As the race comes to an end...

Jared (Patrick's son) and I were walking around downtown Annapolis today. We wanted to scope out the finish so we're not late meeting them tonight. This 9 day journey started years ago and this evening our team and crew will make it to the finish.

I talked to a few members of the RAAM staff this afternoon. Each of them said how incredible Team Can Be Venture is. It got me thinking. They are an incredible group of racers (and crew - we can't forget them). No, they are an incredible group of individuals. RAAM is simply (not to be mistaken for a simple race) an example of what these men are about. This is a hard race - ok, a very hard race for anyone, for everyone. So yes, it might be considered more difficult because the bikes weigh so much more and it's more difficult to climb (that's a bit obvious since it's never been done before) - but they didn't want an extended time allotment. They were going to do this race as they tackle everything else - by the same rules that apply for the masses.

I asked Jared last night if he was ever worried about the team not finishing. He said "no, because dad trained really hard and was ready. Of course they were going to finish." Well said Jared. There is the bigger message this race carries for this team and one I've found in being part of this journey. You have a goal, you come up with a plan, you work hard to be ready and then you attack it.

They knew no other handcycle team had done it in 9 days before.

They knew it would be REALLY hard.

They knew it would hurt (both physically and mentally).

They knew they would do it. Failure was not an option.

This is how these men live their lives and not because they are disabled and in chairs. This is who they are. I/we can learn a lot from them. I do everyday from Patrick - he is my gift (ok, enough wife mushy stuff).

Hit it hard baby. Finish strong. We're waiting for you (with your Woodford Reserve). We're so proud of you, the team and your FABULOUS crew.

Jennifer (& Jared)