Friday, September 30, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Day 3 and 4
Hi to all our supporters....it's Scott and I want to apologize for neglecting the blog for a few days. There was a computer glitch on Friday night to be able to blog and I wasn't exactly seeing straight Saturday night to blog!!
Ok, Friday was our long day at approximately 186kms. This is a day we dread and look forward to at the same time because despite the agony of our first year in the cold rain and heavy headwind, last year was hot sun and a tailwind that made for the most memorable day of cycling yet for our Tour. Best day of cycling evvveeerrrr!!! I digress.
This year we were met with excellent temperatures but a headwind. We decided early on that we needed to work together as long as we could to make the day work and conserve energy. Another epic day in the saddle as we all fought our way through the day and found strength in some place deep inside ourselves where you only go when giving up is not an option. We all had conversations with ourselves that can't be shared....especially with children!! As is tradition, the Gravill clan met us on the run into Westport and we had a short visit before tackling the steep incline out of town. We were also joined by a special visitor this year on the third day. Mark Womack from the Foundation set up his camera at the side of the road at various locations and took some great pics of the team. There were two poses; smiling on the flats and blank stares of agony on the hill out of Westport!!
It was on the hill out of Westport that the Team split for good till Perth. The three amigos; Brent, Slodan and Curtis put the pedal down and were gone by the time everyone else made it to the top of the climb. Mini pacelines formed after this and we worked together to bring ourselves into Perth then formed up as a team again as we headed to our motel. The only potentially catastrophic injury to this point was that Doc had lost feeling in two fingers. He was attempting to self diagnose which was interesting to watch. We felt terrible that a surgeon had lost the use of two fingers however, the rest of us had no use of our lower extremities and weren't complaining at all. Although we were dying to self diagnose. I digress.
Once in Perth we took long hot showers and soaked in tubs until the traditional visit to our favorite Mexican restaurant downtown. Three years later and we're still wondering who ever had the bright idea of going for Mexican food after cycling 186kms.
We woke up Saturday morning and had a good breakfast at Penny's...where it's just us cyclists sitting four to a booth and the local camoflaged boys who can only fit two to a booth...not much eye contact goes on!
This is a day of mixed emotions for us because we are excited to get to the Hill but also know that it's our final day of riding together. It's also a day that contains a town sign that has become the most sought after town sign on the Tour. The Richardson town sign is about 7kms into the ride. This year I was particularly concerned about the sign because I had beaten Slodan last year to take it however this year he was taking most town signs and was in great form. So it was a welcome sight to see Brent at my door Saturday morning wanting to come in and create a strategy to win the sign. The plan was, we'll get Chris to start the lead out, Brent will be behind and I will be in the third spot and they will wind me up and catapult me to a win!! Destroy the enemy!! This is how it played out. As I'm casually waiting for Brent to ride beside me and give me the wink, all I see is a flash of bodies fly past me led by Peter and yelling for others to join in. All I could think of was "they've conspired against me". Now the rain starts and I'm convinced my team has joined forces with God to cause me to lose the sprint because I hate sprinting in rain. I'm 30 meters behind and figure I better stop raging and get rolling. I catch the group and give Peter a death stare as he drops off from old age. I'm happy as I realize its now Chris, Brent and me and Slodan is on our right but we're pacing him perfectly. My happiness is cut short when I suddenly realize that Chris has put himself in front of Slodan and is leading out the enemy!! I can see the look of pure satisfaction on Slodans face as he launches off the back of Chris' wheel...Brent and I go as well but it's too late and once again Slodan is in a league of his own this year and takes the Richardson sign. It was a great victory and one worth fighting for next year. I'm still wondering why the team wanted my urine sample tested after I took the sign in front of Slodan last year, but they didn't request his this year.
The Saturday ride was really enjoyable because we stayed together for all 90kms and really looked like a team with our new team jersey and shorts on. I was incredibly proud as I stayed at the back and watched us ride up the small climbs onto the Hill to the cheer of family members and others who were simply visiting the Hill from all parts of the world. We made it. Hugs and high fives as we dismounted in front of the Memorial Pavilion and then Mark Womack took team and individual photos on the Hill for us. We then lined up in front of the tower to welcome the Ride and Run To Remember teams as they arrived on the Hill.
As has become our tradition now, we all gathered with family and extended Team family at Carmello's restaurant later and had a great meal as photos were shown of the Tour. We were greeted Sunday morning with excellent weather on the Hill for the ceremony. We marched to the Hill behind our band for the first time and I think we all had a little extra spring in our step because of it. Our Service members looked tremendous.
A big thanks goes out to all of Team 3C for their hard work, determination, courage, friendship and humor throughout the Tour. We are truly blessed to have such a great group of committed members willing to sacrifice so much and work so hard to ensure this Tour continues. Our support crew; Roxy, Karen, Pete and Greg keep this machine finely tuned and running smoothly. This Tour would not happen if it wasn't for the quality of support crew we have. Thank you also to our families who support us in our preparation and make the journey to Ottawa to share in the conclusion of the Tour and the Memorial.
I think I speak for all the Team members, whether it's riders or support crew, when I say that at some point once the bikes are tucked away, we all pause and think about what we've just accomplished. We've pushed our bodies to their limits in many cases and achieved results we didn't think we could. When the pain of riding depletes us, we think about the fight in those with cancer and it gives us inner strength and inspiration to keep going. Most importantly, we've done our small part to ensure that those going through their cancer journey are being cared for with the best possible treatment program by the best possible care givers. Cancer patients deserve that and nothing less.
Thanks for taking a look at our daily blogs. Stay tuned for Ride Of Your Life Tour 2012!
Scott
Ok, Friday was our long day at approximately 186kms. This is a day we dread and look forward to at the same time because despite the agony of our first year in the cold rain and heavy headwind, last year was hot sun and a tailwind that made for the most memorable day of cycling yet for our Tour. Best day of cycling evvveeerrrr!!! I digress.
This year we were met with excellent temperatures but a headwind. We decided early on that we needed to work together as long as we could to make the day work and conserve energy. Another epic day in the saddle as we all fought our way through the day and found strength in some place deep inside ourselves where you only go when giving up is not an option. We all had conversations with ourselves that can't be shared....especially with children!! As is tradition, the Gravill clan met us on the run into Westport and we had a short visit before tackling the steep incline out of town. We were also joined by a special visitor this year on the third day. Mark Womack from the Foundation set up his camera at the side of the road at various locations and took some great pics of the team. There were two poses; smiling on the flats and blank stares of agony on the hill out of Westport!!
It was on the hill out of Westport that the Team split for good till Perth. The three amigos; Brent, Slodan and Curtis put the pedal down and were gone by the time everyone else made it to the top of the climb. Mini pacelines formed after this and we worked together to bring ourselves into Perth then formed up as a team again as we headed to our motel. The only potentially catastrophic injury to this point was that Doc had lost feeling in two fingers. He was attempting to self diagnose which was interesting to watch. We felt terrible that a surgeon had lost the use of two fingers however, the rest of us had no use of our lower extremities and weren't complaining at all. Although we were dying to self diagnose. I digress.
Once in Perth we took long hot showers and soaked in tubs until the traditional visit to our favorite Mexican restaurant downtown. Three years later and we're still wondering who ever had the bright idea of going for Mexican food after cycling 186kms.
We woke up Saturday morning and had a good breakfast at Penny's...where it's just us cyclists sitting four to a booth and the local camoflaged boys who can only fit two to a booth...not much eye contact goes on!
This is a day of mixed emotions for us because we are excited to get to the Hill but also know that it's our final day of riding together. It's also a day that contains a town sign that has become the most sought after town sign on the Tour. The Richardson town sign is about 7kms into the ride. This year I was particularly concerned about the sign because I had beaten Slodan last year to take it however this year he was taking most town signs and was in great form. So it was a welcome sight to see Brent at my door Saturday morning wanting to come in and create a strategy to win the sign. The plan was, we'll get Chris to start the lead out, Brent will be behind and I will be in the third spot and they will wind me up and catapult me to a win!! Destroy the enemy!! This is how it played out. As I'm casually waiting for Brent to ride beside me and give me the wink, all I see is a flash of bodies fly past me led by Peter and yelling for others to join in. All I could think of was "they've conspired against me". Now the rain starts and I'm convinced my team has joined forces with God to cause me to lose the sprint because I hate sprinting in rain. I'm 30 meters behind and figure I better stop raging and get rolling. I catch the group and give Peter a death stare as he drops off from old age. I'm happy as I realize its now Chris, Brent and me and Slodan is on our right but we're pacing him perfectly. My happiness is cut short when I suddenly realize that Chris has put himself in front of Slodan and is leading out the enemy!! I can see the look of pure satisfaction on Slodans face as he launches off the back of Chris' wheel...Brent and I go as well but it's too late and once again Slodan is in a league of his own this year and takes the Richardson sign. It was a great victory and one worth fighting for next year. I'm still wondering why the team wanted my urine sample tested after I took the sign in front of Slodan last year, but they didn't request his this year.
The Saturday ride was really enjoyable because we stayed together for all 90kms and really looked like a team with our new team jersey and shorts on. I was incredibly proud as I stayed at the back and watched us ride up the small climbs onto the Hill to the cheer of family members and others who were simply visiting the Hill from all parts of the world. We made it. Hugs and high fives as we dismounted in front of the Memorial Pavilion and then Mark Womack took team and individual photos on the Hill for us. We then lined up in front of the tower to welcome the Ride and Run To Remember teams as they arrived on the Hill.
As has become our tradition now, we all gathered with family and extended Team family at Carmello's restaurant later and had a great meal as photos were shown of the Tour. We were greeted Sunday morning with excellent weather on the Hill for the ceremony. We marched to the Hill behind our band for the first time and I think we all had a little extra spring in our step because of it. Our Service members looked tremendous.
A big thanks goes out to all of Team 3C for their hard work, determination, courage, friendship and humor throughout the Tour. We are truly blessed to have such a great group of committed members willing to sacrifice so much and work so hard to ensure this Tour continues. Our support crew; Roxy, Karen, Pete and Greg keep this machine finely tuned and running smoothly. This Tour would not happen if it wasn't for the quality of support crew we have. Thank you also to our families who support us in our preparation and make the journey to Ottawa to share in the conclusion of the Tour and the Memorial.
I think I speak for all the Team members, whether it's riders or support crew, when I say that at some point once the bikes are tucked away, we all pause and think about what we've just accomplished. We've pushed our bodies to their limits in many cases and achieved results we didn't think we could. When the pain of riding depletes us, we think about the fight in those with cancer and it gives us inner strength and inspiration to keep going. Most importantly, we've done our small part to ensure that those going through their cancer journey are being cared for with the best possible treatment program by the best possible care givers. Cancer patients deserve that and nothing less.
Thanks for taking a look at our daily blogs. Stay tuned for Ride Of Your Life Tour 2012!
Scott
What a Team
I have been sitting at my computer for 30 minutes trying to put into words what I felt when we arrived in Ottawa. I was training to do the Ride last year when I was diagnosed with kidney cancer. Quite frankly I did not think I would be around to even entertain riding again. Eighteen months later we roll into Ottawa, I see my girls standing at the Police Memorial and it was a moment I will never forget. Memories from critiquing the flowers with Caddy, the strong push from the Deputy to get me back in the pack, Docs sense of humour and all of the encouragement from the team. I have never been so proud to be a part of a team. We raised money for the Grand River Regional Cancer Center, raised awareness for the Police Memorial and had a blast doing it. Thank you to the team and to all that supported us. With your help Cancer can be Conquered.
Tim
Tim
Saturday, September 24, 2011
ROYL conquers Parliament Hill
Friday, September 23, 2011
Okay so this may seem a bit weird but a few buttons on the keyboard are not working so you are going to ha e to figure out the spa e game. Oh and one of them is the enter button. Tanya "aka" Mom............ it was ni e to talk to you tonight. I an't wait to see you when you get home. Ma Ewan says "your the best mom in the world and I love you!" To all of you riding I hope your last day is fun and you all arri e safe....................Hailey
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Day 2
Today is Day 2 and we traveled a total of 172 kilometers and it seemed like it was only hills up, hills on a curve and hills after the last hill. What was missing was the down portion of the hill.
We were blessed with a wonderful day of weather from the moment we started the ride in New Market to the completion of the day in Campbellford. Mr. Sunshine followed us all day which was a welcomed team member from yesterday's dense fog and moisture from the rain.
The morning had the Team riding together as a group at a steady pace. We were treated to wonderful hydration and nutrition by our "unsung hero's" partnered with their welcomed smiles, enthusiasm and motivation.
After lunch the Team split into groups going at their own pace and conquering the hills at their own speeds. Once again the Waters Edge Inn welcomed us. Chris took a plunge into the cold waters of the Trent River and Jenn did one better by dawning her tri-suit, cap and goggles and went for a swim.
After everyone enjoyed the heat of the showers the Team met and went to a local restaurant and were treated to a great meal to replenish the calories burned on today's ride. The Team were tired but not as many nodded off as last night.
Tomorrow is our long day at approximately 190 kilometers and they are calling for rain, rain, more rain, head wind and cooler temperatures. Due to this fact all Team members were happy to hit the pillow early. Even though we are expecting less than desirable weather all members are unmoved on their motivation for this event.
Thank you to the posts from family members. Your words of encouragement are priceless. We miss you all!
Scott
We were blessed with a wonderful day of weather from the moment we started the ride in New Market to the completion of the day in Campbellford. Mr. Sunshine followed us all day which was a welcomed team member from yesterday's dense fog and moisture from the rain.
The morning had the Team riding together as a group at a steady pace. We were treated to wonderful hydration and nutrition by our "unsung hero's" partnered with their welcomed smiles, enthusiasm and motivation.
After lunch the Team split into groups going at their own pace and conquering the hills at their own speeds. Once again the Waters Edge Inn welcomed us. Chris took a plunge into the cold waters of the Trent River and Jenn did one better by dawning her tri-suit, cap and goggles and went for a swim.
After everyone enjoyed the heat of the showers the Team met and went to a local restaurant and were treated to a great meal to replenish the calories burned on today's ride. The Team were tired but not as many nodded off as last night.
Tomorrow is our long day at approximately 190 kilometers and they are calling for rain, rain, more rain, head wind and cooler temperatures. Due to this fact all Team members were happy to hit the pillow early. Even though we are expecting less than desirable weather all members are unmoved on their motivation for this event.
Thank you to the posts from family members. Your words of encouragement are priceless. We miss you all!
Scott
Go Daddy Go!
It was great to get an update on your ride yesterday. Thank you! You made great time despite the weather so congratulations. We wish you lots of luck on this hilly day and can't wait to see you Friday around Westport.
... Does anyone else think $100,000 for a three year total is achievable?
Cancer seems to take away so much, but please remember what it can't do: It can't corrupt the soul, or stop the healthy from doing their part to dismantle it.
Thanks Team 3C for doing your part!
Isabelle and Sarah Mae
... Does anyone else think $100,000 for a three year total is achievable?
Cancer seems to take away so much, but please remember what it can't do: It can't corrupt the soul, or stop the healthy from doing their part to dismantle it.
Thanks Team 3C for doing your part!
Isabelle and Sarah Mae
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Day 1
Day 1 is complete and Team 3C is breathing a sigh of relief! The day started at 6:30am at our Headquarters loading bikes and luggage into the support vehicles then on to the Grand River Regional Cancer Centre for the event opening ceremonies and departure.
We were shocked and impressed to see such a great turnout of support from hospital staff, family and event partners at the kick off. Deputy Chief Steve Beckett was on hand and Deputy Chief Brent Thomlison spoke and gave his thanks for our community's support for Ride Of Your Life. Ron Caudle of the Grand River Hospital Foundation also spoke and thanked the Team for their fundraising efforts and let the crowd know that as of this morning our event had raised $26,000. Our three year total is an astonishing amount of just over $80,000!!!
The Team said their final goodbyes to friends and family and Hailey Cole presented each rider with a homemade bracelet made from blue and red thread to represent policing and yellow to support the fight against cancer. We made one ceremonial lap of the Cancer Centre ring road and that commenced our journey.
I started today's blog saying that Team 3C is breathing a sigh of relief. We were immediately met with heavy fog making our ability to be seen on the road difficult for passing vehicles and a head wind for most of the day which made it increasingly demanding on most of the riders. The route was changed slightly for this years event resulting in more challenging hills and plenty of sore legs. The day ended in rain as we entered New Market and finally to our temporary home at the Comfort Inn met by the support staff providing recovery drinks for all!
The day could not have been such a success without the commitment of the support crew to ensure the team was well fed, hydrated during the brief stops, and kept safe from passing motorists.
The team were in need of some nutrition and off to supper we went. I have never seen so many riders nod off during the first team dinner as today! In spite of that we are a tough crew and are committed to supporting each other and the reason for this event. We will get stronger as the week goes on! We can only do that with the support of our friends and family so please post some continuing words of encouragement for our Team 3C riders.
Scott Richardson
 | ||||
| Hailey Cole presenting Dr. Craig McFadyen with his Team 3C bracelet |
 | ||||||||||
| Final line up before departing |
 | ||
| Sloden carefully packing up the bikes for departure for the Cancer Centre |
 | |
| Daisy needs refueling too! |
 |
| Matt brought his "Go bag". Not sure his gels and chamois cream will fit! |
The unsung heroes of the ROYL team
And they're off!!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
A quick THANK YOU before I leave.....
 |
| The road ahead.... |
I want to make sure some people are acknowledged for their help and support of me in my trek to Ottawa from Kitchener. First it will be my family. They have supported me through the winter months on my trainer and through out rain and shine the past few months. Hailey! What a kid. She has made a bracelet for each rider in the colours of red and blue representing Police and incorporated yellow to signify Cancer awareness. Just amazing!
I also want to acknowledge a fine group of individuals that I spent two weeks with at the Ontario Police College. This class of 20 officers from around the province from services such as O.P.P., Niagara Regional, Peterborough, Ottawa, York Regional, and Chatham-Kent (I hope I didn't miss anyone) we generous enough to lend me their ear and allowed me to explain this ride. They also were presented with the video that is linked to the ROYL home page and astonished at the amazing difference that the Cancer Center has accomplished. With that they collectively donated $355 to the cause. Thank you!
The current recruit class met me at OPC and surprised me with an envelope of $300 that they also collectively raised to help the members of our community and support this ride. Again, another amazing group of officers that will soon serve our community proud.
Also, thank you to South Division Platoon #2 who raised funds in support of the ride. They were treated to a breakfast cooked by retired firefighter / current police officer, and my husband, Bruce Cole. Thank you for your support.
For all of those who have donated online, in person and have provided words of encouragement I thank you all. I could not have done this (and do this) without you. As of tonight, currently 10:16 pm the night before the ride you have all helped me raise just over $1600. My goal was $1280, which was $2 per kilometer, and you have all helped me surpass that. This ride has everything to do with helping the members of our community who have, are or will be affected by Cancer and the support of funds received will benefit them all. Thank you!
Tanya Natyshak-Cole
Windsor.
Hello team members and everyone supporting us on this journey,
I wanted to post a few pictures from the pre-ride I did Monday Sept 19th & Tuesday Sept 20th from Windsor to Kitchener.
I was only able to complete 100km's during the first leg from Windsor to London. There was simply to much rain and it was quite cold.
Looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow in front of the Cancer Centre for the send off!
Matt Allen
I wanted to post a few pictures from the pre-ride I did Monday Sept 19th & Tuesday Sept 20th from Windsor to Kitchener.
I was only able to complete 100km's during the first leg from Windsor to London. There was simply to much rain and it was quite cold.
However, the second leg from London to Kitchener was better, with the sun shining. Hope the weather is much the same during our ride to Ottawa.
Looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow in front of the Cancer Centre for the send off!
Matt Allen
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Welcome to a new SPONSOR!
The Ride of Your Life team wants to welcome Gerry and his team at Schorn Consultants Inc. to the Ride of Your Life as a Gold sponsor.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)