Yates Center, Kansas. We are tired but ready to get into the next state. Talk to you tomorrow.

June 24th:
Rolling out or Yates Center, KS and moving onto Missouri. I will be in the saddle first today needed to change a tube as I ended the day with another flat. Good time to adjust and clean the bike. On the road seeing first signs of life after first 25 miles. That ended quickly though. Back out riding the plains and battling the wind only its much hotter or humid as the climate is changing. Roller coaster hills makes for a tough ride but the further we go things seem to be getting greener and less flat. I’m really tired today everything is cramping up. We found our first body of water since San Diego at the end of todays ride. It’s really hot and we are really hurting but Jefferson City is a great city and a lot like home with lots of people. Found a great pasta place and looking forward to resting tonight. The woman at super 8 in Jefferson City comped the room for us today and also offered to take care of our laundry that was really nice of her. Thank You!

Son enjoy the pictures be sure to send us your comments in the guest book we love hearing from you!!
Gene

Sunday June 25th:
How is everyone doing?? Pretty good here. Well I had my first official bad day. Thae Kansas wind and Missouri rollers took a toll on the body yesterday. Cramping hands and legs and other body parts, not a good feeling.
Got off to a slow start when I got in the saddle. I went straight to climbing not good for recovery. Not only physically but mentally unprepared for the day and had other things on my mind. It’s amazing how something simple like riding a bike if your not up to it can be so hard. I just wanted to stop but I did not. This part of the country is beautiful totally different from Kansas. Landscape, trees, mountains, water, green grass, long flats and rolling hills, it has it all.
It was one of those days. We were rebel cyclists riding without a jersey today. Just could not get into the groove. Then to top it all off I get beaned for no reason with a bottle of water from some passing motorist. I tried to contact Donnie and Jason to get the guys but they both had their phones on vibrate. Probably the worst state so far for cycling. Got run off the road twice yesterday and hit with a bottle today. Never mind get out of dodge get out of Missouri... Donnie said the guy hit me because of my yellow shoes I guess that could be a good reason? By the way it was a black mustang. Where was Chris Koenig on Sunday??
Well, that got me going any way and jumped started me with a little adrenaline and I was able to finish the days milage required. The last 15 priceless miles Jason joined me and we went back to rebel cyclists bandanas and guinea tees. A real mess but we were relaxed going over the Mississipi River, Whew! we did it. I ended up with a nice dinner and watched Donnie clear his plate as if it came fresh from the dish washer!
Sorry to bore you with my bad day but I guess every day can’t be great. It was honestly the most physically and emotionally draining start. I really felt like racking the bike. I didn’t though and when the day ended I realized as hard as it was it was worth every moment. Remembering all the those affected by SUDC and what our REASON is brings me right back. I’m glad I did not give up the day they are too priceless to let go to waste, even if you feel broken down there is always a way to turn it around. I miss everyone Home!! I miss my family I’ll be home soon Gene

2006-06-25T06:06:00.000-04:00

DAY 9 - Jefferson City, Missouri to Alton, Illinois.

Perspectives from Don (from Friday and Saturday Day 7 & 8):
"Friday, 200 miles of head winds. I was sitting on the side of the road, across from this gigantic display of metal pinwheels with all kinds of sayings, waiting for Gene and Jason to catch up to me for a refill of water...they blow right past me! Probably looking at the pinwheel display on the other side of the road. I run into the middle of the road, behind them, waving my hands, and thank God, I saw break lights, and they turned around. Then, they blew past me again and parked, in fornt of the display. Jason is out there taking pictures and i am watching him..."Hey Jason"...He looks around and spots me, "Yo, where did you come from?" "You guys suck!" They past me TWICE! They only turned around to get pictures, they never actually saw me. I guess from here on in, if I crash on the side of the road, I will have to crawl into the middle of the road to be sure I am picked up!

Later in the day as we left the main US 54 for some welcomed back road cycling, me and gene are side by side, (an unusual sight since we are playing relay most of the time)....we get ATTACKED by freakin "Kujo"! ...This dog came out of no where and ran us down for 100 yards, and was gaining on us! Jason missed it with camera...he was laughing too hard!

Saturday, 200 miles again today between us, head winds diminished a bit, but, a lot of "rollers". Thats short up hill, down hills, up, down.....all day. A bunch of road was either milled and bumpy or absolutely no shoulder! A lot of angry drivers going around us today. Gene was talking to his mom today and explained our day as like "...hanging your head out the car window for 5 straight hours..." ah, the great outdoors. At least the weather is good, 80s, mostly sunny, and a mild breeze. Finally, a large body of water, the 1st one since San Diego. Its the Lake of the Ozarks. Picture Lake George with out the mountains. We ate dinner in this lake area italian resturant. Jason asked for "gnocci pasta", the server had to find the manager to find out what it is, no gnocci. Geno the italiano expert sent his linguine and clam sauce back, "uneatable..." Of course, I ate it, all of it! big surprise right.

Ok, off to Illinois tomorrow.
Peace out, Don, Gene, Jason///

2006-06-24T21:42:00.000-04:00

Some pics we took along the way...enjoy!

2006-06-24T08:46:00.000-04:00

DAY 8 - Today we ride from Yates Center, Kansas to Jefferson City, Missouri. Almost to St. Louis. Weather Temps should hold between 63 to 83 degrees. Just a little windy here. Let's hope the wind is behind us.

2006-06-23T20:00:00.000-04:00

Some Pictures and the thoughts of Gene:

-Got in real late last night off of the mountain…well into the night. Donnie took over the riding this morning and we had to detour to New Mexico to go around the wildfires... Donnie powered down into New Mexico and the winds were high but he motored through. Up and down rollers is very hard sometimes the distance is harder than a long climb. Jason and I moved ahead for my stage Red River to Angelfire to Bobcat pass another pass??!! We saw the huge mountain range and my legs were still rubbery from Wolf Creek Pass yesterday.
Well I had gotten under way and Jason prepped me with all my needs but what good is all the prep if you forget it. As Jason motored away to meet with Donnie I began my climb I reached for a water bottle and they weren’t there oh!!??? I had to go on and with no phone service. A few miles up about 10 a.m. or so I came across a power plant where the guys were eating lunch. One of the guys gave me a water bottle and I was under way a little less dehydrated but just a little thirsty when Jason and Donnie showed up. I refueled and we came across a town which was beautiful and right in the middle of the mountains perfectly flat for about 2 miles with 3,000 ft mountains all around. Just spectacular!!! I started up the hill which became steep really fast. The road was rough with small round pea gravel everywhere…just perfect for cycling!!!???? There were some other areas which were better but overall a mess. It caused me to dig a little deeper on this climb but sometimes you can loose the pain when you think of something great. I miss my family I wish they could see what these eyes are seeing. As Donnie and Jason arrived 3,000 ft of climbing was coming to a conclusion…this one is for Claire!!
Thank you Glenn, my coach, who taught me everything about cycling in just a short time.

One good thing about climbing a huge mountain pass is the ride down. I started my decent into the valley. My speed I could not believe…60.4mph to be exact…look mom no hands! I rode down to the bottom and into the valley. Mountains, fields, horses, cows, prairie dogs, etc. you name it it’s here…even buffalo. Jason got a kick out that. Donnie started his next stage and man what a ride. He had winding hills and rollers and smiling from ear to ear. It’s getting late we said just 10 miles more. He was havng a blast as we all were this was probably the coolest day so far. We miss every one and all who have helped us so far your all in our thoughts throughout the day.
To Glenn Stoll of Highlands Health and Fitness, THANK YOU for everything. From the first day I asked for your help you have forwarned me of al the things we would encounter. You helped me prepare for the suffering in the desert and the speeds of the down hill. Such as going from 110 degrees to 45degrees in a few hrs. Those kinds of extremes take a toll on the body but you prepped me and coached me to be able to adjust and battle through. You reminded me of my limits, my strengths and my weaknesses all the while prepping me mentally for the very days we are experiencing. You are the best THANK YOU for all that you’ve done including dissecting the route and always having time for a quick chat. I’ll talk to you soon