Ralph Dallier, Rob Casalou and Lee Benjamin enjoy a light moment. The jersey Rob is wearing that has a medal painted on the front, was designed by a wish child. It was an honor to wear it.
Day 1 Journal:
The day started early with Team Joe’s riders fed and ready to hit the road by 6:30am. Our actual departure time was 6:40am (waiting for a couple last minute stragglers) which set Rosalie Tocco-Bradley in motion because she wanted an “on-time start” (a hazard of her day job). But, with spirits high, the team set off from Traverse City.
Today was the day of hills and climbing. The total distance was about 99 miles our first day and it felt like 50 of them were on inclines varying from short bursts to long ones that burned the legs. A few were placed in cruel areas like the largest of the day at mile 90 – really? We all looked at it, said some things that Sister Yvonne would not approve, and dug in. The good news is that everyone survived, everyone was smiling and we were greeted at Ferris State by kids and families clapping us to the finish line. We then all headed to our respective hotels or tents because showers were wanted and NEEDED. Once again, the Make-A-Wish team provided everything we needed including a wonderful dinner. For the record, Ferris State has the BEST food.
As we wrap up day 1 most of us will be lights out very early to begin Day 2 even earlier. Tomorrow is our long day – 109 miles. The route has less hills so the challenge is distance. And our prize at the end of the day is the WHAMMY Awards after dinner in Dewitt where we celebrate the success of the event but, more importantly, we will be joined by many wish kids. In fact, we will be granting a wish at the WHAMMY’S this year – how special.
I am so blessed to be with some awesome Team Joe’s members along with 850 of our new friends all out here riding to grant wishes. I am proud and grateful of everyone on Team Joe’s. Have a good night all. More to come tomorrow.
Rob
