This year’s event was like starting over. I have heard that once you get past the first year as an event coordinator, things get much easier. That would have been true but, we were forced to change our venue which was certainly a challenge. Although, Baltimore City allowed four of us to have the event a Loch Raven Reservior; our wish to expand the event forced a venue change. We needed a Mountain bike-friendly trail system. Rob Dyke, Park Service Supervisor at Patapsco Valley State Park came to the rescue! The support from Rob and his staff was terrific and really laid the ground work for another successful year. In addition to the change in location, there were personal challenges for me as well. Time was slipping away; I was falling behind; and I was considering cancelling the event for 2008. My subsequent email to our committee regarding the possibility of cancellation touched off a firestorm. Everyone immediately took more ownership and told me not to worry. It was an overwhelming display of support. I would like to recognize two key individuals for the success of this year’s event: Mark Thomey and Ray Mercado. They ensured everything was handled. I would also like to recognize Phil Yakim, Rob Lynch, Bruce Robertson and Jeff Orbin. Without these individuals, this event would not have been as smooth.

It was a beautiful morning for the event. Committee members and volunteers were waiting for the gates to open at 7 a.m. and went right to work. We had 70 total riders participate and a steady flow of people showing support. There was food for everyone, a band (The Dropouts) and activities for the children. Our main bike shop sponsor, Race Pace, was there in force. Not only did they supply quality tech support for the duration of the event, but the owner’s son and some of the staff participated. A class operation is Race Pace Bike Shop!

While I wasn’t able to ride, working the entire event this year gave me an opportunity to meet all the riders. I met Susan Mele who represents Trek bikes. She is one of the individuals that won the essay contest, “Trek Women That Ride”. Trek came up with a remarkable concept to identify with the everyday rider and ask women from all over the country to submit how riding has had a positive effect on their lives. Susan won the essay contest for the road bike discipline. She is a fantastic person and they certainly picked a winner. I invited Susan and hopefully she can find the time to get involved in next year’s event. Check out Susan’s blog at: www.womenwhoride.typepad.com/susan

The event was a success for me for many reasons. It has been remarkable and truly gratifying thing to see this idea transformed into an exciting event in a couple of years. It was exciting to see my son, Gavin, shed his training wheels for the first time for this event. He took off and didn’t stop all day. I was a proud father that day! I mentioned several times that people need to take the time to think about making a difference. I made a commitment to do that and I now know what it means to give something back. Our children are the most precious resource we have. We need to do whatever we can to make sure they have the opportunity to live long happy lives.

I am proud to announce that our event raised over $10,000.00 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Our goal for next year is $20,000.00 and I know with all the support and interest we received this year, it will happen!