I think the one characteristic that defines me is the presence of an Indomitable Spirit. A spirit that will not give up when faced with insurmountable challenges, obstacles and hardships.
RAAM is a mysterious adventure that explores the depth of a person’s inner soul. Through this physical and mental confrontation, one’s true spirit is revealed. This is what attracts me to ultra cycling: pushing the limits of my own physical and mental boundaries. Ever since I began cycling over 10 years ago and started to read about it, RAAM was something I viewed a mythical adventure. I was inspired it, I was motivated by it, and I was driven to take my ability, along with my determined mindset, to pursue a dream that gave me a sense of purpose.
Over the last 10 years, RAAM is something that has been the catalyst for all my training rides and races. Every ride, every epic experience brings me closer to that dream and shapes my character for the rigors of RAAM itself. I call these experiences my layers; these are the layers that will be stripped away as I compete in RAAM, until what is left will be the very core of who I am. In my case that core is the same 16 year old kid that rode in -27 degree weather all night long in the middle of the Adirondack Mountains because he believed in his ability and the power of an Indomitable Spirit.
I’ve trained patiently and with great commitment for the last 10 years. I’ve progressively competed in events that not only tested my fitness, but matured my mind. My win in the RAAM qualifier was confirmation for me that all my efforts up to that point had put me on the right path to success. This training combined with the opportunity I had to witness RAAM first hand as a crew member for Kevin Wallace, gives me the confidence to pursue my ultimate goal. I am prepared to fight the fight of my life and dig deeper than I ever have before in order to secure a victory in the world toughest race.
"I am proud to dedicate my entry in RAAM to all children with cancer."
You can help me and the entire Team RACE movement bring the joys of childhood to brave kids living with and beyond cancer. 100% of donations raised through my effort will go to special camps that distract children from the rigors of cancer treatment and recovery by surrounding them with activities, friendships and opportunities that might otherwise be preempted. Your donation will not only inspire my Race Against Cancer Everywhere but make a tangible improvement in the quality of life for thousands of heroic kids.
