Team H2V Coast to Coast

Subscribe to the new Accu-Chek Cyclebetes Blog!!

2009-02-13T10:26:00.000-08:00

The Accu-Chek Cyclebetes Blog is officially online!!

Team H2V attracted hundreds of subscribers to this blog by providing interesting, relevant and inspirational posts. Through the Accu-Chek Cyclebetes Blog, our team is dedicated to continuing their legacy and making it worth your while to bring us into your lives.

Please follow the link to see what we've put together, and, if you are interested or inspired, please subscribe....we'd love to have you along for the ride!

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes: The Biggest Bike Relay in the World.
Delivering on a Promise. Cure Juvenile Diabetes.

Put YOUR own "Spin" on Things

2009-02-01T22:24:00.000-08:00

The first Accu-Chek Cyclebetes Spin-a-thon kicks off this month at Dr. Charles Best Secondary School in Coquitlam, BC. Since Best, together with Sir Frederick Banting discovered insulin, it was very important to the school to get involved.

One of the things that impressed us the most is that when our proposed Spin-a-thon format didn't work for them, the Staff and Students at Best came to us with an alternate proposal. We wholeheartedly accepted their proposal and love the "spin" they've put on things.

Instead of a 24-hour continuous event, which didn't work for them, the Charles Best Spin-a-thon will take place over five days from February 9-13, at the school. The event is being organized by a grade nine leadership team and will take place each day during school hours in the main hall. There will be five teams - one for each grade 9-12, and one for teachers. When all is said and done, the bikes will have been spinning for 45 hours.

The organizers at Charles Best want to emphasize that Dr. Best and Dr. Banting sold the insulin formula for $1.00 (from the heart), therefore, their campaign is based on the theme 'From the Heart' and will focus on what students and staff can do 'from the heart' to give back.

We love the idea of schools putting their own spin on things so, by all means, if our standard Lap-a-thon or Spin-a-thon format doesn't quite work for your school, please come to us with your version. We know it will be great!

For further information about our school programs, please email Cheryl Wilson-Stewart- cheryl@cyclebetes.com

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes School Spirit!!

2009-01-07T22:15:00.000-08:00

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes is encouraging YOU to find your School Spirit!

If you are one of the many people who are looking for ways to help us out, but aren't quite sure how, we have an idea...

Which secondary school do you (or did you) attend? Do you know anybody who attends or works at a secondary school?

You can help us, and make a difference, by telling a high school - the principal, a teacher, the student council - about Accu-Chek Cyclebetes Spin-a-thons...an amazing way to bring health, wellness, leadership and a community together to support the JDRF.

If they are interested in finding out more, please email their contact information to Cheryl Wilson-Stewart, our Director of School Initiatives, at cheryl@cyclebetes.com.

Thank you all for helping to make it happen!

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes - Doing something BIG!

2008-12-16T21:49:00.000-08:00

A message of hope and inspiration

“Do something….something BIG… that hasn’t been done.”

Those were the words that fueled Team H2V.
The 5 man cycling team, who in September 2007, cycled across Canada at break neck speed, raised close to 1,000,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and netted a Guinness World Record.
Team H2V is currently featured - on page 9 - in the recently released Guinness World Records 2009.
Check it out:
http://www.cyclebetes.com/media/media.php?pageID=45

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes is the Legacy of Team H2V.
Those same, simple words guide our efforts today.
To effect positive change we must push beyond the boundaries of what we know, do more than we think we can and always believe anything is possible.

Please join us for Accu-Chek Cyclebetes: the biggest bike relay in the world!

“Do something…something BIG…that hasn’t been done.”

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes!

Update on Schools

2008-12-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

We have begun a Cyclebetes Spin-a-Thon FAQ feature on the website.
It will be updated regularly so check often!
http://www.cyclebetes.com/schools/schools.php?pageID=80

The first Secondary Spin mentor forum will be announced shortly.

We are working hard to get as many schools involved in this amazing opportunity as possible.
Response has been wide spread from Vancouver Island to New York State!

If your school is considering hosting an event, please register so that we can support you and the school's needs and ensure you receive all updates and news!

Secondary Spin-a-Thon registration - http://www.cyclebetes.com/schools/schools.php?pageID=53

Elementary Lap-a-Thon registration – http://www.cyclebetes.com/schools/schools.php?pageID=65

Some very exciting irons are in the fire that will yield fantastic-amazing-awesome announcements in January.

Stay tuned!

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes Lap-a-Thons

2008-11-16T21:47:00.000-08:00

Cyclebetes 2009 – Students get Active and Build Socially Responsible Values
Elementary School Lap-a-Thon

Attention Elementary Administrators
This is an extraordinary opportunity for your students! Cyclebetes 2009 is an exciting, multi-level cycling event benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). It will be launched in Canada, the US and Australia in November 2008. The Cyclebetes Elementary Lap-a-Thon is a program that has been carefully developed to provide an opportunity for physical activity and a fun, interactive values education platform.

Canadian elementary students:
Get Active
Get Moving
Get Healthy
Build Community
Develop Socially Responsible Values
Learn about Candian Heroes and Canadian History

Take a sneak peek at The Cyclebetes Lap-a-Thon Educator Guide & Tool Kit:
http://www.cyclebetes.com/schools/img/page23/Cyclebetes_Elementary_Guide%20front%20page.pdf

Cyclebetes Elementary Lap-a-Thon offers full support to schools:
Cyclebetes Elementary Lap-a-Thon Educator Guide and Tool Kit
Online forums for Teachers
The Cyclebetes National Support Team a mouse click or phone call away!

Please take the time to review the program. We hope you will see the value of participating in this extraordinary event.

If you would like to register your school or have questions please contact:
Cheryl Wilson – Stewart - Cyclebetes Director of School Initiatives
cheryl@cyclebetes.com

Find out more about Cyclebetes 2009.
www.cyclebetes.com

Please pass this on to anyone you know that might help spread the word.

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes Spin-a-Thons

2008-11-16T21:39:00.000-08:00

Cyclebetes 2009 - Build Student Leaders Today!
Secondary School 24 hour Spin-a-Thon

This is an extraordinary opportunity for your students! Cyclebetes 2009 is an exciting, multi-level cycling event benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). It will be launched in Canada, the USA and Australia in November 2008. The Cyclebetes 24 hour Secondary Spin-a-Thon is an extraordinary aspect that builds student leaders and unites communities.

Young people who believe in themselves know they have the power to affect positive change. Their leadership and keen sense of responsibility will guide people and shape communities today and tomorrow.

This is the guiding principle behind the Cyclebetes 24 hour Secondary Spin-a-Thon which promotes student leadership, social responsibility and builds awareness of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

Youth Leadership – Health & Wellness - Strong, United Communities
This is a student led event and an outstanding opportunity for your school and community!

The Cyclebetes Secondary Spin-a-Thon was piloted in March 2008 by Rockridge Secondary, West Vancouver, BC. Watch this Message for Administrators from Vice Principal Ian Kennedy.
http://www.cyclebetes.com/info/info.php?pageID=57

Hear what Rockridge student leaders have to say:
http://www.cyclebetes.com/info/info.php?pageID=58

Cyclebetes offers full support to schools and students:
Cyclebetes Spin-a-Thon Student & Educator Guide
Online mentor forums
The Secondary Spin 10 Steps to Success video – hosted by the Rockridge crew!
The Cyclebetes National Support Team is a mouse click or phone call away!

Find out more! Here’s a sneak peek at The Cyclebetes 24 hour Secondary Spin-a-Thon Student & Educator Guide.
http://www.cyclebetes.com/schools/img/page22/Spin%20teaser.pdf

Register your school today – shape the leaders of tomorrow!
If you would like more information or have questions please contact:
Cheryl Wilson – Stewart - Director of School Initiatives
cheryl@cyclebetes.com

Pass this on to everyone you know that can help.

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes is rolling!

2008-11-16T21:33:00.000-08:00

To all Team H2V Supporters:

The Legacy of Team H2V lives!

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes 2009 is the legacy of Team H2V – built on the themes of the founding event - community, responsibility, community and promise

Accu-Chek Cyclebetes 2009 promises to be extraordinary.

The Provincial Relay – (August – September) 5 person provincial teams pass the ‘torch’ - a vial of lifesaving insulin at provincial borders.

The Secondary 24 hour Spin-a-Thon (February – March) students have the opportunity to develop true leadership potential by hosting an event in their community.

The Elementary Lap-a-Thon (April – May) students get active and moving and learn socially responsible values from The Legacy Builders.

Currently we are launching the Secondary Spin- a-thon and Elementary Lap-a-Thon to schools across Canada and the United States. As supporters of Team H2V you can help! These are outstanding, innovative programs that not only build awareness and generate funds for the JDRF but aim to prepare an entire generation for healthy, productive, successful living.

We will be forwarding 2 more blog posts – they provide information on both programs. Take a look – explore and then please forward, by cutting and pasting into an email program, to friends and local educators so that they too will be made aware of this extraordinary resource!
Together we can build a healthy, positive future.
Delivering on a Promise. Cure Juvenile Diabetes

Live to ride.
Willie Cromack - Team H2V rider - CEO Cyclebetes
willie@cyclebetes.com
phone: 604.808.8547

Cyclebetes is growing!!!

2008-09-03T22:15:00.000-07:00

It's happening! Our Cyclebetes Facebook group is growing. We have big goals, and we need your help! Our membership grew after the first post to this blog, so we thought we'd try again. If you aren't on Facebook yet, or are and haven't joined our group, please get on there and help us reach our initial goal of 1,000 members! Please ask all of your friends to do the same. We know that so many of you are looking for ways to contribute to Cyclebetes and this is a great opportunity to become a Champion and make a difference.

We'll keep you informed of our progress...the extraordinary is beginning to happen!

Cyclebetes is on Facebook!

2008-08-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

In our quest to make Cyclebetes an extraordinary success, we've created a group on Facebook. The group is simply titled "Cyclebetes", and is open to anybody who chooses to join.
If you are currently a Facebook participant, please take a minute to join and then invite all of your friends to do the same.

Please help us spread the word!!

Become a Cyclebetes Champion and Make History

2008-08-17T21:43:00.000-07:00

Cyclebetes: The biggest bike relay in the world.
Delivering on a Promise. Cure Juvenile Diabetes.

It's here!! The Cyclebetes CUPPA' Stand Kit is ready and we need Champions!

Cyclebetes CUPPA' Stand Champions are volunteers willing to participate in our pilot program this August.

You and your stand could be featured on our official CUPPA’ Stand package next year!

Young children have the opportunity to learn, make a difference and support Cyclebetes in their communities by hosting their own drink stand.

Kids get started on a great path of charitable work early….understanding they have the ability to contribute, make a difference and help others!
The Cyclebetes CUPPA’ Stand Tool kit provides everything kids need to run a successful drink stand including set-up, safety, recipes, how to publicize, engage local media and raise Cyclebetes awareness.
Imagine knowing – right from the beginning – you are a Champion!

To participate, post a comment and we'll contact you, or email Kim Hexter at khexter@shaw.ca. Please take advantage of this extraordinary opportunity to imprint a powerful message in the youngest members of your community.

How else can you help?

Cyclebetes is looking for Champions!

Who are ready to be a part of something extraordinary and deliver on a Promise.

Sponsor Champions – extraordinary opportunities for Cyclebetes sponsors. High profile in all 4 streams…media attention X4….strong, highly visible message of social responsibility and community building.

Provincial Champions - lead the charge in their province. Provincial Champions will work with our National Cyclebetes team. Extraordinary opportunity to be a part of the core team.

School Champions – bring the school programs to life in their community. School Champions will work with our National School Coordinator. Extraordinary opportunity to bring physical activity, leadership and a socially responsible values education to Canadian students.

Questions? Please contact...

Kim Hexter
604-786-7865 / khexter@shaw.ca

Willie Cromack
604-808-8547 / willie@johnhenrybikes.com

What Are you Doing In 2009?

2008-06-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

The Legacy Lives!
Team H2V began in 2007.
Ride your bike.
Help deliver on a Promise.
Cure Juvenile Diabetes.
June 2009.

From the founders of Team H2V comes a lasting legacy - Cyclebetes 2009 (and beyond!)

Imagine -- Where five riders once relayed across Canada now there are thousands...hundreds of thousands! Where parents were once teaching lessons of making a difference and helping others, now children are leading and directing the vision!

Cyclebetes will be the biggest cycling event Canada has ever seen. The Cyclebetes team is very close to unveiling the multi-faceted program. Watch for it because it’s your turn to make a difference. The bigger the team; the bigger the difference we can make. Every person can be a HERO.

Be a part of a Canada's biggest national relay.

Join hundreds of schools as they organize and participate in a Cyclebetes 24 hour spin-a-thon or lap-a-thon.

Help kids host their own Cyclebetes lemonade stand. Empower children nationwide.

Cyclebetes is the power of one at is absolute finest. One change in your life, one lemonade stand, one hour on your bike, one job that needs to be done, one ride you think you could never do but you finish for you, one heart reaching out to another, and one Herculean effort to make it happen at all costs.

The power of one combined with the power of thousands.
We will deliver on a promise.

We need your help.

Provincial liaisons: people willing to organize and execute
Community liaisons
Cyclists
Bike shops to deliver and execute events
Logistics coordinators
Sponsors
Schools: champions parents and teachers to lead the kids to glory
And much more...

In September 2007 Team H2V proved ordinary people can do extraordinary things.
Now it’s your turn -- Cyclebetes 2009.

Can you help us? What are your strengths?
We need You. Join our team today by calling or emailing:

Willie Cromack
CEO Cyclebetes
Phone: +604.986.5534
Mobile: +604.808.8547
Email: willie@johnhenrybikes.com

Team H2V: The Legacy Begins

2007-12-03T12:41:00.000-08:00

We said we would do it and now it is here.

No, not the 2008 ride yet...but we are working on making that a reality for years to come. Stay tuned on 2008 N2V. We promise big things.

What we are really talking about is the new book based on this ride of a lifetime. A book based on Team H2V and the effort of the entire team to bring a small idea to a massive conclusion.

The book: The Principles of the Ride: How to maximize what's inside you.

This 181 page inspirational and motivational epic is replete with words by Kyle in the forward, and introduction describing the idea, principles based on the team building and the ride, a conclusion that tells of future N2V [Newfoundland to Victoria], all the best team blogs with comments from YOU, and a full section of incredible pictures. The Principles of the Ride is ready to take leadership and legacy to a new level by teaching YOU how you can make a big difference like Kyle and his team.

And the best part is that $10 per book will be donated directly back to Juvenile Diabetes Research.

Team H2V is not done! In the mighty words of Salmon Arm Nel; IT"S OUR TIME!

We are taking pre-orders right now. This is one way you can make an impact in your life and the lives of others just by buying the book. But don't just buy one, get one for your aunt, uncle, son, daughter, school chum, dog, teacher, best friends and all your employees. Buy as many as you can and spread the word on Juvenile Diabetes.

It is on your power and with each book you buy $10 goes back to JDRF research and the legacy lives on.

Not everyone can ride or walk for JDRF but each one of can stand up and be a leader. Start by employing the Principles of the ride.

Buy the book here and let's raise another bunch of money for Juvenile Diabetes.

Team H2V is serious about the legacy. Read and remember what a wonderful time is was and...what a wonderful time it will be in 2008.

Get your family and friends a copy of The Principles of The Ride now!

Let this be YOUR beginning.

2007-09-23T10:01:00.001-07:00

If you are still reading this blog, then you are keenly interested in what’s going on and “what’s next”. Well, use the inspiration you have gathered from this feat and take a personal step / role & or responsibility in making sure this legacy continues. YOU are what’s next. YOU dictate the pace and many YOU’s make light work because they turn into WE. Thank you in terms of action would mean a lot to us and we know there are capable people out there.

Act now while the light is on! Rally people to take action with you. After all, that’s exactly how this event metastasized into the epic proportions it has / did.

We have the relay idea and now we need regional and local leaders to continue to communicate and collaborate (again while the buzz is here) and pull something together. No shots at the JDRF, but like any charity and organization there is way to much red tape to get something moving with the degree of efficiency & effectiveness. Do not make the mistake of believing the JDRF will take this and run with it. The infrastructure must be created / set and put in place by a group of willing participants after which the JDRF lends the support they can. Hopefully next year, it will exceed the 07 support 20 fold.

In 08, we need cross the country, hitting all the major chapters. You already have a stationary cycling event in the curriculum and this should be amalgamated into the cross Canada cycle as well (it’s all the same kilometers) and would be a very easy add on. People can cycle inside, or people can cycle outside – but the scope of inclusion would be significant and the existing infrastructure may help expedite the organization.

Regardless, you need to tale responsibility and be the champion for this. No idea is a bad idea, we have the general scope of what we want to & can do and now its time to add a little infrastructure and “GO”!

To everyone, who cheered, blogged, supported, thought, prayed and helped the 2007 H2V event unfold, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

English Bay! September 22, 2007...WOW!!!!

2007-09-23T08:18:00.001-07:00

Goodmorning all,

What can you say about September 22nd 2007? You could say it was the greatest single day that JDRF has experienced in awareness and fundraising. You could say that it gave people with Type 1 diabetes a voice and hope and the idea that they no longer have to hide their disease. You could say it was probably the coolest day in the lives of 21 people who put their lives on hold to support a friend and a PROMISE he made. Or you could just say WOW!

I am sure over the next few days Team H2V will blog about their own personal experiences about our Journey, and hopefully we get lots of comments about YOUR experiences on yesterday and the past nine months. I have to let you all know that your comments mean the world to us, they kept us going through the journey and will keep the Legacy alive.

Humbly yours,

Keith Nicoll

Bring It Home With Team H2V

2007-09-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

Well we are all beginning to see our finish line and, while the terrain is still going up, our emotional state is also soaring. However, our journey ends...

Children with Type 1 Diabetes can't say the same.

The goals are being reached:

1. Awareness of this Disease...IT IS OUR TURN to have the media pay attention.
2. Cross Canada in a record breaking time via bicycle to make sure there was a platform to launch our awareness program
3. Raise money for a cure for Juvenile Diabetes

4. Find a Cure

While we will slowly go back to our lives, work hard to create a legacy-ride in honour of the crossing and benefitting JDRF, and thank God we are healthy, many people will wake up tomorrow like they do every day needing to monitor their insulin levels so they can wintess another day.

Join us in English Bay tomorrow to celebrate a succesful campaign but remember we need to make sure the donations from every corner of the globe make it in so we can find that cure.

The road is long, mostly uphill, but we will get to the finish line together. We will find a cure together.

Honoring those who have supported us.

2007-09-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

Good morning BC! Can't tell you how great it is to be so close to home, familiar terrain, families and friends. Yesterday was an excruciating grind through the Rockies and the pass, followed by a quick break in Salmon Arm. This morning, Nel treated us to an awesome sendoff and we are making our way to Kamloops as we speak.

Each rider will be taking a 1 hour shift this morning into Kamloops followed by 1/2 hr shifts up the mighty Coqu. Again, today's climb (at the end of 9 days riding) will test the remainder of our resilliance.

There's only one critical piece of information today and that's the meeting times & locations for tomorrow's ride in (which if you live in Vancouver), there's really NO REASON not to attend. This information is below. If you have any questions or concerns, Kris is your man to call 604 614 9857

Print this off, Pass it on, Makes sure you are there to celebrate this momentus homecoming with us, because without many of you waiting, supporting and encouraging - this journey would be much more difficult.

Location / Meeting Spot / Meeting Time – Approx 15-30mins before pelaton arrival /
IF Coach / Approximate Distance

1. Hope / Dairy Queen - 817 Water Ave / 6:45am / Kris / 140km
2. Agassiz / Harrison Crossroads Inn – 5936 Lougheed Hwy / 7:15am / TBD / 100km
3. Mission / Safeway – 32520 Lougheed Hwy / 8:45am / Rob / 75km
4. Pit Meadows / McDonalds – 12549 Harris Road / 9:15am / Guy / 50km
5. Port Coquitlam / Costco Parking Lot – 2370 Ottawa St / 9:45am / Dustin / 35km
6. Burnaby / Brentwood Mall Parking Lot (south/east corner) / 10:15am / Paul / 20km
7. Vancouver / Science World Expo – 1455 Quebec St / 10:45am / TBD / 10km

Team H2V Conquers Rogers Pass

2007-09-20T18:42:00.000-07:00

Today Team H2V hit two huge goals. First, we made it back to B.C., as much as we loved every province that we have ridden through, and enjoyed meeting all the people that came out to cheer us on and DONATE, it is nice to back in our home province. Second, we conquered Rogers Pass, the epic climb that has destroyed many a RV!

Rogers Pass started with Willie pulling a huge 3 hour shift through Kicking Horse Canyon, huge climbs, speedy descending and Rain like you wouldn't believe. Then Keith pulled an hour and half shift just as the sun was coming out, the views were Epic, as were riding through the 5 tunnels, very scary, narrow shoulders, big Rigs and darkness. But it was all worth it when i saw the Rogers Pass visitor station, absolutely beutifull. I then passed the torch to Matt who with Richard are going to split there shifts into shorter pulls so they can get more power and speed for the climbing.

7 days in and we are working like a well oiled machine. I could never think of anyone else i would want to spend this time with, whether it is the riders, or the support crew, what started off as a TEAM is turning into a Family. We have dinners together, share stories, cry together and will complete this EPIC journey together.

Matt and Richard, finish off Rogers Pass like i know you can!!

Got to go, we are up in an hour to take the team into Revelstoke, then tomorrow morning a rendevous with Nel Peach, a diabetic who is part of a group called the pumpers, should be entertaining. Then off to Kamloops for some media hype, and a JDRF meeting.

Vancouver we are coming, get ready for the party of the year!!!

Team H2V, RV1, Keith

Mountains, beer and legacy.

2007-09-20T11:17:00.001-07:00

As predicted, Calgary did not disappoint! The escort, the crowds and the traditional White Hatting event that basically indicates we are cool. I speak on behalf of the whole team when I share it was a top 10 moment in our athletic careers.

As well, we got to ride as a team again. All of us, same time chatting like the training days. Although we have spoken throughout the trip, Kyle, Will & Keith are in one RV while Richard and myself are in the other. While we have had our competitive moments and idle banter about who’s worked harder and has it better, no one has even gotten beyond themselves or lost the scope and focus of what & why we are doing what we are doing. That’s what makes this team a great group to hang with and be around and that’s exactly what’s going to be needed as we complete the journey through the mountains.

And let’s get to that because immediately after the high energy celebration in Calgary I found myself getting my @#$ handed to me in headwinds heading into the mountains. The wind is strong today and it’s not at our back however we will likely play with the shifts to ensure we are all fully charged.

Now for the request…. and I have 2 more (besides passing on our message, coming out with your bikes and donating monies)

Beer:
A very special group of people we have on board this trip is the mechanics. There are 3 of them and they have been pulling off 12 hour shifts at a time. While the transport vans have the luxury of taking breaks, Tom, Jay and Robert do not. As they are mechanics, there is a special affinity towards beer. So, for those coming to the finish line in English Bay, the team request is that you bring ‘a’, ‘some’ or lot’s of beer to labeled mechanics to show our appreciation for their excellent work. Beer, how easy is that?

Action:
As Mike and many others have eluded to, H2V cannot be a 1 off. If you are reading these blogs and are a member of the JDRF board or know someone who is, please know people are going to have your name and email address and are going to be contacting you to make sure this event is annual. Relay style – coast to coast – combining as many people as we possibly can for years to come. It is going to be a ride across Canada and the groundswell has to come from YOU. We have provided the spark and initial flame, but its up to all of us to feed the fire with wood. We are leaving that to you guys. We’ll help with ideas, we’ll take care of BC in 08, however you have to mobilize your provinces! That’s the deal.

So… Mountains, beer and action – sounds like a Kokanee endorsement but it’s not, it’s our LEGACY.

The Estrogen Factor

2007-09-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

"FROM THE BABES OF RV1"

Day after day people blog in to see how 5 riders are making out on an adventure of a lifetime for an amazing cause. Today, we thought we would offer some incite into a different facet of the overall experience - that of two of the female volunteers along for the ride. We are Leslie Bowling, Driver and Massage Therapist (i.e. the resident sadomasochist), and Carmen Samuda-Lehman Driver and Den Mother (i.e. the resident chief cook and bottle washer)- and we have rocked the show since day 1! From the moment we stepped foot in this RV, the "boys" have had their rules laid out for them (i.e. gear goes in your designated boxes, dishes in the sink, and stinky laundry hung up on the clothesline - neatly strung from one end of the RV to the other, we might add).

We have to confess to a certain degree of failure however. Try as we might we have been unsuccessful in keeping the testosterone down to a manageable level. Toilet humour is often the order of the day and the language flies sometimes - all to be expected on a road trip and is one of the trials and tribulations of living in a frat house environment. Since we are in the minority by far, it has been us who have had to fall into step. We have accepted with pleasure the adage of "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em". The result has been a continuous stream of laughter and memories that will not soon be forgotten. In the words of Anne Lappe “the more you find out about the world the more opportunities you have to laugh at it”.

Team H2V – RV1 (Fred, Willie, Bryan, Leslie, Carmen, Keith, Kyle) - the morning of departure, Halifax!

We are feeling quite blessed this morning to have had the chance to duck in for a quick shower at the YMCA in Medicine Hat, Alberta – only our second shower since leaving Halifax – and our first trip to the laundromat to boil the boys' gear. Thank God for baby wipes and Febreze! Suffice it to say that our RV was well on its way to smelling like a well used hockey bag that had been left in the trunk of a car for the entire season. The guys only started to notice the change in air quality this morning - go figure!

We rolled into Calgary this morning with a police escort to an absolutely phenomenal welcome from the residents and supporters of the JDRF. After a quick and emotional visit with the children and their families, the guys received their official White Stetsons Hats (making them honorary citizens of Calgary), and we were on the road again. We just stopped in Canmore and are about to ascend the Rocky Mountains – a formidable challenge!

Understandably, we are excited to get to home to Vancouver; however, part of us doesn’t want this adventure to end. This experience has been one that has changed our lives and will stay with us forever. The team consists of an amazing group of people. The collective strength of all involved in this incredible endeavour is something to be admired. It is a wonderful example of altruism at its best. We are ever so grateful to have been given the opportunity to contribute. From inception to this point in time the forward momentum has been phenomenal and with no signs of it slowing down, we look forward with the excitement of little kids to our arrival at English Bay on Saturday. Look for us at the finish line. We will be the ones wearing our Team H2V jackets with pride, tears on our faces, and bags under our eyes.

Carmen, Stan Peake (former IF West Van Coach and current Manager of IF Calgary), and Leslie - at the Calgary reception!

Where we are!!

2007-09-20T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hello Folks in Blogville,

The GPS shows that Team H2V is east of Calgary. Part of our team (the Mechanics) are visiting a bike shop to deal with some mechanicals. RV1, Keith-Willie-Kyle-Bryan are resting in Canmore (at Mcdonalds, sorry Katie and Deanna) and RV2 with Matt and Richard are riding their butts off and are 30k outside (east of Canmore) and will be here shortly.

And thanks again to all those who are putting comments on our blog, we are reading them and can not share with you how much the support means to us, especially as we are heading into the Rockies.

See you all soon,

RV1

k

Video is Worth a Million Words

2007-09-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

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A HUGE thank you to the Oliver family who donated $5000.00 this morning at our White Hat ceremony in Calgary!!

Why We Ride

2007-09-20T00:55:00.000-07:00

Just finished shift #10 – the toughest one yet. . It’s a pitch black night and cold in eastern Saskatchewan. Temperature is 0 - +1. I am frozen to the bone

Another night for a lot of thought as I was out alone. Inevitably I look down and see the white line racing by and drift off in thought.

I think back to what really got me reinvigorated and motivated to make a difference for the kids and families dealing with type one – it was an afternoon with Colleen Mitchell, a fellow parent of a type 1 daughter. Colleen showed the reality and strain that this disease imposes on families dealing with diabetes. That afternoon our group shared our personal concerns about the disease and it was then that I realized I wasn’t the only parent dealing with the fears that my daughter might go low in the nigh and not wake up or end up in the hospital with extremely high blood sugars and the nasty consequences of the disease. I also realized that the parents of type 1 diabetes live in constant stress and fear of their children illness

We are not just riding for the 200,000 + kids that have diabetes and the 6,000 - 8,000 kids that are introduced to this disease each year, we are riding for the parents of these kids. We are riding for the families that have to deal with the disease every minute of every day. The parents that have to send their kids off to school for the 1st day not knowing how they are going to cope – or the parents who send their kids off to university after managing their diabetes from the day they were diagnosed. We are riding to eliminate this nagging stress.

We are looking forward to reaching Alberta – the door step to BC, and the biggest challenge yet – the Rookies. For me this is going to be the real test, its going to be cold, dark and steep.

We will hunker down and get the job done.

There’s a few people I look forward to seeing as we enter BC – the 1st of which will be Nel Peach. Nel has been a big supporter of H2V since day one and has done an incredible job spreading the word in the Salmon Arm district.

Thanks for following - good night

Family / Calgary and the final stretch.

2007-09-19T19:01:00.001-07:00

I have to tell Ed and Leslie how impressed I am with the daily support you provide your son Richard with. I can assure you, we have literally watched him grow over the past 14 days during this ride. He’s very lucky to have such a tight network of immediate and extended family and he is so proud to see your comments every day.

And that brings me into tonight’s blog about the contributions from all of the families of those involved with this venture. There are times where I can’t connect with my family because of the hours or responsibilities, however my wife Chantal leaves updates and quick emails daily. The odd call from my 5 & 7 year old sons who are super excited also feels great.

Like Willie, Richard, Kyle, Bryan I have spent the better half of 9 months preparing for this event.. Walking into the house after a 5 hours ride and having my sons ask me to go for a bike ride, made things challenging. However, we are lucky to have their unconditional love and support. Last night Jay, the mechanic hopped in a car with his family who met him at 3:00 am in the morning just so he could spend some quality time with them. I thought that was excellent.

The family impact goes beyond the riders into all of the volunteers. Each day, we receive messages on how proud families are of their loved ones for being a part of this (big or small). So on behalf of all of the riders & organizers – thank you to our great families as well as others who have enabled your loved ones to be here.

Next: One of my favorite cities on the planet – CALGARY!! Lets face it, they don’t do anything small, they have a vibrant energy and they know how to welcome people. I saw Keith’s blog and will second the fact we are coming. Get ready. We will take al you’ve got and we k now you’ve got lots. Now for all those on the GPS wondering what’s going on with the progress this evening, there is a slight chance we will be holding tight at the city limits. Yes, records are relevant, however not at the expense of awareness for this cause and gratitude for peoples efforts. We have learned this the hard way by missing a few engagements but are on track now and going to do our best to make it happen where people have gone to great efforts to welcome us. Segue….

Vancouver Homecoming. Many questions about when and we can tell you right now. We will be home Saturday at noon. We are leaving Hope at 7 am and will be traveling down the #7 all the way in. Maps and information will be forthcoming but we’re telling you this now for a reason. WE WANT YOU TO BRING IT HOME WITH US.

Yes, that’s right. It is a team event and we want to celebrate it with family and friends from our home town. If you have a bike, get it tuned right now (preferably at John Henry’s) and plan to be at a pre determined 10k, 20k, 40k, 60k, 80k or Hope checkpoint on Saturday and ride in with team H2V! Keep your eye’s on the site for more info but we’re telling you NOW so you can be prepared.

Night for now and Ed & Leslie, your son's a stud!

Take This Challenge

2007-09-19T15:48:00.000-07:00

Calgary here we come...5pm in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan and we just finished a very cool ride from Swift Current...We were met by a few local fireman who gave us a full Fire Truck escort (very cool) through town. Ryan Hunter, a local fireman and newbie cyclist, road with me for about 40km, while his buddy turned on the sirens and ripped us through town. This was great support and much needed socialization as we have been alone on the road for a long time. Ryan was just like everyone else we have met this trip, he was totally excited to meet us, ride with us and support us. Ryan and the Swift Current Fire Department presented us with a cheque for $250.00, this was just awesome, and was iciing on the cake from a great person and town. This to me was a great gesture of support, and Team H2V wants to challenge other Fire Departments across the country to donate also, whether a dollar or one thousand dollars, all money is welcome.

This was not our first challenge of the trip either. On our first day, Earl from the Halifax Canaccord office challenged all 140 Canaccord offices to meet and beat their $1000.00 donation. Think about how much that raises, wouldn't that be awesome!!

Tomorrrow morning we arrive in Calgary, hopefully we will be there at our projected time which is 7:45am. We will be riding through Calgary as a team, which will be totally awesome as I miss riding with the boys. We will be meeting with some local dignataries who will be presenting Team H2V with White Cowboy Hats. For Calgary this is equivalent to becoming honary citizens and getting a Key to the city.

So many cities across Canada have come out to support us, whether big like Halifax or small like Massey, people have come out and given what they can to our great and urgent cause.

I want to right now challenge all Western Canadian cities to come out and support Team H2V. We want your support for what is going to be the toughest part of our journey, the last few days as we get close to home. We want your support in the following ways; (a) come out and ride with us, become someone who helps make history, like so many have done so far (b) come out to the side of the roads and cheer us on, yell, scream and make some noise for us (c) the most IMPORTANT, DONATE NOW!!! It has been asked before but i will ask again, PLEASE DONATE NOW!!!! JDRF needs your money, donate to our EPIC JOURNEY and become part of history. Team H2V is doing something special by riding across the country and raising awareness for Juvenile Diabetes, but we are nothing without your DONATIONS, and we will never find a cure for a disease that is a horrible part of so many families daily routines.

On a personal note, I just have to say that this trip is becoming very emotional for me. This morning I read about twenty emails that were sent to us from our info email account. I started reading them to Rider Support 1 (my RV group) and the tears started. We were called heros, saints, people want to meet us, they want to be near us, they were thanking us for doing somehthing that no one else has done. This was very tough for me and my team mates to swallow, we have always thought of this as a great way to help a friend, raise money and awareness for a terrible diesease, and embark on an EPIC adventure, But never to be called a hero.

I can't wait to see you all Saturday at the Beach House in English Bay, for what sounds to me like the Pary of the year....

Don't forget also, please donate, this journey will be for non without donations to help cure this Disease!!!

Keith Nicoll, RV 1.........