Update 4/18

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.