Note: Please visit our 2017 LL4T1D Cure Team page for information about this year’s team and ride.
JDRF Death Valley Ride 2016: An Exhilarating and Inspiring Experience!
How was the JDRF Death Valley Ride? Brutal, exhilarating, and inspiring!
Imagine hell during a heat wave, then add 35-50 mph crosswinds — those were the conditions we faced during the first 40 miles. Because of the winds, which slowed everybody down considerably, and cut-off times to reach certain points on the course, I was one of only 40 riders (out of 300) who was able to reach Jubilee Pass and complete the 102 miles. It took me 7:09 to finish. I felt like throwing up and giving up many times, but thinking of my daughter and all those living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and the fact they can’t afford to give up gave me the strength to keep going.
It was exhilarating and inspiring to see so many people – my teammates, other riders, coaches, and volunteers – coming together for this great cause. The JDRF Death Valley ride raised $1.5 million to help turn Type One into Type None. Our Logistics Leaders for T1D Cure Team (LL4T1DCure) raised $43,000 for the cause!
To my teammates Charity Newsome, Gina Pratico, James Coon, and Ken Wood: Thank you for all of the time and energy you invested in training for this ride and helping to raise funds. I was truly inspired by your dedication, as well as your grit and resolve during the ride. Sharing this experience with you, which we all agree was the hardest ride we’ve ever done, is what made it extra special for me.
To our sponsors Descartes, Elemica, LeanLogistics, and MercuryGate, as well as the many family members and friends who donated: Your generosity made this experience possible, and your donations will go a long way toward improving the lives of people living with T1D, so thank you, thank you, thank you!
Now that the ride is over, I’m already planning for next year. If you’re interested in learning more about our LL4T1DCure Team and riding with us next year, please contact me.