Fabio's view of the START!

Fabio is one of our support crew members! I have been with him a lot of the race so far, he has been an amazing driver/navigator!!

Adam

June 11 – Race Day!

This glorious day began with some last minute shopping at Walmart – batteries, Gatorade, water (36 Gallons!), double shots, much chocolate, rolls, recovery drink (you get the idea…). After a hearty breakfast, Mama D brought in a birthday pie for Alex, who turned 23 today. Happy birthday, Alex! Papa D next briefed the team on final preparations. Merrill then reviewed logistics for the first 54 miles of the race, which includes the Parade route, a tightly controlled support section, and a leapfrog support section.

After the team meeting, with supplies in hand, the workers jumped into action, reconfiguring Leapfrog and Follow vehicles for the first few segments of the race. Each vehicle was stocked with gels and bars, 5G of Cera Sport, and repair supplies. Cooks made sandwiches and stocked coolers with other drinks.

With plenty of time to spare, it was off to the starting line, where our heroes socialized with other teams (many of which just shook their heads, wondering how these guys would fare on their Surleys). Adam chatted with the founder of TT1. We heard more stories of supporting charities, bike building, and cool gear. Hydration and nutrition intake continued, and rider introductions commenced around 13:15 hours local time. Patt led the team in a quick prayer, and then AFC (Team 402) rolled to the line amid tremendous cheers. After all riders were in place and the National Anthem was sung, the countdown began, 10, 9, 8…

After launch, the crew headed to the support vehicles and parted ways.

I’m sitting at the table, tapping on Weez’s laptop as the RV sways gently, making its way along Route 78, 3.9 miles away from our first landing point. In just a few short minutes the crew will spring into action, heating dinner, setting up dishwashing and laundry stations, and preparing for the first shift of riders to arrive. Spirits and energy are high, with both expectations and uncertainty in our minds. My guess is that right about now Adam is waiting for the other 3 riders to turn over the baton to him. He will then face 8 miles of solo uphill racing. I’d love to see the look on the other racers’ faces as he Steamrolls them and they struggle to downshift and keep their cadence. I’m glad I’m here…

Fabio