[raam]Race Across America - Day 3 & 4

June 15, 2010 ‑ 8 p.m.

My shift just ended as the team enters the San Juan Mountains of Colo. Before my shift starts up again at 2 a.m., I want to explain the breakdown of how the Sir Steve Redgrave team works.

There are a total of eight riders, which are split up into two teams of four. The shifts for the first team start at 2 a.m. and 2 p.m., while the shifts for the second team start at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. One team rides for a six hour shift, while the other team sleeps (or at least tries to in a moving RV). Each team has a driving support team of four people: two in the LR4 and two in the minivan. One vehicle escorts a rider as they ride and the other vehicle carries the other riders and their bikes for each rider transition. The transitions happen often to maximize each rider's performance and must also happen fast and without error so that the riders can continue.

There are numerous other crew members, such as Justin the main crew chief, Marie the organizer, Serena the main chef (she's a wonder in the kitchen), and many others that work hard everyday to ensure that things run smoothly for the team. Without them, nothing would be possible!

The first thing the riders do when they're finished with their shift is to shower, sometimes outside of the RV or sometimes at a public shower. After a quick shower, the riders eat (and boy do they eat!) After re‑energizing with a meal, the riders catch up on some much needed sleep in one of the RVs. The crew eats at the same time as the riders and we sleep in which ever RV is not being occupied by the riders. The RVs then drive to the next team changing spot. While one team is showering, eating and sleeping, the other team is riding.

Speaking of sleeping, I think I'll catch some Z's before my next shift. That's all for now folks!

June 16, 2010 ‑ 10:20 p.m.

Currently in Missouri, I just got done with my shift.

Yesterday turned out to be quite the day, as the team was involved in a slight accident. All four riders were riding together across the half way mark of the race. As one rider crossed a series of railroad tracks, his front wheel caught a rail, which caused him to fall. Since all the riders were together, it caused a domino effect and down they all went!

Luckily no one was hurt and the riders continued riding as if nothing ever happened. They even seem faster now then they were before. The will power of this team amazes me everyday!

I'm happy to report that the Sir Steve Redgrave Team is currently fourth out of twelve teams, with one team dropping out. These guys are efficient, fast and competitive. It has been an honor to get to know them all and to participate in their incredible challenge.

It's hard to believe this incredible journey is almost over!