MS Charity Ride, Columbia, Mo Sep 6-7, 2008

Affton Truckers/Confidus Group had a great showing at the MS in Columbia, MO this year. The team name was made known and visible with over 45 cyclists on Saturday. There were other off the road noticeable things such as the "compound" and a free, somewhat public community service sound system (enough said about that). It was quite an impressive site to see the groups of riders wearing the team jerseys. The jerseys were easily recognizable, especially when the Kansas City chapter of the team went flying by most other riders.

Day one...anyone remember what we kind of all said before we started? Let's all stick together up until the Century turn off. Anyone remember that? Well, that lasted for about 3 to 4 miles...maybe even less. If you are a first time rider next year, don't believe it! I have heard that for the last 8 MS rides I have done and there is just too much excitement to hold some of us back, in spite of the odds of keeping such a fast pace and the wisdom in our years.

Day two, shortly after the beginning, we had an impressive train of riders following those KC cyclists through the hills of Columbia. There must have been 20 or more cyclists at one point drafting off those KC boys, including myself. It looked impressive! You could call us the "Wanna Be Tour of Missouri" group, less the expensive SAG teams and chase cars.

Had several Century riders on day one, two Century riders on day two, with one double century rider across both days. Many thanks to Mark T. for joining me on day two century and pulling me along and listening to my delirious state after about 65 miles when all I could think about was I have to make it up those last hills at mile mark 100.

See the team website for more pics from the ride http://www.ac-cycling.com/Site/Welcome.html

Unfortunately, regarding statistics, I don't have a good handle on that (i.e., team total miles ridden, how many beers, how much food, how many snacks, how many power bars, etc.). Need to keep better books on that next year.

Now, as we all go our ways for the season and mend our aches, pains and sore muscles from this year's ride, start thinking about next year. I have it from the rumor mill that some are already in the early stages of planning for an even more successful 2009 MS Ride.

Remember, the most important part of all this fun (and challenge) was the reason we were all there, and that was to help the fight against the devastating effects of Multiple Sclerosis. That is why we ride! Safe riding to all and see you next year in 2009.

Primary Sponsor Websites:

http://www.afftontrucking.com/asp/depot.asp

http://www.confidus.com/

Some sites to keep in your bookmarks

http://www.ac-cycling.com/Site/Welcome.html

http://bikemos.nationalmssociety.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Bike_MOS_homepage