Monday, day 8

I talked to Dennis earlier today, and John is riding strong! He's actually increasing his pace and moving up through the ranks. He should be arriving at Bloomington, IN any minute in 9th place overall. His goal is to be the first recumbent rider to complete RAAM, and it looks like he will be successful.

On a sad note, there is an amazing guy named Beny Furer that had to withdraw 1854 miles into the race. This guy was racing with one arm. He withdrew because he lost use of his remaining hand and could not control the bike. Wow!

More pics and videos of JS in KS!!!

More pics and videos of JS in KS!!!

Sunday

I talk to Dennis briefly whenever he either has time or cell phone coverage, and he's hanging in there. They all are very, very tired. They are over half way there and most of the climbing is behind them... approaching Jefferson City, MO. I haven't heard from Dennis yet this morning, but hopefully the weather is a little warmer. Yesterday he said he had not been warm in 48 hours. I'm hoping to add a link to the Bacchetta blog. Dennis and Troy are reading the comments to John over the PA at night to keep him awake and to motivate him.

Now its cold!

After the blazing heat, the team suffered through the cold last night. John is keeping a pretty good pace, but they have a long night tonight. Anticipated lows in Chama, NM is 30 with gusting winds. Several guys have pulled out of the race due to accidents or medical reasons. John seems to be holding up ok, but there is still a very, very long race to go.

On the bright side, referrals came from China this week and we're up to Jan 20, 2006. We're getting closer...day by day.

John is back!

After a rough start, John is strong! He made it through the heat of the desert and Dennis said that he looks energized. Let the race begin!!!

It was a long night! John was really struggling through the heat and didn't have much reserve for the night. He took more breaks than scheduled, but he's still in the race! Recumbent riders are really challenged the first half of the race with the climbing, but really soar coming down the mountains and through the plains. Let's just hope John gets through the next few days!

Prescott, AZ

John came through at 22:39 EST. He had a nap, so I suspect he's energized and ready to roll!