With the proceeds raised by the QMDC, we will make a long-standing dream come true – helping CAF finally acquire a new Headquarters facility that will serve as gathering point and beacon of hope for challenged athletes from around the world. The funds raised will be used to benefit future generations of challenged athletes by creating a state-of-the art facility that will be more – much more – than just office space. It will be a gathering place for our supporters and the challenged athletes we serve. It will be the epicenter of our movement, which will continue to positively impact and define the way the world views people with disabilities.
Our vision is for a multipurpose, modern, interactive facility that will comprehensively address the needs of the heroes helped by the Challenged Athletes Foundation at all levels – whether they are kids needing a mentor, U.S. military personnel permanently injured in Iraq and Afghanistan putting their lives back together, or elite Paralympians seeking the next level of performance and accomplishment.
We would like to acknowledge the following riders who have so far committed to ride and raise funds all three years of the QMDC. They will each raise $30,000 (and many will raise much more) for CAF and the new Headquarters by the end of 2008 - an incredible contribution! Thank you to Kayvon Agahnia, Jeffrey Essakow, Jill Essakow, Dana Frug, Mitch Goldman, Carlos Gutierrez, Deb Hoffman, Gary Levitt, Greg Jabin, Jeff Jacobs, James McCann, Larry Scott, David Vigil and Larry White. A special permanent recognition plaque will be placed in the new facility to acknowledge these “Triple Crown Riders.” There are also several challenged athletes and group leaders who will hit the mark of riding all three years. We also thank them for their commitment and congratulate them on their accomplishments.
Next week we will provide a link to the full list of everyone who is registered for the 2008 ride. Is it time to put your name on the list?
Thinking of you Bill!
As many of you know, Bill Duvel, one of last year’s QMDC cycling group leaders and directional arrow painter, was in a serious cycling accident last weekend while racing a Criterium. Bill suffered 9 broken ribs, a broken wrist and many cuts and bruises. Bill was in the hospital for several days but is now home and resting. He is expected to make a 100% recovery. Terry Martin and Bill thank everyone for the kind words and support. If you want to send a message you can email tpmartin@ucsd.edu. We continue to wish you well Bill!
Coach's Corner from Mari Holden
Safety First!
I was riding on the coast last weekend when the temperatures were in the 90’s and the sun was shining. It was an absolutely picture perfect day. I couldn’t believe how many people were out on their bikes, and being active outdoors in general.There are some things that we as cyclists need to remember when we share the roads with everyone heading to the beaches, etc. The most important thing is to always pay attention. It’s easy to get distracted, or get so focused on going fast that we forget to look around us. This past weekend, there were thousands of people flocking to the beaches, and it was dangerous. People are looking for parking spots, trying to take care of their kids, on the phone, and it's not that they are intentionally trying to be dangerous, but they are. We need to focus on predicting the next move. For example, you see a car that slows a bit and then speeds up, you get the sense that they are going to just pull into the next space even if they aren’t remembering to put on their blinker. You need to have your instincts on high alert for all kinds of situations.I have actually found most of the drivers in San Diego to be on the cautious side around cyclists. They are definitely used to seeing them on the road, but it just takes one person who is not paying attention to really ruin your day. Enjoy the amazing weather, but keep your eyes open and stay alert! AND ALWAYS WEAR YOUR HELMET.
Mari is headed to the Tour de Georgia which starts on April 21st. She will be providing race interviews, commentary and insight for Versus. Check it out at www.thebroadbandracer.com and on her website at www.mariholden.com.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Update 4/11
Welcome to our most recent registrants. We are so honored to have 19 participants who have committed to ride for the third year in a row! We have another 16 who will be marking their second year of riding and, of course, many first time QMDC riders as well.
Coach's Corner from Mari Holden
I know that everyone is getting excited about training! I keep seeing more and more QMDC jerseys on the road. Last week we talked about getting our equipment ready, but this week I want to talk a bit about getting ourselves mentally ready for the 20-week training program that starts in June. There is no question that we will all be able to do this ride down the coast. The training will build up to our big test, but if you follow the training you will not only have fun and learn a lot, but you will be fit enough to accomplish the huge goal of riding from San Francisco to San Diego.
All of us come into this event from different backgrounds. Some people have raced triathlons, and bike races, and others are just learning how to clip into the pedals. Don’t worry or be intimidated! We are all pedaling for the same reason. We support Challenged Athletes. Being a part of the QMDC means a lot more than just getting fit and riding down the coast. It means being a part of a dynamic group of people who want to help others accomplish their dreams, and that is something really special.
My challenge is to try and come up with a training program that works for everyone. My main goal is to make sure that anyone who is willing to commit to the training will be able to finish the ride. My secondary goal is to share my love of cycling, and hope that you come to love this sport as much as I do.
We have chosen a group of ride leaders who are committed to making your experience the best possible one we can offer. At our first ride leader meeting last week, I laid out my goals, and my feeling that the most important thing to share is motivation and keeping it fun. If anytime along the way you have any questions or issues, please don’t hesitate to call. That includes the time before the actual training program starts. There will be training tips from the ride leaders and myself every week along the way, and hopefully you will get to know us all.
I encourage you all to start riding now. It will make it much easier if you have some base miles in your legs before the training starts. Just enjoy yourself. Feel the wind in your face, and enjoy being out on the road. If you have any health issues, make sure you contact your physician before you start getting into your training. We’re going to have a great time this year. I’ll see you on the road!
Whole Foods Community Support Day for Challenged Athletes Foundation
On Wednesday April 16th Whole Foods Market in La Jolla will be donating 5% of total sales to the Challenged Athletes Foundation.
With your help spreading the word to family, friends and neighbors, we hope to bring in the highest single-day sales to the store, thereby producing a sizable donation check for our cause. Please tell everyone you know to shop for their groceries this week at the Whole Foods Market in La Jolla on Wednesday April 16th between 7am and 10:00pm. CAF will have a manned table set up all day, so stop by and say hello.
Coach's Corner from Mari Holden
I know that everyone is getting excited about training! I keep seeing more and more QMDC jerseys on the road. Last week we talked about getting our equipment ready, but this week I want to talk a bit about getting ourselves mentally ready for the 20-week training program that starts in June. There is no question that we will all be able to do this ride down the coast. The training will build up to our big test, but if you follow the training you will not only have fun and learn a lot, but you will be fit enough to accomplish the huge goal of riding from San Francisco to San Diego.
All of us come into this event from different backgrounds. Some people have raced triathlons, and bike races, and others are just learning how to clip into the pedals. Don’t worry or be intimidated! We are all pedaling for the same reason. We support Challenged Athletes. Being a part of the QMDC means a lot more than just getting fit and riding down the coast. It means being a part of a dynamic group of people who want to help others accomplish their dreams, and that is something really special.
My challenge is to try and come up with a training program that works for everyone. My main goal is to make sure that anyone who is willing to commit to the training will be able to finish the ride. My secondary goal is to share my love of cycling, and hope that you come to love this sport as much as I do.
We have chosen a group of ride leaders who are committed to making your experience the best possible one we can offer. At our first ride leader meeting last week, I laid out my goals, and my feeling that the most important thing to share is motivation and keeping it fun. If anytime along the way you have any questions or issues, please don’t hesitate to call. That includes the time before the actual training program starts. There will be training tips from the ride leaders and myself every week along the way, and hopefully you will get to know us all.
I encourage you all to start riding now. It will make it much easier if you have some base miles in your legs before the training starts. Just enjoy yourself. Feel the wind in your face, and enjoy being out on the road. If you have any health issues, make sure you contact your physician before you start getting into your training. We’re going to have a great time this year. I’ll see you on the road!
Whole Foods Community Support Day for Challenged Athletes Foundation
On Wednesday April 16th Whole Foods Market in La Jolla will be donating 5% of total sales to the Challenged Athletes Foundation.
With your help spreading the word to family, friends and neighbors, we hope to bring in the highest single-day sales to the store, thereby producing a sizable donation check for our cause. Please tell everyone you know to shop for their groceries this week at the Whole Foods Market in La Jolla on Wednesday April 16th between 7am and 10:00pm. CAF will have a manned table set up all day, so stop by and say hello.
Update 4/4
It is so exciting to see all the new registrations coming through on a weekly basis. We welcome our rider friends both old and new to the QMDC 2008 and we look forward to many wonderful times together. If there is anything we can do to support your fundraising or recruiting efforts please don't hesitate to contact us. That's what we are here for.
Coach's Corner from Mari Holden
The start of our training program is right around the corner and it is time to take a look at your equipment and make sure you are prepared for our enjoyable and challenging group rides.
First, I suggest a bike tune-up. Visit your favorite shop or mechanic for an inspection, adjustment and lube. They will be checking your frame, fork, tires and wheels as well as adjusting your gears, brakes and cables to help ensure a smooth ride. While you are there make sure you have stocked up on the supplies you need to change flat tires and make adjustments on the go.
You might also consider a bike fitting, especially if you are purchasing any new equipment for your bike such as pedals, bars or a saddle. Proper bike fit helps you maximize your power and remain injury free. (Trek San Diego will again offer a complimentary bike fit for each registered rider in the QMDC by appointment)
I look forward to meeting you all soon and I have a lot more great information to share in the coming weeks! Remember, if you are a new rider or just getting back on your bike after time off you should start building your mileage up slowly.
Inspiration
Last week I shared information on the military hereos who participated in the Oceanside 70.3 race. I know you will be inspired after reading the story of one of these very special athletes.
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/morgan-one-lucky-2010496-ironman-marine
Commemorative DVD
If you were a rider in the 2007 event we have mailed your commemorative DVD including photos and an incredible video. We hope you received your copy and are enjoying the memories of our days together, both before and after the fires in Southern California. Thank you again to those who participated last year.
Coach's Corner from Mari Holden
The start of our training program is right around the corner and it is time to take a look at your equipment and make sure you are prepared for our enjoyable and challenging group rides.
First, I suggest a bike tune-up. Visit your favorite shop or mechanic for an inspection, adjustment and lube. They will be checking your frame, fork, tires and wheels as well as adjusting your gears, brakes and cables to help ensure a smooth ride. While you are there make sure you have stocked up on the supplies you need to change flat tires and make adjustments on the go.
You might also consider a bike fitting, especially if you are purchasing any new equipment for your bike such as pedals, bars or a saddle. Proper bike fit helps you maximize your power and remain injury free. (Trek San Diego will again offer a complimentary bike fit for each registered rider in the QMDC by appointment)
I look forward to meeting you all soon and I have a lot more great information to share in the coming weeks! Remember, if you are a new rider or just getting back on your bike after time off you should start building your mileage up slowly.
Inspiration
Last week I shared information on the military hereos who participated in the Oceanside 70.3 race. I know you will be inspired after reading the story of one of these very special athletes.
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/morgan-one-lucky-2010496-ironman-marine
Commemorative DVD
If you were a rider in the 2007 event we have mailed your commemorative DVD including photos and an incredible video. We hope you received your copy and are enjoying the memories of our days together, both before and after the fires in Southern California. Thank you again to those who participated last year.
Update 3/28
We can’t believe that March is nearly over and the kick off of our 2008 training program is just 10 weeks away. Starting next Friday you will receive weekly email updates from our coach Mari Holden. She will share advice and recommendations as you begin to gear up for the amazing journey ahead.
We are proud to announce that we will again partner with The Sporting Club at Aventine to host our weekly spin classes as part of the QMDC training program in San Diego. Our private classes will be held on Wednesday mornings at 7:00am. The classes will be led by two of their experienced instructors and we look forward to some motivational mornings together. Remember these spin classes are reserved for our registered participants and will begin on June 11th.
Good luck to the many riders, past and present, who will be competing this weekend in the Half Ironman competition in Oceanside, CA. We wish you each a safe and satisfying race. We’ll be there to cheer you on! Be sure to keep your eyes open for Team Operation Rebound 70.3. Many dedicated fundraisers for Operation Rebound will be racing alongside inspirational military heroes who were permanently injured in Iraq or Afghanistan and are using sport to "get back in the game.” Together they are raising valuable funds for this important program of CAF that provides post-rehabilitative support and mentoring to American soldiers and veterans from these recent conflicts.
We have just completed the design of our 2008 Squadra training uniform and it looks fantastic! If you are planning to register and just haven’t taken the time to make your commitment, we encourage you to do so now, so that we can be sure to order your requested size. Go to www.mdc2008.kintera.org to register today.
We are proud to announce that we will again partner with The Sporting Club at Aventine to host our weekly spin classes as part of the QMDC training program in San Diego. Our private classes will be held on Wednesday mornings at 7:00am. The classes will be led by two of their experienced instructors and we look forward to some motivational mornings together. Remember these spin classes are reserved for our registered participants and will begin on June 11th.
Good luck to the many riders, past and present, who will be competing this weekend in the Half Ironman competition in Oceanside, CA. We wish you each a safe and satisfying race. We’ll be there to cheer you on! Be sure to keep your eyes open for Team Operation Rebound 70.3. Many dedicated fundraisers for Operation Rebound will be racing alongside inspirational military heroes who were permanently injured in Iraq or Afghanistan and are using sport to "get back in the game.” Together they are raising valuable funds for this important program of CAF that provides post-rehabilitative support and mentoring to American soldiers and veterans from these recent conflicts.
We have just completed the design of our 2008 Squadra training uniform and it looks fantastic! If you are planning to register and just haven’t taken the time to make your commitment, we encourage you to do so now, so that we can be sure to order your requested size. Go to www.mdc2008.kintera.org to register today.
Update 3/7
We have kicked off another exciting year of this life-changing event!
Thank you to our first registrants! These riders along with our sponsor commitments and challenged athletes bring our peloton to over 40 riders within just 3 weeks! We anticipate another sell out for 2008. Remember we had a wait list last year as our spots filled quickly so we encourage you to register now if you plan to join our journey down the coast. Follow this link to make your commitment to ride. www.mdc2008.kintera.org. Registration is limited to the first 100 people who sign up.
In a continuing effort to bring new and exciting changes to the QMDC we are planning a new stop-over city. This year we will enjoy an entertaining evening in Santa Monica just a short distance from the Santa Monica pier. We are currently working on entertainment and presentations for this evening and all others during the week on the road.
For the convenience of our riders we are making another change. This year we will take care of overnight bike storage so that you no longer have to store your bike in your hotel room. Your wheels will be ready and waiting each morning in our ride out area along with the refreshments and mechanical support you need to get rolling.
Thank you to our generous sponsors who have already committed their support again this year especially our title sponsor Qualcomm along with La Jolla Spa MD and Comerica Bank.
Thank you to our first registrants! These riders along with our sponsor commitments and challenged athletes bring our peloton to over 40 riders within just 3 weeks! We anticipate another sell out for 2008. Remember we had a wait list last year as our spots filled quickly so we encourage you to register now if you plan to join our journey down the coast. Follow this link to make your commitment to ride. www.mdc2008.kintera.org. Registration is limited to the first 100 people who sign up.
In a continuing effort to bring new and exciting changes to the QMDC we are planning a new stop-over city. This year we will enjoy an entertaining evening in Santa Monica just a short distance from the Santa Monica pier. We are currently working on entertainment and presentations for this evening and all others during the week on the road.
For the convenience of our riders we are making another change. This year we will take care of overnight bike storage so that you no longer have to store your bike in your hotel room. Your wheels will be ready and waiting each morning in our ride out area along with the refreshments and mechanical support you need to get rolling.
Thank you to our generous sponsors who have already committed their support again this year especially our title sponsor Qualcomm along with La Jolla Spa MD and Comerica Bank.
- Stay tuned for more information coming soon on:
An all new exciting and competitive contest for a QMDC rider spot presented by the Scott & BR Show and XX Sports Radio 105.7 FM and 1090 AM - New San Diego training routes and informative seminars organized by Coach Mari Holden and her team of dedicated ride leaders. The training program will kick off on June 8th
- Our first social event to be held in Maywith an invitation to all our registered riders It has been a pleasure seeing so many of you out on rides and witnessing the lasting friendships you have made through the QMDC. I look forward to many new friendships and sharing inspiring stories in the coming months.
Update 2/16
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR THE 2008 RIDE!
A Message from the 2008 Chairspersons
We have traveled many miles together and what an exciting, rewarding journey it has been. We have witnessed not only the continued success and growth of the ride, but the deep and meaningful impact it has had on the lives of challenged athletes served by CAF. Because of the difference our efforts have made and the lasting bonds of friendship we have forged with so many of you, we are proud to serve as the 2008 QMDC chairpersons.
Jeff Jacobs and Jeffrey Essakow, set the bar high through their exemplary leadership. With their continued support as honorary chairs we will further the tradition of Changing Gears and Changing Lives. In 2008, the QMDC will once again offer an unforgettable, unique and life-changing rider experience, but will also introduce other new and exciting elements – thanks to the valuable feedback we received from the rider survey.
Below are just a few of the enhancements planned for 2008:
We are delighted to welcome Mari Holden as our official QMDC coach. Mari is an Olympic silver medalist and world champion, a six-time national champion and former member of the T-Mobile Cycling Team. She remains active in the professional cycling community as a member of the USA Cycling Board of Directors and an athlete ambassador for the US Anti-Doping Agency. Mari will be updating the calendar for our 20-week training program, leading weekend training rides in San Diego, working with our group leaders to offer an even more supported training environment, and emailing weekly training tips. She also plans to present a series of informational seminars to help educate and train our riders.
As the dream of a CAF Headquarters Facility comes closer to fruition this year, the QMDC will again support this goal. In mid-March we will unveil plans for recognition opportunities within the new Headquarters for our riders, including special recognition for three-year participants.
Registration will be strictly limited to 100 riders on a first come, first served basis, so we can continue to offer the ultimate ride experience including professional mechanic and van support, route guides and more. Participation also includes hotel accommodations for seven nights, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, improved massage scheduling, and custom cycling apparel by Squadra for each day of the ride.
Watch for an even more exciting and competitive contest for a QMDC rider spot presented by the Scott & BR Show and XX Sports Radio 105.7 FM and 1090 AM.
T
hank you for your continued support of CAF and we hope you will be one of the first to sign up. We look forward to seeing you and riding together soon.
Deb Hoffman and Kayvon Agahnia
2008 Co-Chairs
A Message from the 2008 Chairspersons
We have traveled many miles together and what an exciting, rewarding journey it has been. We have witnessed not only the continued success and growth of the ride, but the deep and meaningful impact it has had on the lives of challenged athletes served by CAF. Because of the difference our efforts have made and the lasting bonds of friendship we have forged with so many of you, we are proud to serve as the 2008 QMDC chairpersons.
Jeff Jacobs and Jeffrey Essakow, set the bar high through their exemplary leadership. With their continued support as honorary chairs we will further the tradition of Changing Gears and Changing Lives. In 2008, the QMDC will once again offer an unforgettable, unique and life-changing rider experience, but will also introduce other new and exciting elements – thanks to the valuable feedback we received from the rider survey.
Below are just a few of the enhancements planned for 2008:
We are delighted to welcome Mari Holden as our official QMDC coach. Mari is an Olympic silver medalist and world champion, a six-time national champion and former member of the T-Mobile Cycling Team. She remains active in the professional cycling community as a member of the USA Cycling Board of Directors and an athlete ambassador for the US Anti-Doping Agency. Mari will be updating the calendar for our 20-week training program, leading weekend training rides in San Diego, working with our group leaders to offer an even more supported training environment, and emailing weekly training tips. She also plans to present a series of informational seminars to help educate and train our riders.
As the dream of a CAF Headquarters Facility comes closer to fruition this year, the QMDC will again support this goal. In mid-March we will unveil plans for recognition opportunities within the new Headquarters for our riders, including special recognition for three-year participants.
Registration will be strictly limited to 100 riders on a first come, first served basis, so we can continue to offer the ultimate ride experience including professional mechanic and van support, route guides and more. Participation also includes hotel accommodations for seven nights, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, improved massage scheduling, and custom cycling apparel by Squadra for each day of the ride.
Watch for an even more exciting and competitive contest for a QMDC rider spot presented by the Scott & BR Show and XX Sports Radio 105.7 FM and 1090 AM.
T
hank you for your continued support of CAF and we hope you will be one of the first to sign up. We look forward to seeing you and riding together soon.
Deb Hoffman and Kayvon Agahnia
2008 Co-Chairs
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