Six Mt Adams Riders went to dinner together, with family and friends, the night before the ride. The next day, Matt Anderton and I did the 100 mile option. Lance Armstrong, George Hincapie, Eddie Mercx, Bob Roll and other V.I.P. guests were introduced at the start line. Lance gave a nice speech and we rolled out. Lance's group was given a head start and they disappeared quickly. I stayed with the fast group for 50 minutes and Matt longer. The yellow spokes of the bike Lance won the fifth tour on was the wheel in front of Matt and I often during that time. Matt and I saw each other again at the last rest stop and rode the last 25 miles together.

The weather was beautiful and the course wound through rural country side. Oregonians came out of their houses to wave yellow and cheer as we passed. The ride raised 1.3 million dollars. The cancer fighting displays at Nike headquarters were interesting and the swag cool. One in ten riders who finished were survivors of cancer. There stories were amazing. Look forward to the experiences of our other club members who rode.

Written by -
Brian Cox

The other four Mt. Adams riders, Anne, Jeff, Antonio and Holly had an outstanding experience participating in the first LIVESTRONG ride in Beaverton, Oregon.

Anne and Jeff at the last minute opted for the 40 mile route. Unbeknowced to them, Lance and his entourage pulled into the rest stop they were resting at. With the excitement of seeing Lance, they headed to the post ride party and were present for Lance's speech. Once again seeing Lance upclose.

As for Antonio and I, we set out for the 100 mile ride. The first climb was one of the most challenging hills I've ever faced (not knowing there were worse to come). At the top, the rest stop was oustanding. It was at a private home mimicking the tour de France; with the devil, the signs and the bike of flags on the country hillside. Needless to say Antonio was excited, being it reminded him of his trip to see the 2004 tour de France. The second cliff was by far the steepest climb I've ever faced. What a struggle, but imagine the decent!!! SWEET!!!

Feeling we had accomplished enough for one day we decided to take it in to enjoy the rest of the post ride party. Finishing with 75 miles, we felt a ride well done!

Written by -
Holly Krahn