Team Strong Heart

Jeff Magnuson Representing TEAM STRONG HEART at RAAM Challenge Race in MN (August 19-21, 2011)

2011-07-31T11:07:00.004-05:00

Jeff Magnuson is not new to TEAM STRONG HEART friends and supporters. Jeff was a huge supporter to TEAM STRONG HEART's mission for Camp Odayin. He was on the support crew for TEAM STRONG HEART 4-man RAAM team in 2009 and help the team win that year's very competitive 4-man team division. Jeff was a native Minnesotan, now living in Washington D.C. and still has relatives and many friends in MN, and one of his friends' daughters attended Camp Odayin. We are very grateful to have Jeff on board to represent TEAM STRONG HEART for the Camp Odayin mission to race in the upcoming RAAM Challenge in MN.

Team Strong Heart riding at Triple By-Pass July 9-10, 2011

2011-07-12T09:18:00.006-05:00

Team Strong Heart members and friends -- Holly, John, Melinda, Amy, and Rick & Ann (Holly & John's friends) rode Triple By-Pass between Avon and Evergreen on July 9-10, 2011. We also met with friends from RAAM and RAW among other 2500 riders. Proceeds of this rides benefit many charitable organizations. It was a wonderful experience.

NH Cyclist Returns to “World’s Toughest Bicycle Race”

2011-06-03T16:24:00.002-05:00

Salisbury, New Hampshire cyclist Brett Walker is returning to the prestigious and arduous Race Across America (RAAM). RAAM has been called “the world’s toughest bicycle race.” Created in 1982, it is the world’s longest-running ultra-endurance cycling competition. The 30th edition will begin on June 15, 2011 in Oceanside, California and finish over 3,000 miles away in Annapoliss, MD.

Brett is the former UMCA, North American 24-hour champion and is not new to the RAAM. In 2007, he finished 9th, crossing the country in 11 days 11 hours, even though a serious illness forced him to interrupt the race and spend a day in the hospital. In 2009, Brett also competed on the winning 4-man team, Team Strong Heart.

This year, Walker will be competing in the grueling solo division. Solo competitors ride nearly continuously in all weather conditions and terrain, typically sleeping only one-and-a-half to fours hours each night. Even so, very few finish within the allotted time of 12 days. Brett hopes to complete the race in less than 10 days.

In 2011, he starts the RAAM to raise money and awareness for the Special Olympics, in honor of his 14 year old son and Special Olympics athlete Noah, who was born with a brain injury and Camp Odayin, a residential camp for children with heart disease.

Brett has made the Special Olympics athletes' oath his own:"Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."

To follow Brett and support him on this race of a lifetime, please go to his blog: www.teamstrongheart.com and/or Facebook page: Team Walker RAAM 2011. You can also get live updates during the race at www.raceacrossamerica.org.

VOTE!

2011-04-03T11:16:00.006-05:00

Please go to RAAM Ohio and vote (for me?)

http://www.ohioraam.org/2011/poll.html

TEAMSTRONGHEART.COM

2011-03-29T00:36:00.004-05:00

Check out TEAM STRONG HEART's new official website at:

www.teamstrongheart.com

Take a look around to learn more about TSH, our mission, how to support TSH, and much more. Spread the word!

Also check out the TEAM STRONG HEART, RAAM 2011 page for more info on solo RAAM rider Brett Walker. You'll find an interview, photos, sponsors, and more.

Thank you for your continued support of TEAM STRONG HEART!

It’s Getting Close

2011-03-18T09:51:00.014-05:00

The start of the Race Across America (RAAM) is only 87 days away. Subtract time at the end for recovery and there are less than 60 training days left before the start of the race.

The next 60 days will be the most intense; all the work I have done over the past 6 months has been to prepare me for these 60 days. The remainder of my training focuses on long weekends, made up of back-to-back endurance rides. This weekend, I have ‎42 hours of training scheduled…three 14 hour days on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

As part of my RAAM effort, I am raising money for two great causes, Special Olympics New Hampshire and Camp Odayin, a residential camp for children with heart disease. Unfortunately, while the RAAM start line is very close, reaching my goal of raising $25,000 for these worthy causes and the race is still quite a long ways away.

SO...while I pedal away for 42 hours this weekend…I ask you: can you provide a tax-deductable contribution? Great or small, your efforts will radiate smiles and happiness in the hearts of these kids. This is their chance to enjoy the simple pleasures that have blessed our lives. Your help will make a difference!

You can donate by sending a tax-deductible check payable to “The Silent Sports Foundation” (EIN# 20-8971676) to my attention at 19 Franklin Rd, Salisbury, NH 03268, or by clicking on the Donate link to the right of this post.

(Please- send a link to this post, to any of your friends who might donate)

Thank you for your support.

Brett Walker

Follow me on Facebook during RAAM and my Training:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Team-Walker-RAAM-2011/143869265670225

Team Strong Heart on Facebook

2011-02-28T19:43:00.002-06:00

Team Strong Heart has a new official Facebook page:

Team Strong Heart

Please join us on Facebook for updates from TSH on events, fundraising, Brett Walker and the Race Across America, and more! Share the link with your friends and family and continue to spread the word about Team Strong Heart's mission.

Thank you!

Sebring 24 Update

2011-02-24T11:44:00.003-06:00

Brett completes one more lap.

An eagle eyed friend of mine (Warren Talbott) was looking over the results from the Sebring 24 and asked me why I stopped at 23h 38m. I told him that I rode until about 23h 50m and stopped as I didn't have enough time to complete another lap.

I contacted the time keeper and told them that I think they missed my final lap. I had been having trouble with my timing chip all night. They looked on the backup system and found that they had missed the last lap..

New official distance 480.9, this is a personal best and new age group record (beating my distance from 2008 by 1/2 mile)

Sebring 24 – Race Wrap-up

2011-02-22T11:15:00.009-06:00

Looking for a break from training in the ice and snow, I traveled to Florida this past weekend, to compete in the Sebring 24. I raced in the non-drafting, RAAM category. For those of you not familiar with this type of race, the objective is to cover as many miles as you can in 24 hours, the racer that covers the most miles wins.

I had a really good race and won the overall with 480.9 miles. I was hoping to get closer to 500 miles, but in total, I am happy with my results.

The weather was ideal, high temps during the day of around 80 and in the evening, lows in the 50s. Although, overnight there was a thick cloud of smoke that blanketed the course, from a wild underground peat fire that was burning nearby.

After completing the first 100.4 mile lap in 4 hours 25 min, I needed to let up a bit, as the temperature was starting to climb. I was slightly dehydrated and I could feel my core body temperature starting to rise, so I made a quick stop in the pit to have water poured on my head, and slowed my pace a little.

While I was in the pits, the rider who was in second place rode past. He was a 19 year old from Florida, Steven Perezluha, who as it turns out, is the nephew of the famed RAAM rider Danny Chew. I left the pit area, determined to chase him down, but he was moving and I knew if I matched his pace, I would be quickly overcome by the heat and my race would fall apart. So I settled into my own pace and continued to tick away the miles.

For the next seven hours I rode along in second place. Consistently churning away at the miles, while my deficit fluctuated between one min to as much as 26 min. Then after 12 hours and 12 min of racing, I retook the lead for the first time. Unfortunately, this didn’t last long, as Perezluha passed me again on the very next lap.

Over the next 5 hours, Perezluha built up his advantage to 13 min, but he quickly squandered his lead and after 17 hours of racing, I again rode past him. Unlike the last lead exchange, this one would not be short lived, as I would not give up first place for the remainder of the race.

I would like to thank my parents, Anne and Ed Walker for crewing for me at this race. A good crew is essential for doing well at these types of races and they did a fantastic job.

RAAM 2011 Training Update

2011-02-14T09:11:00.011-06:00

The weather in New Hampshire has been a challenge for the last couple months…lots and lots of snow and plenty of cold to go along with it. I haven’t let these challenges derail me from my training schedule, although I have been riding inside more than I care to.

I have completed base training and last weekend started a new phase of training, focusing on long consecutive rides. I completed three back-to-back 12-hour training days. These triple endurance days will be the backbone of my training from now until I peak in May. As I complete each cycle, the days will get longer, when in mid April I will complete 3 consecutive 18-hour days. Then in early May, I will take a week and ride my own mini-RAAM before recovering for the main event.

This week I am off to sunny (hopefully) Florida, to race in the Sebring 24. (http://bikesebring.org/) This is always a good race to test the progress of my training, and to get a change to ride for 24-hours without risking frostbite. I am hoping to have some updates/pictures posted during the race on my Face Book page, assuming I can teach my parents, who will be crewing for me, how to use my Droid. Here is a link to the page:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Team-Walker-RAAM-2011/143869265670225#!/pages/Team-Walker-RAAM-2011/143869265670225

If you’re not on Face Book, I believe you can still see my profile page you just won’t be able to comment.

Just a reminder, as part of this effort, I am raising money for two great causes, Special Olympics New Hampshire and Camp Odayin, a residential camp for children with heart disease. My goal is to raise $25,000 for these worthy causes and the race. Whatever you can give will be appreciated and will enrich the lives of these gifted athletes and kids.

You can donate by sending a tax-deductible check payable to “The Silent Sports Foundation” (EIN# 20-8971676) to my attention at 19 Franklin Rd, Salisbury, NH 03268, or click on the “Donate” link to the right of this post.

Thanks,
Brett Walker

Stronghearts at Climb For Cure event -- Climbing the IDS building, Feb. 5, 2011

2011-02-08T10:24:00.007-06:00

Congratulations to the climbers (Bernie K., Steve C., Rick D., Rick G., and Amy X.) who represented Team Strong Heart at the 30th annual Climb for Cure fundraising event organized by Cystic Fibrosis Foundation -- climbing the IDS building with professional firefighters, police, and EMS -- the tallest building in Minnesota (50-floor stairs with 1280 steps).

Bernie (Team Strong Heart RAAM rider 2007) climbed 10 times (12,800 steps!!!), 1280 steps more than last year; and new climbers, Steve (5x1280 steps), Rick (3x1280 steps), Rick (3x1280 steps), and Amy (2x1280 steps), joined other Fitness Challenge teams ascended the IDS building multiple times, while kicking off their 2012 Great Wall marathon training program.

GO STRONG HEARTS!!!

Also, check Team Strong Heart rider, BRETT WALKER's 2011 RAAM solo training progress on his Facebook (Fundraising for Camp Odayin and Special Olympics).

Face Book

2011-01-19T16:58:00.005-06:00

You can following my training and get race updates in Face Book.

Check out: Team Walker RAAM 2011 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Team-Walker-RAAM-2011/143869265670225?ref=sgm

Notorious B.I.T. (Brett in Training) Captured by State Police

2011-01-08T19:48:00.009-06:00

On a training ride this weekend I was captured by John Monaghan of the New Hampshire State Police. Here is his account of what happened, in an email he sent to Hammer Nutrition:

Dear Hammer-
I was out on patrol working my day job as a NH State Trooper when I came upon a rider on Route 118 in Dorchester, which is a bastard to climb no matter what time of year. On this day (today January 7th 2011) it was a blustery 21 degrees out with snow flurries. I snapped a few photos of this guy wearing his hammer top as he rode. I waited for him at the junction of RT 25. He stopped and told me he is Brett Walker from Salisbury NH. He was on a four hour ride in preparation for RAAM 2011. Wishing you all the best in 2011. Brett said it was alright if you wanted to use these by the way.
Yours ,
John Monaghan

John told me he was taking the pictures to send to Hammer, but I am pretty sure he was taking them to use in a commitment hearing, to have me made a ward of the state. :)

Thanks for the pictures John and the kind words on the side of the road. You really made my day.
Brett Walker

I Ride for Lasagna

2010-11-15T20:12:00.003-06:00

Training for RAAM is in full swing. I am following the same training plan that I used for solo RAAM in 2007. I just finished the first month of the eight month plan and it’s starting off well. My average speed was more than 1 mph faster than the same period in 2007.

On Sunday I had a 9 hour, 160 mile ride on my schedule, so I rode up to the White Mountains, climbed the Kank, then turned around and descended back to Lincoln. I then rode up Gonzo’s Pass.

With 6 hours completed, I descended Gonzo’s and was looking forward to heading south and home. The last 50 miles of this loop is usually pretty speedy, partially because of the terrain and partially because I can see the barn door. Unfortunately, as I turned south, I was met by a steady head wind. It was clear, that the last 50 miles of this ride, were not going to be easy miles.

I pushed into the wind and soon my mind turned to the leftover lasagna waiting for me at home. I could almost taste the spicy sausage my wife uses to give her lasagna that extra bite. As the wind pushed me back, I kept spinning my legs, thinking about that lasagna. Finally, I defeated the wind and made it home to my reward.

On Sunday I rode for lasagna, but in June I will ride for a bigger cause. I am racing RAAM, raising money for Camp Odayin, a residential camp for children with heart disease, and for Special Olympics, NH. Many of you know that our son Noah was born with a brain injury. We have experienced firsthand how Special Olympics helps to develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image. Their athletes' oath "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." carries a lesson we all can learn from.

So that is my first blog entry as I prepare for RAAM 2011. I hope you will come back and follow along as I prepare for another Race Across America.

Brett

BRETT WALKER - TEAM STRONG HEART 2011 RAAM SOLOIST

2010-11-10T21:10:00.002-06:00

Brett Walker -- TEAM STRONG HEART 2011 RAAM soloist

2010-11-02T13:13:00.002-05:00

2009 Team Strong Heart 4-men team member, Brett Walker (also a 2007 RAAM solo finisher) has decided to represent Team Strong Heart 2011 in the RAAM solo division to fundraise for Camp Odayin in MN as well as a local charity of his home state New Hempshire.

GO Brett!!!

The Stronghearts from MN and all over the country and world will root for you!!! Best wishes to your preparation.

Amy Xu
Team Strong Heart

Headwaters 100 2010

2010-09-28T08:10:00.000-05:00

Camp Odayin Guest Day visit (8/12/2010)

2010-08-17T07:27:00.005-05:00

Team Strong Heart members, families and supporters are invited to visit Camp Odayin (Crosslake, MN) at their annual Guest Day on August 12, 2010.

Camp Odayin (also known as "Camp Heart") has a summer resident camp hosted at Camp Knutson on Crosslake, MN. Kids with special hearts (as camp kids called it) from countries such as U.S., Canada, and Germany have made their summer home here. Summer water sports including swimming, playing volleyball and games, sliding, boating, etc. are a huge part of the camp afternoon activities.

At Camp Odayin, kids are well taken care of by camp counselors, a group of volunteers including medical doctors, nurses, and other medical specialists, and the Camp is equipped with donated medical supplies and with a helicopter launching pad on-site.

Members of the Team Strong Heart (TSH) including Jackie Torborg (2010), Bill Beckman (2008), Amy Xu (2010) and Yiping Xu (Amy's father visiting from China) attended the Camp this year. On behalf of Silent Sports Foundation and Team Strong Heart 2010 supporters, Amy presented a donation check, a children's book on Race Across America, and a Team Strong Heart t-shirt to Camp Odayin's President and CEO, Sara Meslow. Each of the camp guests also received a souvenir from Camp Odayin.

Team Strong Heart 2010-2011 will be in its 5th year in friendship with and carrying a charitable mission for Camp Odayin (Camp Heart's 10th anniversary in summer of 2011). Though Race Across America is as epic as it has been known for ("the toughest race in the world"), every Team Strong Heart knows that nothing can compare with what each Camp Heart kid has to go through in their daily lives. The kids appreciate all the fun time and memories in a very special summer week.

Thank you for your support and generosity.

Amy Xu
Team Strong Heart 2008 (team) and 2010 (solo)
612-991-4912
http://www.teamstrongheart.com/
http://www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com/

More TSH Press! from the Denver Post

2010-06-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

Monday June 28th. Denver Post: Fit Life: Coordinating a Team to Keep Cyclist Rolling

Thank you

2010-06-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome Home Amy/TSH & TSH Raffle Party. June 26, 2010

Amy Xu and Team Strong Heart would like give a very heartfelt THANK YOU to all of the people and sponsors who generously supported Team Strong Heart. This past Saturday (6/26) was the Welcome Home/TSH Raffle party hosted by Trailhead Cycling in Champlin, MN. Amy shared many stories of her RAAM experience. Thank you again to all and congratulations to all of the raffle winners!

Local Cable 12 Interviews Amy

2010-06-25T20:00:00.000-05:00

Local Cable 12 Interviews Amy, June 26, 2010

Video here

Welcome Home/TSH Raffle Drawing Party this Saturday (6/26)

2010-06-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Amy Xu, shortly after arriving back home. RAAM 2010

Trailhead Cycling will once again host a welcome home gathering for Team Strong Heart/Amy Xu this Saturday (June 26).

This will also be the time for the TSH Raffle drawing. Tickets are still available right up to drawing time. Show your support - buy a ticket for $5

Place: Trailhead Cycling - Hwy 169 & 114th Ave in Champlin.
Date: Saturday, June 26, 2010
Time: 6:00PM

Come welcome Amy home and hear all about her Solo RAAM experience!

Hope to see you there!

Amy Xu bows out with grace

2010-06-20T19:40:00.002-05:00

June 17, 2010 - Amy Xu - Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-17T16:00:00.001-05:00

3:00PM-CDT: After waking, Amy meet with her crew,. The data was laid out as to what they needed to accomplish in order to finish in Annapolis, Maryland before the final time cut-off. With very little time margin and a very large workload ahead, Amy decided that she WAS going to continue to race. At approximately 3:00pm she was once again on the road! Very quickly the reality of the previous 8+ days of effort hit Amy. Fatigue and complications from her previous efforts were just too much to continue riding safely. Just as quickly as Amy was on the bike, she was off again and her decision to continue was reversed.

I have since talked to Amy on the phone. Her spirits were very good, she feels good about her decision to stop. She wanted to express her appreciation to her crew, Team Strong Heart, the kids of Camp Odayin (and the kids of Mr. Beckman's class!) and all of the supporters and sponsors. Thank You from Amy, and thank you from Team Strong Heart for following along!

12:00PM-CDT: Amy and the Team Strong Heart crew have learned that they have NOT been DNF'd by RAAM and will be allowed to continue. However, she and her crew have worked very hard to make it to the Mississippi and everyone is very fatigued. She is currently sleeping and when she wakes the choice to go on or not is all hers. Stay tuned!

7:47AM-CDT: Amy has arrived at TS#34 at the Mississippi River in Missouri. 72F, thunderstorm, east wind at 6mph, dew point 70F. 2041 miles raced in 8 days, 17 hours, 47 minutes. INCREDIBLE!

Amy Xu - Still managing a smile! RAAM 2010

Amy Xu - Team Strong Heart within a few miles of the Mississippi. RAAM 2010

7:35AM-CDT: Report from Amy's crew - Within minutes Amy will be reaching the Mississippi and TS#35. She is currently riding in pouring rain and 71F. She has ridden through the night and is absolutely out of gas. She has pushed hard to reach the Mississippi because, although she exhausted, stopping any sooner would have meant the race was over for certain.

When they reach the Mississippi they will put Amy down for a sleep break. The crew has already put in an appeal for an extension for Amy to continue. RAAM reviews these appeals on a case-by-case basis. While Amy sleeps the crew will wait for a decision from RAAM officials. If it's thumbs-up they will wake her after a long sleep break and let her know she is still racing. If the appeal is not approved, they will let Amy sleep and Team Strong Heart's 2010 RAAM Solo Race will be over. Stayed tuned...

6:45AM-CDT: Still no word on TS#35 at the Mississippi. TSH will fall short of the predetermined time cut-off but it's going to be very close. Hopes are that by coming in so close to the cut-off that RAAM might grant an extension and allow Amy & Team Strong Heart to continue. Stand by to see what happens!

12:55AM-CDT: Amy passes through TS#34 in Washington, MO. 72F, calm, dew point 68F. Pressing on to the Mississippi!

June 16, 2010 - Amy Xu/Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-16T13:00:00.005-05:00

4:55PM-CDT: Amy has now reached TS#33 in Jefferson City. It's still hot & humid at 87F with a dew point of 62F. Winds are east at 7mph. Things have improved a bit since earlier. Amy's crew is has been icing her down and getting her feed. Her neck is now very sore and they are treating that as best they can. Everyone is still feeling optimistic about making it through the time cut-off at the Mississippi. Nobody is ready to quit!

Now for a flashback. This is from 2008, the last time Amy was at this spot on the course!

Amy, Tougher than HAIL! RAAM 2008

1:45PM-CDT: Crew update - Amy is still on her bike but it sounds like the many days of riding combined with hot, humid weather, nasty traffic, and the mounting time cut-off pressure is making it a very tough day for Amy and the Team Strong Heart Crew. They are currently under as much pressure as they have faced so far. The coming hours will tell if the time cut-off is achievable or not. Hang in there Amy!

12:12PM-CDT: Amy has reached TS#32 in Camdenton, MO. 82F, scattered clouds, 68F dew point, south winds at 5mph. Next is the Missouri state capitol Jefferson City TS#33.

6:54AM-CDT: Just saw a comment on FB from one of Amy's crew. "Leaving Weaubleau, Missouri and we are getting Amy to the Mississippi by 5am tomorrow!!" The Mississippi is the next time cut-off for the women soloists. Amy has to be there no later than 5AM-EDT (4AM-CDT). She's got 253 miles to go, it's going to be a challenging day!

4:30AM-CDT: Amy has gone through to TS#31 in Weaubleau, MO. She had a huge day yesterday (and into today) riding over 300 miles! Reports are she did 25 1/2 hours on the bike. At 4:30am in Weaubleau it was 68F with a 68F dew point, so it was still 100% humidity. Wind was calm.

June 15, 2010 - Amy Xu - Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-15T23:59:00.001-05:00

11:59PM-CDT: Thank you everyone for your kind comments on this blog and the TSH Facebook page. Amy is seeing all of your comments and it's really helping her stay motivated! Keep the encouragement coming as she chases the next time cut-off at the Mississippi! Together we can help push her through!! GO Amy!

9:10PM-CDT: The last Time Station in Kansas has been reached. Fort Scott, TS#30! 77F, clear & calm and even more humid yet with a 77F dew point! YUK! 100% humidity!! On to Missouri next, looking for the Mississippi!

8:45PM-CDT: Some photos just came in!

Tim, Amy, & Sally. RAAM 2010

Amy existing Kansas. RAAM 2010

Official TSH Feeding Device

Amy Xu Still East-bound! RAAM 2010

4:36PM-CDT: Amy has reached TS#29 in Yates Center, KS. It was 82F, winds WSW winds at 10mph. The dew point is still a sticky 67F. At least shes got a bit of a tail-wind!

11:54AM-CDT: Amy has made it through TS#28 in El Dorado, KS. El Dorado was 80F, mostly cloudy, with WNW winds at 5mph. The humidity is also starting to climb. The current dew point was a tropical 67F. Not a lot of Kansas left and Amy has also crossed the half-way point. 1600 miles raced so far!

9:17AM-CDT: Amy has passed through TS#27 in Maize, KS. 73F, mostly cloudy, SW winds at 9mph. Michelle checked in this morning, To talk about yesterday, Amy had a big day riding 270 miles! She finished the day very tired. Amy has even started to experience some hallucinations that RAAM soloists report. After a sleep break, food , and therapeutic care she is back on the road and doing ok. The plan today is to get out of Kansas and into Missouri!

7:00AM-CDT: No reports yet, but Amy should be on the road to TS#27 at Maize, KS. During this leg Amy will pass the 1/2 way mark! She is know entering an area that has seen some flooding. RAAM organizers could be changing the route, we'll see what the day brings. Conditions in the area this morning: 64F, mostly cloudy, and WSW winds at 5mph.

June 14, 2010 - Amy Xu - Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-14T23:00:00.000-05:00

10:43PM-CDT: Amy has made it to Pratt, KS and TS#26. Conditions at the time: 69F, mostly cloudy with some rain in the area, and NE winds at 5mph. I'm not certain, but I think this is were Amy will take another sleep break.

8:24PM-CDT: Amy has reached TS#25 in Greensburg, KS. Conditions at the time: 71F, mostly cloudy, wind north at 7mph. Next is TS#26 in Pratt, KS. Unfortunately, they'll probably miss the free chow at Starvin Marvin's BBQ.

3:01PM-CDT: Amy is now through TS#24 in Montezuma, KS. Weather report is 72F, clear, and ENE winds at 6mph. Next is TS#25 in Greensburg, KS

Amy Xu just outside Montezuma, KS. RAAM 2010

2:00PM-CDT: A few more photo's courtesy of Amy's crew. Report is she is about an hour away from TS#24 at Montezuma, KS. It is 72F and she working against a cross/head wind out of the NE.

Dennis giving Amy a salute with wheat. RAAM 2010

Tim cheering Amy on as she pedals through Kansas. RAAM 2010

Flowers for Amy. RAAM 2010

12:00PM-CDT: Another photo update! Thanks Sally!

Amy got hot food 7 miles out of Ulysses, she had a championship breakfast, including raman noodle, hot chocolate, pancake and sausage. She took 20mins catnap. David adjusted her seat, the seat Michelle and David made for her took her pain away. She likes it very much. Will get a pic of the seat later. She looks great! -Sally

10:26AM-CDT: Amy has now reached TS#23 in Ulysses, KS. She is over 1300 miles into the race! Conditions in Ulysses at the time was 62F with scattered clouds and NNW winds at 16mph.

9:20AM-CDT: Photo update!

Amy Entering Kansas! RAAM 2010

6:04AM-CDT: Amy has now passed through TS#22 in Walsh, CO. This is the last Time Station in Colorado! Amy is now heading to the plains of Kansas! Conditions in Walsh were 46F and calm.

12:03AM-CDT: Amy has passed through TS#21 in Kim, CO. The temp was 55F with a north wind at 13mph.

June 13, 2010 - Amy Xu - Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-13T16:00:00.002-05:00

7:00PM-CDT: Photo update.. this just in. Thanks to crew member Sally!

50 miles to Kim, fighting against strong wind. Amy Xu/RAAM 2010

4:30PM-CDT: Here's a profile of the next leg TS#20 to TS#21 in Kim, CO 71 miles away (click to enlarge).

4:00PM-CDT: Amy has reached TS#20 in Trinidad, CO. Reports are the last big climb she tackled was very difficult. Amy's crew wanted all of you to know what helped Amy manage the climb. Using a megaphone they read out loud ALL of the comments from this blog and the text messages that have been coming in. That is what sparked Amy to keep going!! So please, keep the well wishes and comments coming! Amy is hearing them all. And Thank You!

Conditions in Trinidad when Amy pulled in were 69F with partly cloudy skies and variable winds at 7mph. The goal for the balance of the day is to reach Kansas. But first there's still 150miles of Colorado left!

Amy climbing outside Trinidad, CO RAAM 2010

12:00-CDT: A special THANK YOU! goes out to TSH sponsor Trailhead Cycling, in Champlin, MN. After discovering that really only one of Amy's saddles was comfortable during ultra-long efforts her crew made a call to Trailhead. Pam & Larry (TH owner's) promptly located the type of saddle Amy needed and shipped it overnight. Amy's crew will pick up the saddle's when they arrive at the next Time Station in Trinidad, CO.

TSH says THANK YOU Trailhead Cycling for your support!!

8:30AM-CDT: Amy is back on the road! Here is a photo update that just arrived.

Amy departing for TS#20 in Trinidad, CO 6-13-10 RAAM 2010

Amy bound for Trinidad, CO. Cloudy skies and wet roads ahead RAAM 2010

4:03AM-CDT: Amy has now reached TS#19 in La Veta, CO. It was 54F with some rain and winds out of the NNW at 10mph. Amy was scheduled for a sleep break in La Veta before contiuing on to TS#20 in Trinidad, CO.

June 12, 2010 - Amy Xu/Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-12T15:00:00.003-05:00

11:30PM-CDT: In case anyone is wondering, Amy is still on the road and headed for TS#19 at La Veta, CO. In spite of a hard day, it is RAAM the competitors push on!. Tentatively the next sleep break for Amy is scheduled in La Veta, CO. (TS#19). Her race plan is continuously in flux so you never know,. Thus far, she has proved she has been up for it.. That is amazing. GO AMY!

7:45PM-CDT: Amy has reached Time Station #18 at Alamosa, CO!! And bigger yet she has surpassed the 1000 miles mark! That is incredible!! Conditions in Alamosa were 69F with south winds at 17mph. I'm not sure if that is accurate because Amy's crew reported earlier that they were up against a stiff headwind. It has been a tough 24 hours for Amy and she has been forced to prove her mettle. Let me be the first to say that I am totally in AWE! What Amy has done so far is completely beyond comprehension!

Amy tackling more climbing RAAM 2010

2:50PM-CDT: Amy has cleared Wolf Creek Pass! That is BIG! She has now reached TS#17 at South Fork, CO. Reports are the cresting the pass was very emotional, there were tears and cheers, clapping and picture taking! The conditions as she road into South Fork were 68F with Sw winds at 10mph. As you can tell from the picture, conditions on the pass as she went over were a bit cooler.

Amy about to crest Wolf Creek Pass. RAAM 2010

Arrival at TS#17 in South Fork, CO. RAAM 2010

11:30AM-CDT: Just checked in with the crew that is currently in the RV. It sounds like they are dealing with a few challenges today. It was cold overnight with temps going down to 39F. They are having a problem with one of the tires on the van that is following Amy. Also, Amy is starting to struggle with saddle issues and a sore bottom. No amount of training can prepare you for how your body will react to so many hours on the bike. These are the type of challenges that RAAM throws at you that are so hard to prepare for. Amy does have a top-notch crew and they will do their best to resolve these obstacles.

8:33AM-CDT: Amy has passed through TS#16 at Pagosa Springs, CO. Temps were 48F and calm when she got there. Reports have not come in yet but I think the Amy & crew encountered cold temps and rain overnight. Crewing for Amy overnight was Michelle, Sally, and David.

TSH Crew members: Sally, Michelle, & David. RAAM 2010

Wolf Creek Pass now lies ahead of Amy as she goes from Pagosa Springs to South Fork, CO. The forecast in the area is not in the riders favor either. South Fork is forecasting scattered rain & isolated thunderstorms, temps in the 50F's, and 10-20mph SE winds with gusts to 45mph. It is going to be a tough leg for Amy. Send positive thoughts her way! Hang in there Amy!

June 11, 2010 - Amy Xu/Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-11T23:50:00.000-05:00

11:50-CDT: Amy is on the move once again! With rain still in the area and 59F and north winds at 7mph and and her Team Strong Heart crew are on their way to the next time station (#16) in Pagosa Springs, CO. That is followed by TS#17 in South Fork, CO. The leg between Pagosa Springs and South Fork features Wolf Creek Pass. Wolf Creek Pass is the highest point of the race at 10,857 feet. The climb to the pass includes 8 miles at a 7% grade. That is going to be a bugger and it comes after the racers already have 947 miles on their legs!!

7:38PM-CDT: Amy has reached Time Station #15 in Durango, CO AND a first big milestone! Durango was the first time cut-off point for the women soloists. So did she make it?? Heck yeah!! only with about 10 hours to spare!! Way to go Amy! we are all very proud of you!! Michelle checked in shortly before Amy's arrival in Durango. She said they had a hotel with a real bed and shower, balloons, and Thai food waiting for Amy when she got there. A mini-celebration before she goes back out on the road!

As of TS#15 in Durango Amy has been racing for 3 days, 5 hours and has ridden 858 miles!

There is a little weather action going on in the area too. As Amy pulled into Durango the temp was 63F, mostly cloudy with isolated rain & thunderstorms, and winds WNW at 12mph.

3:44PM-CDT: Cortez, CO TS#14, another Time Station down! Amy is on her way to Durango and another well deserved rest stop.

10:15AM-CDT: Amy has just passed through Time Station #13 in Montezuma Creek, Utah. The temp at the time was 56F, mostly cloudy, with a NNE wind at 7mph. The next Time Station is #14 in Cortez, Colorado another 50 miles down the road. Crewing for Amy right now is Sandy, Emerald, & Doug. They'll be with Amy until Durango, CO TS#15.

TSH Crew Members: Emerald, Sandy, & Doug. RAAM 2010

TSH Co Crew-chiefs Michelle Pearl & Sandy Roman. RAAM 2010

7:12AM-CDT: Word just came in via text-message that Amy is on the road! Colorado bound!

Amy on the Yarnell Climb Wed. 6/9/10

3:55AM-CDT: Amy is into Utah now and has reached TS#12 in Mexican Hat, UT. It is 59F with a east wind at 5mph. Amy has now raced a total of 725 since the race started last Tuesday at 2PM-CDT. That means she has ridden 725 miles in 86 hours!

It sounds like Amy and crew have stopped in Mexican Hat for a break before continuing on. They are looking to reach Colorado.

As Amy races on into the daylight hours she will see cooler temps in the 60F's and winds that continue to be mostly out of the west.

12:59AM-CDT: Time Station #11 at Kayenta, AZ has been reach, TS#11 is the last time station in Arizona! Amy will be in Utah soon. The weather in Kayenta as Amy rode through was 57F and calm.

June 10, 2010 - Amy Xu/Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-10T21:45:00.007-05:00

Off into the twilight, RAAM 2010

11:00PM-CDT: Just got a text-message update from Amy's current road crew. They reported she is about 35 miles from Kayante, AZ (TS#11). They said she is flying riding along at about 17mph! Amy will see temps down into the 50F's as she rides into Utah overnight. Winds continue to be from the SW at 10-15mph. Guests are reported up to 30mph.

8:36PM-CDT: Amy has passed through TS#10 at Tuba City, AZ. At the time the temp was 71F with WSW winds at 13mph. Less than 100 miles of Arizona left, then she crosses into Utah. She will race through about 100 miles of Utah before crossing into Colorado.

All the riders will be happy to leave Arizona. According to RAAM the section between Cottonwood, AZ (TS#8) to Flagstaff, AZ (TS#9) averages more than 128 feet of climbing per mile. They say it is the toughest section west of the Mississippi River! That's behind you Amy! GOOD WORK!

Amy leaving Flagstaff for another shift on the bike.

4:30PM-CDT: After a good sleep Amy is back on the road! Reports are she is still feeling good. The temp was 61F wind a south wind at 10mph as she left Flagstaff

12:18PM-CDT: Amy has reached Flagstaff, AZ TS#9!! Skies are clear, the temp is 64F, and the wind is out of the SW at 22mph. Report is that Amy is very tired. Her last effort lasted approximately 24 hours! She is now scheduled for a sleep rest. During that time she will eat a meal (pancakes!), receive message therapy and fluids via IV if required (very likely), and SLEEP!!. Also, during this time her crew will analyse her current situation and formulate a plan for the next step. Amy has a very qualified support crew and she will be in the best care.

Sally in the Navigator seat. RAAM 2010

9:00AM-CDT: Amy's current support crew just checked in via text-message and reported that they had just passed through the city of Sedona, AZ. The leg from Sedona to TS#9 in Flagstaff is about 30 miles, it has a substantial amount of climbing with about 2500 feet of gain. This will be challenging for Amy as she has been up and riding for the past 9+ hours. By the time she reaches Flagstaff she will have been on the bike for about 12 hours, ridden over 250 miles, and climbed over 8600 feet!!

6:35AM-CDT: TS#8 in Cottonwood, AZ has been reached. The temp was 67F with SSE winds at 6mph. Next up is the 53 mile trip to Flagstaff and TS#9. Amy is heading to another scheduled rest stop and she'll have earned when she gets there. There is nearly 3500 feet of climbing to get to Flagstaff! The crew reports she is tired but hanging in there. GO AMY!

Meanwhile, the lead male soloists, who started 24 hours after the women, have already passed TS#5 in Salome, AZ. Jure Robic, 4-time RAAM Champion is in the lead.

1:47AM-CDT: Amy passed through Time Station #7 in Prescott, AZ. Conditions at the time was 70F with south winds at 6mph.

Some Reading for You While Amy Sleeps

2010-06-10T14:00:00.002-05:00

Here's an article by East County Magazine out of the San Diego area. Click here!

RAAM Daily Video Upate - June 9, 2010

2010-06-10T06:00:00.001-05:00

June 9, 2010 - Amy Xu/Team Strong Heart RAAM Update

2010-06-09T21:00:00.004-05:00

Crew Chief Update: Both of Amy Crew Chiefs, Michelle and Sandy reported in tonight. They said that Amy is feeling great (bottom is a little sore) and that they are actually ahead of their plan projections which allowed for a little more rest for Amy. As of TS#6 in Congress, Amy has ridden 391 miles and is 30+ hours into the race. She has taken one scheduled sleep stop that lasted 4 1/2 hours!

Amy on the Yarnel Grade outside Congress, AZ in 2008

8:20PM-CDT: Amy reached Congress, AZ and TS#6. Temp 82F, winds S 9mph. Michelle, one of Amy's two crew chiefs, reported that Amy was doing so well that they were going to take a short break in Congress just to set up for the next big climb (Yarnel grade) that happens just outside Congress. They were also going to switch crews. TS#7 in Cottonwood, AZ is next at 41 miles and TS#8 in Flagstaff, AZ is another 50 miles beyond that.

Pool Time in Congress, AZ

Michelle, Sally, Amy, & David

4:46PM-CDT: Amy passed through TS#5 in Salome, AZ. Temp 102F, winds South 10mph.

Hot, Hot, Hot!

12:00PM-CDT: Just got word that after a scheduled rest Amy & crew are back on the road! Report is she is feeling GREAT!

As stated earlier Amy will spend all of today riding in Arizona. She will see temps climbing towards 100F today. When she left Parker, AZ the temp was already 90F with SSE winds at 10mph. She is also faced with a day of climbing, over the next three time stations she will climb in excess of 5400 vertical feet!!

RAAM Daily Video Upate - June 8, 2010

2010-06-09T11:00:00.002-05:00

Time Station #4 - Parker, Arizona

2010-06-09T07:45:00.001-05:00

Crew member Emerald Simmons reports on FB: "In Arizona! Amy went straight through the night stopping in Parker for a 4 hour rest."

Amy reached TS#4 in Parker, AZ at about 7:20AM CDT. She has now raced over 280 miles ridding that distance in just over 17 hours!!

Conditions in Parker this morning: 76F, clear, SSW winds at 10mph. Amy will be down for a rest now until about noon. When she starts ridding again she'll see temps up around 100F.

Time Station #3 - Blythe, California

2010-06-09T07:00:00.002-05:00

photo: RAAM 2010

Amy passed through TS#4 in Blythe, CA at about 4AM CDT this morning. As of TS#4 Amy has ridden 230+ miles and has been going steady for more than 14 hours! The temperature in Blythe was 77F with wind out of the south at 8mph.

The forecast for today as the racers cross into Arizona will be warm with temps into the 90's and mostly south winds.

RAAM 2010 Sights & Sounds Video

2010-06-08T23:30:00.003-05:00

Time Station #2 - Brawley, California

2010-06-08T22:53:00.002-05:00

photo: RAAM 2010

I guess my time zone calculations were a little off, doh! Amy has just passed through TS#2 (10:53 CDT) at Brawley, CA . She has be riding for nearly 11 hours and has already covered 142 miles. Conditions in Brawley are 91F with a west wind at 20mph. The riders should like that wind!

Next is TS#3 at Blythe, California... 89 miles down the road.

Time Station #1 - Lake Henshaw

2010-06-08T18:45:00.002-05:00

photo: RAAM 2010

At 5:55 (CST) Amy passed through Time Station #1 in Lake Henshaw, California. Weather conditions at the time was about 77F with a west wind at 10mph. She's getting a nice little push!

The next Time Station is #2 in Brawley, CA in another 88 miles. She should reach Brawley sometime after midnight.

Amy Xu - Team Strong Heart Underway at RAAM!

2010-06-08T14:00:00.035-05:00

At 2PM (CST) Team Strong Heart's Amy Xu started in the 2010 RAAM Solo Women's Division. Along the 3005 mile non-stop race course are 55 time stations. Between reports from her TSH crew and tracking the results on the RAAM website we will update her current status and progress here at teamstrongheart.com with as real-time information as possible. Check back often!

2010 RAAM Solo Women & Men 60+ Start

On behave of Amy and Team Strong Heart, I would like to thank all of you for supporting Amy and Team Strong Heart's mission for Camp Odayin.

Next up for Amy is Time Station #1 at Lake Henshaw, California. The distance to Lake Henshaw is about 54 miles with an elevation gain in excess of 2750 feet. The RAAM course gets serious right away!

The temperature at race time in Oceanside was 68F with SW winds at 6mph.

Amy Starts the 2010 RAAM Today!

2010-06-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

2010 Team Strong Heart

L2R: Dennis, Sandy, Jackie, Sally, Tim, Amy, Emerald, Doug, Michelle, David

Today is the day! At 12PM Pacific time (2PM CDT) Amy Xu will start in the 2010 Race Across America Solo Division. Amy is one of only 5 women racing in the solo division this year.

Best wishes to Amy and crew for a safe and successful race. Go AMY!

Be sure to check back for updates as the race gets underway!

Tour de Mission hill ride -- June 1, 2010

2010-06-02T09:28:00.010-05:00

By 9:20pm, the backyard post Tour de Mission hill party was "terminated"; it was not that we were too loud for the neighbors, or music got bored -- a care call came in that I need to sleep!!! before taking off today (June 2) for the sleepless RAAM -- I truly forgot...we were laughing so hard, we were so loud, we were like a bunch of camping kids talking under the skys about how our paths crossed on bikes -- That is the essence of Tour de Mission.

While enjoying your ride, find The Bike Writers' -- "ENJOY THE RIDE -- Following a Natural Cycle Through Life" -- a life reflection of a cyclist, his friends, and families -- to be published soon.

Your friend, amy xu

Amy Xu/Team Strong Heart in the News!

2010-05-28T09:00:00.001-05:00

Check out this article printed today (5/28/10) in the St. Paul Pioneer Press!

Plymouth's Amy Xu will attempt to cycle nearly nonstop for 300 hours coast to coast

Newest 2010 Crew member (#15) -- Jay Thompson, Team Strong Heart 2008 rider

2010-05-26T10:15:00.008-05:00

Welcome on board, Jay (from right -- TEAM STRONG HEART 4-person team -- Jay, Amy, John, Melinda, taken in Oceanside 2008 RAAM).

Jay came on board this week to crew us from MN to CO and is the designated reporter for TSH website/facebook for race progress. Thank you.

Please join me to thank the following individuals for volunteering their time in helping the Team Strong Heart mission in 2010 Race Across America.

Sandy Roman (MN) - crew chief

Michelle Pearl (CO) -- crew chief

Minghong (Sally) Wang (NH)

Doug Donelson (CO)

Emerald Simmons (CO)

David Detmar (TX)

Tim Sandy (CA)

Dennis Richardson (CA)

Jacquelyn Torborg (MN)

Richard (Dick) Roman (MN)

Dale Nordick (MN)

Susan Just (MN)

Dave Waltz (MN)

Qiuwen (Janet) He (NH)

Jay Thompson (MN)

Amy

Memorable Evening Ride in MN -- May 20, 2010

2010-05-21T10:50:00.004-05:00

Team Strong Hearts from local cycling groups came out for a memorable evening ride. (Courtesy of Quang Vo and Larry Sayler).

See other photos and event report on http://www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com/

Team Strong Heart mission event in Boulder CO - May 16-17, 2010

2010-05-17T09:47:00.019-05:00

As Team Strong Heart crew and rider are preparing its mission close to its final stage before heading to the race start (Race Across America 2010), co-crew chief, Michelle Pearl, organized a mission fundraising event last weekend -- this time, in the Heart of the Race Across America -- its headquarter -- in Boulder, CO.

Michelle gathered all the donated items from her friends and local CO businesses (bike shops, band, restaurants, hotels, spas, bakeries, etc. etc.), as well as Team Storng Heart sponsors from MN, and raised $2,100+ on Sat. night. RAAM president and CEO attended the event, pumped up our team and supporters, and praised all the efforts we have done for Camp Odayin charity mission. On behalf of Team Strong Heart, I invited the RAAM organizer to visit Minnesota this fall and give us a recap of RAAM 2010 and RAAM history.

Counting down 22 days to start, Team Strong Heart has many tasks ahead before the race start. As Eric Kenny, the Team Strong Heart 4th year coach advises -- obstacles usually happen when you take your eyes off from the goal -- So we stay focused.

Amy Xu (Dorsey & Whitney, partner)
Team Strong Heart 2008 (team) and 2010 (solo)
612-991-4912
http://www.teamstrongheart.com/
http://www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com/

Press Release in California and Colorado -- May 11, 2010

2010-05-11T15:47:00.009-05:00

From Michelle Pearl (co-crew chief),

"I would imagine that most of us have ridden a bike at some point in our lives. The first time you learned how to pedal, and keep your balance was such a euphoric moment. Then maybe you did your first 10 mile ride whether it be to work or with your family, or something bigger like a weekend club ride preparing for a 100 mile century or triathlon. At some point, most of us have experienced some perception of what it means to ride your bike, but can you just imagine for one second, riding your bike for 20 hours, then sleeping for 3 hours, and then getting up and doing it again for 13 days?

On June 8th, 2010 there will be a very select group of athletes doing just this feat, in the Race Across America (RAAM). This is the 29th year that the RAAM (which is considered the hardest international endurance event) will take place. Athletes will leave from Oceanside, CA traveling 3,000 miles to Annapolis, Md, and are given 10-13 days to complete it, depending on their category. Each year several teams participate in this incredible race that has no prize money. Aside from the personal challenge this race poses to each athlete, it is also one of the largest fundraising opportunities for hundreds on different charities.

This year, Team Strong Heart will be competing in the RAAM for the fourth year in a row. The team was developed in 2007 by Bernie Karferlein, after attending a fundraiser for Camp Odayin, a camp in Stillwater, MN for kids with congenital heart disease. He was so inspired, that he decided to use his love of cycling as a platform to raise money for the camp, and participate in the RAAM. In 2007 Team Strong Heart raced a 4-person all male team, in 2008 they had a 4-person mixed team, along with a solo male racer, then in 2009 a 4-person all male team that took first place, and now in 2010, Amy Xu the first Asian American female to race in the RAAM, will be competing in the SOLO division.

Team Strong Heart is based out the Twin Cities, Minnesota USA, and functions under the Silent Sports Foundation. Their mission is to raise awareness and funds for Camp Odayin. This camp provides a very special experience for kids all over the country with congenital heart disease, who's medical fragility limits their abilities to normally participate in such opportunities. The camp has an all volunteer staff including a full time pediatric cardiologist and nurse. They have high tech medical equipment available at all times for any emergency. The families who have already had to manage large medical bills, only have to pay a small administration fee, and otherwise the campers attend with funds given by donation.

Although Amy is the SOLO racer representing Team Strong Heart, this mission is truly a team effort and can not be completed without the assistance of an efficient support crew. This year's crew is made up of 14 people. Each person has a vital job. Amongst those jobs includes a driver, navigator, feeder, bike mechanic, physical therapist, massage therapist, and nurse. This year's crew is an eclectic mix of incredible men and woman from all over the country that have come together, donating weeks out of their lives as volunteers to achieve the same goal.

Months, days, and hours are dedicated to the preparation, fundraising, training, and strategizing for the Race Across America. On June 8, 2010 Team Strong Heart will begin their mission on the start line, at the pier in Oceanside. You can track their mission and race progress, just as the kids at Camp Odayin and supporters will, across the country all the way to the finish line in Annapolis.

If you would like to learn more about Team Strong Heart, and their mission, or make a donation, please go to http://www.teamstrongheart.com/

You can learn more about the race, and follow the daily statistics at http://www.raceacrossamerica.org/

To learn more about Camp Odayin, please go to http://www.campodayin.com/

TEAM STRONG HEART 2010 crew announcement - May 7, 2010

2010-05-11T13:51:00.005-05:00

I'm pleased to announce that Team Strong Heart 2010 includes total 14 crew members:

Sandy Roman (MN)
Michelle Pearl (CO)
Minghong (Sally) Wang (NH)
Doug Donelson (CO)
Emerald Simmons (CO)
David Detmar (TX)
Tim Sandy (CA)
Dennis Richardson (CA)
Jacquelyn Torborg (MN)
Richard (Dick) Roman (MN)
Dale Nordick (MN)
Susan Just (MN)
Dave Waltz (MN)
Qiuwen (Janet) He (NH)

On behalf of Silent Sports Foundation and Team Strong Heart 2010 RAAM, first of all, I want to thank you all for being a part of the Team Strong Heart 2010 mission to help Camp Odayin charitable cause in RAAM 2010. I welcome you on board. Also, I want to thank our co-crew chiefs, Sandy Roman and Michelle Pearl, for their hard work to get us all together in the last few months. Without them, this will not happen. I'm very grateful to all of you and look forward to being a part of this team and your rider. We come from many different parts of the country with all different background, yet as a whole, we are going for a common mission. I'm very proud of us. Moving forward, no matter what happens on this journey, we are the Team Strong Heart 2010, and we are a part of the Greater Team Strong Heart family now.

One of our main goals is to help bring awareness of cardiovascular diseases that Camp Odayin kids suffering in their daily lives. On our crew, we have a member whose family had experienced such devastated diseases, and we also have crew members who themselves are the survivals of other potentially life-threatening diseases. Currently, we are blessed with good health and great energy.

In regards to the race event, our #1 goal is to make this crossing safe and a great experience for all of us. I encourage everyone to sit back for a moment to visualize our journey ahead and say a prayer for all of us as well as the loved ones back home, and thank our families and friends who support us in this mission. We'll have hundreds of thousands of folks back home, across the country and beyond, to support us. I'm not afraid of the challenges ahead even though the roads ahead are very treacherous and somewhat dangerous. Please take care of yourself and be vigilant to all dangers around us and help each other. Together, we CAN do this.

(Above photo is courtesy of Mellow Johnny bike museum, Austin, TX)

Amy Xu (Dorsey & Whitney, partner)
Team Strong Heart 2008 (team) and 2010 (solo)
612-991-4912
http://www.teamstrongheart.com/
http://www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com/

RAAM Simulation Ride from Oceanside CA to Blythe CA -- April 16-17, 2010

2010-04-19T14:14:00.003-05:00

Reports from Team Strong Heart co-crew chief, Michelle Pearl -- see www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com

Letters from Camp Odayin -- April 2010

2010-04-19T14:10:00.006-05:00

"It's about the mission"-- by Erin Lewison, a 7th grader student of Maple Grove Junior High and winner of Team Strong Heart mission contest

2010-03-22T23:10:00.004-05:00

Details http://www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com/

"INVICTUS" -- to those unconquerable souls (2/28/2010)

2010-02-28T16:37:00.006-06:00

From coming across William Ernest Henley (1849-1903) poem "Invictus" in its Chinese translated version when I was a teen, to watching Clint Eastwood's movie "Invictus", starring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon, I came to a conclusion that we do live in One World, a "World of Cherishing Unconquerable Souls". Sticking to my mind, while traveling through different time and space and living in different lives, has been and will always be those words of courage, perseverance, and endurance that have inspired us all (Below text from William Ernest Henley's poem "Invitus"):

"Out of the night that covers me,

Black as the pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll,

I am the master of my fate,

I am the captain of my soul."

Amy Xu (Dorsey & Whitney, partner)

Team Strong Heart 2008 (team) and 2010 (solo)

612-991-4912

http://www.teamstrongheart.com/

http://www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com/

The last RAAM indoor simulation ride 2-19-2010

2010-02-21T21:45:00.007-06:00

Spring rides are around the corner while we wrapped up the third and last indoor simulation ride last Friday, 2-19-2010. In a normal winter season here in MN, many cyclists in clubs do not see each other unless they enjoy a common winter sport, such as xc skiing, or go to a holiday party. The common language have been, "Hey, you look quite different without that helmet on," or "Boy, you look faster on skis..." Of course, these jokes will be replayed or repaid during the non-winter season.

Our three indoor simulation rides have become a great winter get-together time among the Greater Team Strong Heart families and friends. Even though some of us stayed in touch through weekly club spinning workouts, etc., we are all in different rebuilding phases or goal race planning stage for an exciting cycling season ahead.

I have posted some training details and comments on the three RAAM indoor simulation rides on the companion blogsite: http://www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com/. Thanks for your participation and support, and hope to see you soon on the road.

Amy Xu (Dorsey & Whitney, partner)

Team Strong Heart 2008 (team) and 2010 (solo)

612-991-4912

http://www.teamstrongheart.com/

http://www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com/

Happy Lunar New Year Day & Heart-Day (2/14/2010)

2010-02-15T09:15:00.007-06:00

2010 Team Strong Heart Fundraiser Raffle Tickets are now available:

A variety of prizes include a new bike, a new bike trainer, a new bike frame, a free 2-night lodging at Rainbow Resort, movie theater tickets, books on RAAM for kids, DVDs, Gophers Football tickets- club level tickets ($100 value), EK Endurance Training gift certificates ($200 value), GO-Girl products (priceless), etc. The top 4 prizes are:

1st Prize: new 2009 Gary Fisher aluminum/carbon with carbon form $1,000 value
2nd Prize: Rock N Roll Pro from Kinetic donated $699 value
3rd Prize: Diamondback Insight 1 flat bar road bike $499 value
4th Prize: 2 night stay Rainbow Resort Lodging (up to 4 people) $350 value

Tickets: $5/ each (Need not be present to win)
Drawing held at Trailhead Cycling & Fitness, on June 26, 2010, Sat. at 6 pm

Please contact: teamstrongheart@gmail.com or xu.amy@dorsey.com for tickets

Happy New Year 2010!!! TEAM STRONG HEARTS!!!

2010-01-01T11:00:00.002-06:00

Amy Xu tackles the climb outside Congress, AZ RAAM 2008

I'm very honored to once again represent Team Strong Heart in taking on the challenge of RAAM 2010 to continuously support our Camp Odayin mission. Currently, the information is posted on www.teamstrongheartamyxu.blogspot.com or www.raceacrossamerica.org.

The 3,000+ mile journey in 2010 will start in Oceanside, CA on June 8 (for the female solo category), through 15 states, and finish in Annapolis, MD. This mission has no limit and is beyond ourselves -- it is the Will to Do and Soul to Dare. Your help and continuous support for TEAM STRONG HEART's mission to support Camp Odayin kids are greatly appreciated.

All individual donation proceeds go to support the RAAM 2010 mission for CAMP ODAYIN (check made payable to and mail to: SILENT SPORTS FOUNDATION C/O CAMP ODAYIN, P.O. Box 2827, Minneapolis, MN 55402)

Best wishes,

Amy Xu

Team Strong Heart 2008 and 2010

Team Strong Heart needs YOU! in 2010

2009-12-15T08:00:00.002-06:00

Seasons Greetings! from Team Strong Heart and the Silent Sports Foundation.

If you have not heard Team Strong Heart has once again registered a team to participate in the 2010 Race Across America (2010 RAAM). Exactly what form this squad will take is yet to be determined.

This is where we need to hear from you! Ideally we would like to see a 4-person relay team take shape. To date, two riders have expressed strong interest. Tim Case, TSH and RAAM (soloist & team!) veteran, is tentatively heading up this effort.

So what this means is ANYONE who has interest in participating in this epic event, either as rider or support crew, here is your opportunity!! Spots are open right now and we would like to hear from you if you are interested. Anyone who is interested should reply within a week or so as we try to get a good idea what form the 2010 will take.

If you are interested please let us know by sending a response here: 2010 TEAM STRONG HEART

The date for this year's Race Across America team start is June 12, 2010. The race itself takes around 7 days. With travel days to the start in Oceanside, CA and return home from the finish at Annapolis, MA the entire adventure takes about two weeks. And guaranteed... this will be two of the most interesting and exciting weeks you'll ever live!

So for anyone who is interested, please give it some thought and get back to us soon. We look forward to hearing from you!!

Please feel free to respond with any questions you have, we would be happy to answer inquires you might have regarding Team Strong Heart or RAAM.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Jay Thompson - President Silent Sports Foundation 2007 Team Strong Heart Member

Final TSH09 - victory comes in pairs!

2009-10-27T12:09:00.003-05:00

As a final cap on the events of Team Strong Heart for 2009, I wanted to leave you all with a final note of success. The primary goal for Team Strong Heart was to see the lives of children and young adults changed by means of economic relief. Team Strong Heart once again delivered a sizable amount to Camp Odayin and as a result many children were able to experience life in ways we all take for granted.

Team Strong Heart succeeded on the road but more importantly we have succeeded in the hearts and souls of the families and children at Camp Odayin. We are closing out our books and moving to 2010 and I am sad to see 2009 head into the past. Working for Camp Odayin and TSH this year was an honor and the friends that joined the TSH family agree...2009 was a success in ways that carry no equal.

So, as we head into the planning for 2010 (not me but others), I encourage you all to stay the course and support TSH as your dollars and time DIRECTLY affected the lives of people living with heart conditions. Your hard earned dollars made a major difference....to that I say thank you.

Keep a weather eye on the plans for years to come. We aren't going anywhere but rather we are gaining more support to further this cause.

See you on the road!

Andrew Claflin

Final Review for 2009 from the people of RAAM

2009-07-21T15:00:00.003-05:00

Just in and released from the Race Across AMerica organization...

Team Strong Heart posted in FIRST PLACE.

RAAM 4-Person Male
1st Team Strong Heart (USA) 3021 miles - 6d 10h 30m (19.56mph)
2nd Austria Triathlon Team (AUT) 3021 miles – 6d 15h 07m (18.99mph)
3rd OC Quattro (USA) 3021 miles – 6d 16h 25m (18.83mph)
4th Vencendo Desafios Team Brazil (BRA) 3021 miles – 7d 8h 07m (17.16mph)
5th Team SaveBuzzardsBay.org (USA) 3021 miles – 7d 8h 42m (17.10mph)
6th Berliner (GER) 3021 miles – 7d 10h 23m (16.94mph)
7th Ari’s Angels (USA) 3021 miles – 7d 14h 35m (16.55mph)
8th Equipe Schwarz (GER) 3021 miles – 7d 21h 15m (15.96mph)
9th Drew’s Crew (USA) 3021 miles – 7d 23h 18m (15.79mph)
DNF Team Surfing USA (USA) 1911 miles – TS #32 – 3d 21h 51m (20.37mph)

Despite having all things crazy take place in that week, one thing was the clarifying of where we stood on the record. This sums up all speculation and will aid in resolving our minds and hearts even though we all know what we did on the open road. RAAM sent this email out as a final resolve to the race and I think I speak for all on the team/crew/sponsors and friends (along with the other 4 person teams) that this was what we all needed!

This is big for us, all of us. Enjoy the week and keep ridin'!

Andrew

TSH and Fat Tire - Chequamagon 40

2009-07-14T12:28:00.002-05:00

It appears that Team Strong Heart is going to represent in the Chequamagon Fat Tire Festival in Sept - Congrats to JayT and family for letting the creative juice flow on the essay. As we all seem to stride back to normal life - LOL - we are gearing up here and there for some major races/rides etc... Melinda, Amy, Jay and Neil (TSH 07-08) are team time trialing in the Firehouse 50 race in a few weeks and may the Good Lord have mercy on you guys...Melinda is on fire and not easy to draft behind. Love ya Melinda and fear ya on the bike.

The best part of RAAM thus far has been the new friends and added family to the TSH society. I have had a blast keeping tabs with all the crew/riders. We should have some posts of some of the 09 crew's crazy adventures riding here and there.

Chequamagon is right around the corner and I cant wait to wear the Team Strong Heart kit with pride and to race with friends and more over...enjoy this race for all that it is...painful and fun.

I see its raining outside right now and that means one thing...time to ride the mt bike in the slop!

TSH Party July 11 @ Trailhead, More Photos

2009-07-07T17:22:00.003-05:00

More random photos from this years championship RAAM effort...

RAAM Pictures and July 11 Party

2009-07-05T14:50:00.003-05:00

Hi all,

We are hard at work assembling and editing pictures from our championship RAAM effort this year. Stay tuned for the release of an official Team Strong Heart picture and video DVD. In the mean time, don't forget the party and raffle at Trailhead in Champlin on July 11 and here's just a few of the pics from this year's epic race...

Tim

Raffle Drawing July 11th....

2009-07-02T09:58:00.003-05:00

Andy and Brett (front) Climbing in CO. Long steady and steep climb

With the close of RAAM...or the break from RAAM as it seems many are now in the hunt to continue the adventure next year...we are having our raffle drawing and party on July 11th at Trailhead Cycle in Champlin, MN. Don't worry, you don't need to be present to win but you do have to have a purchased ticket to potentially win.

Might I add that you are all winners in this as your hard earned money and time have allowed TSH09 to WIN BIG on RAAM and most importantly your donations have fueled the dreams of so many at Camp Odayin - another successful year. Our goal has been simple - help our cause first and foremost...then leave it all on the road for the race. We were able to accomplish both tasks with victory - my hats off to all of you!

With that being said - we have some quality prizes to add to the mix and more coming. Eric Kenney - of EK Endurance - has offered some free coaching as a prize for the raffle. He has given to me three coupons for his services to try out. If you are wondering who he is and how good he is - ask Steve or myself. We followed his plan - Steve more than myself - and look at the results. 1st place finish doesn't lie. Thank you Eric for your contribution to help TSH and to see people enjoy biking more and more!

From high dollar Hed Wheels to vacation stays at Rainbow Resort to various gifts in between...make sure to attend the raffle to not only claim a gift or two but to also hear the great stories of RAAM2009.

A side note - the recovery of the TSH team is going well. Easy does it is the key phrase. Give us a week or two and we will be back in the hot seat laying down some serious miles and it looks like Steve may be sporting a new frame here soon...he rode so hard he destroyed his Orbea...that is pure power!

See ya on the road and thank you for your continued support!

In my quest....

2009-07-01T09:37:00.003-05:00

I was able to find a video of TSH on RAAM 09. Well, its actually me and the story is funny. When we came to the salt lake area, we had lost Steve off the front. What that means is that the wind was so fast that all the riders were flying past the time stations and gaining enormous amounts of time on their crew. Steve continued on the path across the landscape that looked like the Iraqi plains. The bad thing is we didn't know exactly where he was b/c he was so far out front.

After about an hour of searching here and there, we knew he was up the road but wow...it took a LONG time to find him. The cars needed gas and night time was soon to follow so we had to fuel up and that meant Steve was alone in the tailwind. This normally isn't a bad thing - but come 8pm we had to have a car behind us... Brett and I were in the RV heading up the road at 70mph and the two cars were concerned that Steve may have taken a wrong turn so they were looking on other roads - it was a bit confusing at that station. After about an hour we were worried that Steve was out of water - he was - and it is hot. We put the pedal down and found a yellow / green jersey about 1/2 mile ahead of the RV. We didn't think it was Steve b/c there was NO way anyone could have made that kind of ground on the cars...it was Steve. We passed Steve quickly then and yelled to transition to get him OFF the bike ASAP. I got out and realized that my bikes were on the Jeep and Steve had his back up bike on the RV - we have the same pedals.

In haste - I grabbed his bike which is about 3 sizes too small and Steve blasted by at about 35 mph - not stopping. Back into the RV and up the road we go. I yelled again - GET OFF THE ROAD WHEN WE STOP!!!! In this transition - I found out why Steve was so far ahead - 30 some mph tailwinds had ALL groups holding major speed for miles on end. Problem - Steve had compact cranks on his back up bike and it was TOO SMALL. Just then, a car came up from behind and I thought it was our Jeep....I had been riding for about 40 mins at that time at 35 mph and at times 40 mph and figured my time on the bike here was to just relieve Steve until Tim could make it up. The car turned out to be a Media Truck and they took some pics and vids of me cruzin - maxed out spinning on the compacts biggest gear...LOL. I look like a circus performer on a small bike - no offense Steve as you are not a circus performer...but one bad #$$ biker instead.

So the vids are of me on Steves bike...lacking leg extension and with close to an hour or just under on the bike I was dry as the salt air was creating breathing issues. The Jeep finally got up to me with 1 min to go before lights and follow veh became mandatory. In this stretch - Steve and I were able to make ground on the 8 person team - donate life - and passed them. they eventually passed us for good in Missouri I think but it was a healthy battle for 2000 miles...yes, they were an 8 person team.

Just a note - the form here is not that good as the bike is too small for me...I did end up sitting way off the back of the seat to make it work so my knees wouldn't break but my quads were burning. That was the most fun on a bike in a long time. 35-40 mph for about an hour on a flat. I made a comment to the media truck as they rode along side me saying " So this is what its like to be Eddy Merckx on a training ride..." We all laughed a bit and I pressed on ... wondering if our Jeep was going to make it up in time for night riding. They did and it was dad and Ed that brought relief. Steve and I later said it was way too much fun on that section but the heat and salt were too much to deal with at times.

Looking for more vids....

Andy

Tailwind and Talent

2009-06-30T09:04:00.003-05:00

The 2009 edition of the Race Across America was an epic journey for Team Strong Heart. It was a journey that began many moons before the start last Saturday and it is a journey, that, for many of us, will continue far into the future., well beyond our championship run of this year.

To say that the Race Across America is “just” a bike race is like saying that Rome is just a city. The RAAM changes your life, changes the lives of those closest in your life and very much reaches into all aspects of life for crew, racers, staff and organizers. You’ve completed RAAM, what can’t you achieve?

In 2009, Team Strong Heart has set a new standard for organizing and executing the “world’s toughest bike race,” with honor, integrity and class. Plus, we were damned fast. Like one of our crewmen, Terry, told me after a late night shift on the road…”You guys have tailwind and talent.” What else is there really?

I can personally attest that Andy, Steve, Brett and myself, along with our crew, pushed ourselves to the ultimate limit during this years RAAM. It was awesome. Of course, once the race begins, most of the racers don’t really see very much of each other. I saw Steve every time we traded off a riding pull, but for the most part we spend time alone on the road and with our crew in one of the support vehicles. That being said, I knew with absolute certainty that each of the racers and crew were giving 100% all of the time, from the time we headed out to Oceanside to when the very last of us left Annapolis today. Steve and I knew that if we put in the effort, that effort would continue on into Andy and Brett’s shift on the bike. Having that knowledge adds a certain level of “comfort” to the race, knowing you aren’t working in vain.

There were so many stories to come out of this race and many of you will be fortunate enough to hear about just a few of them. The grandure of RAAM comes both from the sheer immensity of the race, the distances involved, the amount of climbing, etc., but it also comes from those individual and highly personal moments out on the bike, in the RV and out on the road. As k us and we’ll be happy to share, but absolutely nothing can replicate the real thing in real time.

There were ups and downs in emotions, fatigue and terrain, but we always came back to the mission and values that Team Strong Heart has strived for since its inception. We had some amazing and wonderful and terrible things happen out on the road, and we certainly couldn’t have predicted the crazy 12 hours in Missouri that changed the race for our team and our main competitors team. Some finished the race and others weren’t so lucky, but arriving in Annapolis came with both a sense of honor and a sense of respect for those who didn’t quite make it We are grateful for everyone on the road, finishers or no.

To encapsulate the race into a one or two page blog is a fools errand, to be sure. Instead, let me suggest that from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean there are roads that are high enough to cross the continental divide, low enough to be ridden below sea level, steep enough to reach out in front of your bike and touch them and also steep enough to tuck in so deep into your bike that your chin rests on your handlebars. We had tires delaminate, shoes melt into the pavement from the heat, wind whip across us on a 4000 foot descent, dogs jump out, cars and racers get lost or get well ahead of the rest of us, deer snap to attention on the side of the road, elk bugle at 10,000 feet at 0300 in the morning, and humidity that makes you permanently moist, from beginning to end.

But we return to the people who comprise Team Strong Heart. If I have anything to say about it, we will ALWAYS return to our supporters and our crew who bring us to the start line every year and draw us to the finish line in our deepest, darkest hours. Without your love and support, none of this would be possible.

Plans are already being made for the 2010 RAAM. Yep, I said it. We’ll be back for another go at it, one way or the other. I am going to form a four-man or person relay for next year,or maybe I‘ll go solo again. Who knows (wink)? We have to defend our title, right? We may have some new solo racers out there and there might even be a womens team forming in the future. Al of this is wonderful news, now let’s get back to work.

Come join us and see for yourself if what is said is so.

Camp Odayin is grateful for our efforts. I’m grateful to be associated with a world-class organization and promise to carry the Team Strong Heart torch into the future.

Yours in cycling, supporting the hope and promise of Camp Odayin and keeping the rubber side down.

Tim Case

Team Strong Heart Wins 4-Man Race Across America!

2009-06-28T23:00:00.000-05:00

Celebration!

Hi all,

Groggy from a too-short nap...early this morning Team Strong Heart crossed the finish line in Annapolis, MD in FIRST PLACE, with a new Team Strong Heart trans-continental record time of 6 Days, 10 Hours and 30 minutes!!!

Many thanks to our crew, staff and racers for another epic adventure in the Race Across America, truly the toughest sporting event in the world.

Stay tuned for a full race report, photos, updates and random thoughts on our championship effort...

Keep the rubber side down.

Tim Case

Ben Popp Solo Finish

2009-06-28T22:00:00.002-05:00

Ben Popp - photo by RAAM

Just a quick post regarding RAAM soloist Minnesotan Ben Popp. Ben finished today (Sunday, 6/28) with an official time of 11d, 1hr, 12min. Congratulations to Ben Popp!

Saturday Update

2009-06-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

Steve & Tim in route earlier - photo by RAAM

Andy & Brett in route earlier - photo by RAAM

Update 8Am CDT: Team Strong Heart has officially finished the 2009 Race Across America!

TSH crossed the finish line in Annapolis, Maryland early this morning at 3:46AM CDT. The team completed 3021 miles of racing with an official time of 6 days, 10hours, & 30 mins with an average speed of 19.56mph.

Congratulations to Team Strong Heart! We look forward to hearing from the team after a well deserved rest.

Update 1:07AM CDT: Team Strong Heart just passed through Mt. Airy, MD and time station #51. It looks like TSH will finish the 2009 RAAM right around 4AM CDT. 2967mi raced, 54mi to go!! Soon racers & crew can experience a real bed and a good nights (or day) sleep. These riders & crew have done it all on very little sleep, not more than 2 or 3 hours at a time for most. And that's for 6 plus days straight!

Update 12AM CDT: This is it! Team Strong Heart is closing in on Annapolis, Maryland and the conclusion of RAAM.

There are only three time stations left! TS#51 at Mt. Airy, MD, TS#52 at Odenton, MD, and TS#53 in Annapolis, MD. Current conditions in the area: 68F, scattered clouds, and calm.

Friday Update

2009-06-26T23:30:00.000-05:00

last 80 mile pull. leaving PA to finish...should be done abouut 3 am

RAAM Tatoo - directions through WV.. (6/22)

RAAM- whe full grown men sleep like babes (6/26)

Tim Case (6/26)

Steve and Tim exchange (6/26)

Ed & Lara workin' the hills of WV

Friday 2:30AM, Andy, soaking wet, downpour, somewhere in Ohio... (6/26)

RAAM Leaderboard

Team Strong Heart Progress Map

Update 11:30PM CDT: Team Strong Heart races through Hanover, PA and TS#50 at 11:04PM CDT. Less than 100 miles now remain until the finish. How often does 100 miles sound like so little?

Update 10:00PM CDT: Team Strong Heart is now in Pennsilvania and closing on TS#50 in Hanover, PA. Should be riding through Gettyburg, PA right now. Once they reach Hanover, TSH will have less than 100 miles to go! Current conditions: 68F, clear, calm.

Update 4:30PM CDT: TS#47 has been passed. TSH is now in Maryland. Current conditions: 87F, clear, winds W 12mph with a chance of more thurderstorms. Closing in on the finish line, less than 220mi to go! RAAM estimates are for a 3AM CDT finish.

Update 2PM CDT: Team Strong Heart will enter Maryland and pass through a couple time stations before moving in Pennsylvania. After Pennsylvania its back into Maryland for good and on to the Finish line at Annapolis!

Right now the team is in route to TS#47 at La Vale, Maryland. The miles are ticking down... about 250mi to go!

Update 12:30PM CDT: Team Strong Heart is now on their was to Gormania, WV after reaching TS#45 in Grafton, WV. Current conditions in Gormania: 72F, overcast, winds W 8mph. 2707 miles raced, 314 to go!

The Austria Triathlon Team has now moved past the OC Quattro Team as the next team back from TSH. The gap appears to be about 3 1/2hours.

Update 7AM CDT: TSH has reached West Virginia now after racing through storms overnight. Right now they are racing toward Smithburg, WV after passing through Ellenboro, WV and TS#44 at 6:50AM CDT this morning. Conditions in the area are a little more bearable now at: 69F, clear, dew point 65F, and light south winds.

Only nine time stations remain until Annapolis Maryland and the finish. RAAM projects have an estimated finishing time of around 2AM Saturday (6/27).

Thursday Update

2009-06-25T21:00:00.001-05:00

Team Strong Heart clothes dryer, RV, and eatery (6/24)

RAAM Leaderboard

Team Strong Heart Progress Map

Update 9:30PM CDT: Team Strong Heart has now passed through TS# 40 & 41 and are now in Ohio. Currently they are on there way to TS#42 in Chillicothe, OH. Current weather condition have now combined the heat & humidity they have been experiencing with heavy rain & thurderstorms. Currently it is 72F, dew point 69F, winds S 8mph. If they are experiencing storms I'm sure there is gusty winds too.

Update 4PM CDT: TSH reached TS#39 in Greensburg. IN at 2:48PM CDT. 2358mi raced, 662mi to go.

Update 11:06AM CDT: TSH passes through TS# 38, Bloomington, IN. Current conditions: 86F, clear, dew point 72F, wind wsw 6 mph. Team OC Quattro is now the next team behind TSH.

Update 7:59AM CDT: TSH has crossed into Indiana and passed through TS#37 in the city of Sullivan. Today will be a long day for Team Strong Heart. In the period 48 to 24 hours before the finish you are ready for the race to be over, the end is near, but yet seems far off. Once they hit the 24hrs to-go mark they will begin to taste the finish. The last day is long too but you are closing in on the finish line and the day passes quicker. But today, they have to put in another day: 2230 miles raced, 790 to go...

Update 7:30AM CDT: The last time station Team Strong Heart passed through was #36 in Effingham, IL. That was at 4:05AM CDT. Today the team will be racing its way into Ohio before nightfall comes. It will be another hot and humid day with temps in the 90's and dew points in the 70's. There is a good chance of thunderstorms along the way too.

It might be a little early to project a finishing time but at TSH's current pace RAAM estimates show them finishing right around midnight tomorrow night (Fri 6/26).

The finish of the solo competition will be one to watch. Current leader, 4x winner Jure Robic, and competitor Dani Wyss have been trading the lead for the last day or more. They are only about 200 miles from the finish and only minutes separate the two. RAAM estimates have them finishing around 9PM CDT tonight! Minnesotan Ben Popp is still in the mix and is projected to finish Sunday (6/28). Hats off to the soloists!

Wednesday Update

2009-06-24T22:37:00.004-05:00

Team Strong Heart Reaches the Mississippi River (bridge in lights - 6/24)

Madonna is on the scene! (6/24)

Another morning still on the road in Kansas (6/24)

RAAM Learderboard

Team Strong Heart Progress Map

Update 10:37PM CDT: Team Strong Heart just reached TS#34 and passed over the Mississippi River! They will be racing through Illinois overnight. By morning we should find them in Indiana. Stand by for more racing action, the miles are ticking down now!

Update 10:30PM CDT: Sorry for the long gap in updates. I ended up being away from the computer for many hours and I locked out fill-in guy Neil by accident. Back to race action...

Team Strong Heart is now now approaching the Mississippi River and TS#34! Current conditions in St. Louis, MO: 85F with a 73F dew point and no wind, YUK! I think all the racers are sick of the sticky heat...

TSH is currently leading the field after several hours of neck-and-neck racing with Team Surfing USA. We have now learned that an unfortunate incident has taken Team Surfing USA out of the competition.

I am uncertain as to what actually happened and reports have been vague. I do know that nobody has suffered any life threatening injuries. It sounds like possibly a broken ankle was suffered by the Team Surfing USA rider involved.

I'm sure I share the same feeling as all of you RAAM fans and I'm very sorry to hear of this. The competition was good and it made for great action!

Update 11:34AM CDT: Wow! at the last time station (Camdenton, MO) that TSH passed through minites ago the gap between them and Team Surfing USA was 3 minutes. It is amazing that after 1853 miles and 91 hours of racing these two teams are so close. Stay tuned as the cat & mouse game continues. There is still a lot of racing left and anything could happen! Good luck to both teams!

Update 10AM CDT: Andy just checked in via cell phone. Spirits are high and things are going well. He reported that as they pulled into the last time station they encountered Team Surfing USA's complete vehicle support fueling up. IF all their vehicles are there, that means their riders are very close too. And wait... checking the leaderboard it appears Team Surfing USA pulled into the last time station only 4 minutes ahead of Team Strong Heart. That means TSH narrowed the gap by about 20 minutes over the last time station leg alone!!

Update 9:45AM CDT: TSH has reach Missouri and TS#30 at Weaubleau, MO. Madonna has now joined up with the TSH. She will be the sole female on the crew living out of an RV for the balance of the race with a bunch of stinky guys. Good luck to Madonna!

Current weather consditions: 85F, light winds from the SE, and a steamy dew point of 72F. There is also a chance of thunderstorms in the forecast.

Last year it was in Missouri were the 08 Team Strong Heart encounterd this scene.

Update 9AM CDT: The RAAM Solo Competition is worth a mention. The race for the lead is virtually a tie right now. Jure Robic who has been dominant the past few years is being seriously challenged by the German Dani Wyss. Robic has not had this kind of pressure over the last few years.

Minnesotan Ben Popp has also been very impressive as he continues to hold his spot on the leaderboard.

Check out the soloist leaderboard here.

Update 8AM CDT: Team Strong Heart is now approaching the Missouri state line. I'm sure like every other team they will be happy to put Kansas behind them. The gap between TSH and Team Surfing USA continues to shrink. At last check there were only 25 minutes between them as they pasted through TS#29 in Fort Scott, KS.

Andy check in via cell phone about 11:45PM last night. They were in El Dorado, KS and had just finished a shift. He was calling from a Walmart while shopping for re-supplies. He reported the teams are feeling the heat!

The states will start to zip by now as they move east. By days end today they should reach the Mississippi River. Today is the day that they also gain a fresh crew member. Madonna Lindgren joins the team at one of the first time stations in Missouri. She has a hotel room waiting with a real shower for when the team arrives. A few lucky team members will get to clean up!

Tuesday Update

2009-06-23T22:30:00.004-05:00

Photo by Brendon Purdy RAAM - Brett Descends

More Kansas (6/23)

Mid-Kansas (6/23)

Crew readies bike (6/23)

Kansas Sunrise (6/23)

Check the RAAM Leaderboard here

Today marked the half way point as Tem Strong Heart passed through TS#25 in Pratt, Kansas (mile 1500!) at 5:50PM CDT this evening.

Update 10:30PM CDT: Checking in on Team Strong Heart finds them 27 minutes behind Team Surfing USA on the road but with their (TSUSA) 30 minute time penalty that gap is erased and it is more or less a dead heat! The race is on!

TSH is now between Maise, KS and El Dorado, KS and are heading for TS#27. Hot conditions were encountered this afternoon as TSH reports temperatures topping 100F! Current conditions in Maise, KS: 82F, clear, with a steamy 72F dew point! Temperatures will hover in the 70's overnight not offering a lot of relief from the heat. Tomorrow will be another hot day with highs well into the 90's with very humid conditions as the make they way into Missouri.

Update 2:30PM CDT: Just took a call from Andy as he and Brett just ended a shift. The weather is hot, Andy reports 98F!, and the racing is good. Andy and Brett have experienced one flat tire each otherwise it sounds like all equipment is functioning well. TSH has now been racing for over 1400 miles and 68 consecutive hours!

Update 1:30PM CDT: Team Strong Heart has taken the lead! Team Surfing USA has incurred a 30min time penalty which puts Team Strong Heart into the lead. TSH is currently between TS#23 in Plains, KS and TS#24 in Bucklin, KS. Current conditions in Bucklin, KS: 93F, clear, with wind S at 13mph. TSH is feeling a little humidity too with the dew point at 63F.

Update 7AM CDT: Checking in this morning there is a text message stamped 6:51AM from Andy saying they just passed the first (last place) soloist. TSH is now between TS#21 in Clayton, New Mexico and TS#22 at Elkhart, Kansas. To get to Elkhart they will leave New Mexico and ride across the pan handle of Oklahoma. Elkhart sits on the KS/OK border. Current conditions: 66F with calm winds. The temps will climb into the 90's on the route today.

Check the leaderboard sees that Team Strong Heart has trimmed the gap to the leaders (Team Surfing USA) to 37 minutes at the last time station!

Update 12AM CDT: The team has now passed through TS#19 in Cimarron, NM. I think it is Andy and Brett who are on the road now. They took the shift following Steve and Tim's arrival in Taos, NM. Kansas is on tap for tomorrow. TSH should see temps into the 90's with a slight chance of thunderstorms. Winds will continue to be from the south.

Ben Popp RAAM Soloist Update

2009-06-22T23:30:00.001-05:00

Minnesotan Ben Popp continues his RAAM journey as a soloist. Team Strong Heart has come to appreciate how hard this effort is after team member Tim Case's successful solo effort last year.

Ben continues to hold his position on the leaderboard as the DNF numbers climb. Out of 21 starters 9 have dropped out thus far. This only makes Tim's perseverance in finishing as a soloist for Team Strong Heart last year more apparent.

Talk about your tough row to hoe! Go Ben!

Monday Update

2009-06-22T11:00:00.008-05:00

Steve on the road (6/22)

Veiws from RAAM High Point Manga Pass. Elevation 10,255 feet

Veiw from Pagosa Springs Colorado (6/22 @ 12:30PM CDT)

Driver & Navigator (6/22)

Andy 6/22 @ 8:40AM (CDT)

Gearing up for another shift. Sent by Andy (6/22 @ 6:49AM CDT)

Team Strong Heart has been at it for over 30 hours now, they are more than 680 miles into the race. Monday has the team seeing some beautiful country as they chase towards the east.

Click on each photo above for an expanded view!

Check the RAAM leader board stats here and a progress map here for the latest.

Update 11PM CDT: Team Strong Heart has now passed the 1000 mile mark and are still going strong! That's what a strong four person team can do in about 50 hours! TSH continues to rank high on the leader board, 2nd out of ten 4-male teams to be exact. The gap between the leaders (Team Surfing USA) and Team Strong Heart is currently less than an hour. That is a very small gap by RAAM standards.

TSH is now between TS#18 Taos, NM and TS#19 Cimarron, NM. Overnight they will see temps in the low 50's and it looks like the winds are calm. Tomorrow the team will experience a change in scenery as the leave the beauty of the west and enter in Kansas (bla!). The road will straighten out and flatten out as they cross the plains and continue east.

Update 8:30PM (CDT): Team Strong Heart has now gone over the highest elevation point of the RAAM Route. They passed through TS#17 at Antonio, CO at 5:35PM CDT and are now on their way to Taos, New Mexico and TS#18. The should arrive shortly. When they reach Taos, NM they will have been on the course for over 1000 miles!

Update 4PM (CDT): TSH reached TS#16 at Chuma, New Mexico at 3:08PM (CDT). They are now heading back into Colorado for a short time before the continue back into New Mexico. Current condition on the CO/NM border: 82F and clear with wind out of the SW are 16mph. Andy called just after he and Brett finished their last shift in Pagosa Springs, CO. He said things were going good and everyone was feeling pretty good. During Andy and Brett's next shift they will tackle La Manga Pass topping out at an elevation of 10,255. That is the high point of the RAAM route. Good luck guys!

Update 12:23PM (CDT): TSH has now reached TS#15 in Pagsa Springs, CO. With 885 miles of racing behind them they are about to leave Colorado and head into New Mexico. The weather continues to be very nice with temps in the 70's and 80's expected for the balance of the daylight hours. The sky is clear and the reported wind speeds are light and variable. TS#16 in Chama, New Mexico is the next destination.

Update 8:45AM (CDT): TSH passed through TS#14 in Durango Colorado at 8:45AM. Conditions in Durango at the time: 55F with calm winds. The next TS is in Pagosa Springs, CO were the team with do another shift change. Steve and Tim will be up next!

Update 7AM (CDT): Team Strong Heart passed through Utah over night and has now raced for over 770 miles! They are now between Cortez and Durango Colorado (TS# 13&14). Conditions in Durango this morning: 39F, clear with wind at 5mph from the NE. In a brief text message Andy reports he and Bret will be taking the shift from TS#13 in Cortez, CO to TS#15 in Pagosa Springs, CO. They should arrive at TS#15 sometime between 11AM and Noon (CDT). They should see temps near 70F as they reach Pagosa Springs.

Update 12:22AM (CDT): TS#11 at Mexican Hat Utah has been reached. The gap is only about 45 minutes off the lead! TSH will race their way through Utah in the dark. Conditions as they passed through Mexican Hat, UT: 74F with a SW wind at 12mph. That is about as nice as you can ask for!

Other RAAM News: Soloist Ben Popp

2009-06-21T23:30:00.003-05:00

Fellow Minnesotan Ben Popp continues to do well in the RAAM Solo category. He has maintained his respectable spot on the leader board as the DNF list continues to climb.

You can follow Ben's progress here. Best of luck to Ben.

After hearing 09TSH member Tim Case's first hand stories of doing RAAM as a soloist (2008), I have an all new respect for the individuals who make this attempt. It is simply beyond comprehension!

Just four hounds for right now.

2009-06-21T19:42:00.005-05:00

Photo by RAAM, Tim sometime on Sunday (6/21)

Andy waiting at TS6 in Prescott, AZ

We have been going back and forth with an 8 man team (Team Donate Life) all night. Lots of climbing now and no end in sight. Everyone is doing great. Spirits are high. We are in good position and know it is a long race. Would rather be the hound than the rabbit.

Posted for Brett by Lisa

Sunday Update

2009-06-21T17:00:00.009-05:00

Blurry, sleppy RV life. Sent by Andy after riding into Flagstaff (6/21@6:46PM CDT)

Brett ready to ride near Jerome, AZ (6/21 @ 1:22PM CDT)

Andy heading for Sedona, AZ (6/21 @ 11:57AM CDT)

Team Strong Heart continues to move along. At last check 11AM (Central) the team had pasted through Time Station #5 in Congress Arizona. They are on their way to TS#6 in Prescott AZ. THS is maintaining their second place position among the 10 4-male teams.

The weather conditions are very moderate. The temperature in Congress AZ, known for being a HOT spot, is currently a very nice 82F with winds from the SE at about 10mph. Conditions in Prescott currently and as the team gains elevation on their way towards Flagstaff they will find temperature falling into the 50's.

Check RAAM leader board stats here and a progress map here

Update 10:29PM (CDT): TS#10 has been reached at Kayenta, AZ. The next TS is in Mexican Hat Utah. TSH will probably be doing a shift change soon. Tim and Steve will most likely be on duty through the night. Go Team Strong Heart!

Update 7:29PM (CDT): TSH has now raced for over 560 miles in a little over 24 hours. They have reached TS#9 in Tuba City, AZ and are currently holding their place high on the RAAM leader board. They continue to have a nice tailwind and and mild temps as they race their way toward the Utah border. The racers will see temps dip to around 50F overnight. The RAAM route will take Team Strong Heart through some of the most beautiful parts of the course over the next 24hrs.

Update 4:49PM (CDT): TSH has pasted through TS#8 in Flagstaff, AZ. Weather conditions in Flagstaff were very pleasant as they passed through. It was 73F with wind out of the SW at 20mph. That is a nice push from Mother Nature! In Flagstaff there was most likely a shift change and Steve and Tim should now be on the road. They are headed for Tuba City, AZ as they head into the evening.

Update 1:35PM (CDT): TSH has now passed through TS#7 in Cottonwood, AZ. TS#8 is located in Flagstaff, AZ. This next section is a very tough one as they tackle many climbs on their way to Flagstaff. Current conditions in Cottonwood: 84F with SSE winds at 16mph.

Update 11:29AM (CDT): TSH reaches TS#6 in Prescott, AZ. Now heading for TS#7 in Cottonwood, AZ. Estimated arrival time is about 1:30PM (CDT).

Look here for more updates later today!

Happy Fathers Day and go Team Strong Heart!

Brief Insiders View of Where We're At, So Far

2009-06-21T15:08:00.002-05:00

Hey all,

Sitting in Flagstaff, AZ waiting for our Steve and my shift to start up in a bit and just wanted to drop a quick note out here about what we've been up to and how the experience has unfolded.

Thanks to Jay for keeping y'all updated on a more regular basis...

The ride to Flagstaff has been arduous. Mercifully, knock on wood, the temps have been decent and everyone is riding so strong and the crew has been near flawless in helping us do the pedaling across our great nation. There have been many ups and downs, physically and emotionally for all of us. It's a truism of RAAM that every time you saddle your bike for another pull, you just really don't know how you're going to feel. On pull you're strong, the next you want your mommy. Very tough to figure that out.

As you can see, we're doing very well in the standings and have been chipping away at the leaders. Standings aside, everyone on the Team has been awesome and we're completely engaged now in this effort, very well dialed in.

On a personal level, the route across the country on bicycle, 24 hours a day, is a very individual, emotional and physical experience. Each of us, crew and racers, is seeing a slightly different part of the race and hopefully we'll be bringing back experiences and insight that will last a lifetime. My climb earlier today up Yarnell Grade actually brought tears before, during and after hauling butt up its steeps. Last year Congress, AZ was a roadblock of sorts that really defined the rest of my solo effort, and so it was welled-up emotions that I attacked that climb, knowing that I had all of you behind me, giving me that extra push and extra breath when I needed it.

All of us are so very thankful to have supporters, crew and other racers marching us across America.

Andy and Brett are out there right now pedaling out to Flagstaff and Steve and I will take it from there. Can't really think of any place we'd rather be at the moment.

Keeping the rubber side down...

Tim

Team Strong Heart is Roll'n!!

2009-06-20T23:10:00.005-05:00

At the Starting Line

11PM Saturday (central): Just got a call from Andy with an update!

RAAM kicked off officaily at 2PM (4PM central) and Team Strong Heart has started strong! Andy reported in after he and Brett took the first shift. Tim and Steve are now on the road.

Andy reports a strong tailwind for the first leg and looking at average speeds they are sailing! Currently Team Strong Heart is in second place betweeen Time Station #2 Brawley, CA and #3 Blythe, CA.

See a progress map here!

Weather conditions in Blythe, CA at 9PM (PST): 91F and clear with a 14mph wind from the SW.

And they're off!

2009-06-20T20:34:00.018-05:00

Tim and Steve just hanging out waiting for the race to start.

andy with laird hamilton...mr.extreme surfing god. he is rather famous..and so am i....from andy claflin

Waiting at the bridge to start the long journey, looking very relaxed and in good spirits. Let's see how wide the smile is in a couple of days.

Andy, Brett and the crew in one of the vans awaiting their turn to go for a spin.

Posted for Andy and Brett by Lisa

Why We Ride: Team Strong Heart 2009

2009-06-19T22:58:00.005-05:00

My life inexorably changed three years when I was invited to join Bernie, Neil and Greg for the 2007 Race Across America, in support of Camp Odayin.

Here we sit, stand and lay down the night before what's been called the "world's toughest sporting event" by Outside Magazine, and I can't really overstate the immensity of what we're all about to experience.

RAAM is quite simply the most exhausting, brutally honest and punishing event that most of us will ever encounter in our lives. The miles are sometimes miserable, often times boring and occasionally inhumane. The brutality that Team Strong Heart members (crew and racers) willingly endure during the Race Across America is, though, a pittance when compared to the pain and endurance required to live with and mitigate a congenital heart defect or disease.

We race so that the children, staff and families who come to Camp Odayin year-after can continue to do so. We race because some of us are running/riding to something while some of us are always running/riding away... Look at our mission statement. We are a dedicated group of athletes and supporters who are racing for the Camp. We race so that others might live stronger.

Having been down the RAAM road twice already, once as a relay racer and once as a solo racer, I pretty much know what's about to happen to my brothers-in-arms starting at 1400 tomorrow afternoon. It's so many things to so many people and I hope that you'll come with Team Strong Heart for a journey to the center of it all.

When you go to bed tomorrow night, think about which one of us might be out on the open road, taking a pull for everyone whose influence, support and love has brought to this very moment...to the moment where we can pay back all of you, known and unknown. We are doing this race for you and you and that kid over there who came into this world with a defect or disease of the heart.

We promise 6 days of integrity, class, performance and quite simply, results.

Keep the rubber side down.

Tim and all of Team Strong Heart, 2009

TSH Passes Pre-Race Inspections

2009-06-19T15:31:00.005-05:00

Hi all,

Just a quick note to let you know that Team Strong Heart has cleared the "final" pre-RAAM hurdle and has passed all of our official inspections for vehicles, bikes, etc. More detail on the blog later tonight...

On a completely unrelated note, see the pictures above for a "stunning" moustache/bike racer comparison between myself and Garmin Slipstream rider, Dave Zabriskie (thanks to Madonna and Andy for the effort)...

Tim

Pre-RAAM, Day Two, Race Across America 2009

2009-06-18T20:13:00.003-05:00

The adventure continues, rather the pre-adventure continues. Today is/was day two of the pre-RAAM melee that will continue into Saturday and the eventual beginning of the Race.

This morning we met up with more of our crew, with Brett and his brood coming in from the Blythe time station. Last night those guys camped out at Time Station Three and watched the solo male leaders (see also: Jure Robic) come through. They apparently looked tough as nails, and they will need to be, only 230 miles into the 3100 mile race.

We spent a hideous amount of money on groceries at Costco today for our human flotilla (4 racers, 8.5 crew) and the crew has been hard at work laying the groundwork for 6 days of eating. I think we're all eaters with a severe bike riding problem... Along those lines we went out for an easy spin, got accosted by some teenagers (dang kids) and rode along the beach (love the salt and the sights).

Tonight we'll be eating the fruits of the crews hard cooking, chill out with a few brews and hopefully hit the sack for our big day tomorrow. In the morning we'll be out early for vehicle and bike inspections, team photos and every other detail that tends to rear its head pre-RAAM.

Thanks to everyone for your love and support. Stay tuned for an amazing show, put on by yours truly and EVERYONE on Team Strong Heart. This year will be something special, which is almost becoming the "standard" for the racers, crew and supporters of TSH.

Keep the rubber side down...

Tim

Postcards from Oceanside

2009-06-18T16:25:00.001-05:00

Thursday Photos - TSH getting ready

2009-06-18T15:18:00.003-05:00

Ben Popp - RAAM Soloist from MN

2009-06-18T12:00:00.001-05:00

Ben Popp is a 2009 RAAM soloist from Minnesota. The soloists start a few days ahead of the team competitors and they are currently on the course.

Checking the RAAM leader board at noon today (Thursday) finds Ben doing very well currently positioned in 8th in a field of 21 solo starters. Good luck to Ben Popp!

Arrival: Oceanside, California

2009-06-18T00:44:00.002-05:00

Well...we arrived in Oceanside this evening after much, too much driving. All-in-all, though, it was a pretty uneventful trip out from MN to CO and then out here from the mighty Rocky Mountains. We pushed hard to get through the 15 hours of driving, gorged ourselves on some Denny's (try the Pancake Puppies), and are now resting peacefully, anticipating the next couple of days.

Tomorrow we'll be hard at it, prepping the vehicles, getting a short ride in, meeting up with the rest of our team and generally engaging the craziness of RAAM head on.

We're ready. Are you?

Keep the rubber side down.

Tim

Team Strong Heart Arrives in Cali!

2009-06-17T22:10:00.000-05:00

10:10PM (Central time): Andy Claflin, Team Captain for the 09 Team Strong Heart just reported in after arriving in Oceanside California. He is checked in to the hotel TSH is staying in and reports that the next set of TSH arrivals are only ten minutes away.

The remainder of the squad will pull in in tomorrow to begin final preparations. The race for the team competition starts Saturday. The team has very little time to relax while they get everything ready. Tomorrow (Thurs) they will have to prepare their vehicles and bikes for the upcoming pre-race inspections. That's only part of their preparations. They also have to shop for food, change oil,organize the RV, assign chores and duties, and the list goes on.

Stand by for more as the '09 Team Strong Heart prepares for the 2009 Race Across America!

Huntington Beach - random updates

2009-06-17T10:09:00.000-05:00

June 17th.... Huntington Beach

Well, I can post from my phone to my personal blog but not this site. I happen to be at work waiting for my bike to show up from Fedex...and its two days late. I guess I cant complain and such as we have a wonderful ATS family here to keep me fed, warm at night, entertained and the such - thank you Trever and Raquel (and kids!).

The crew from MN/CO (Steve, Tim, Ed, Tom, Chris and Ryan) headed from CO this morning about 5am loaded to the gills and expect to be in Oceanside tonight...what a trip they had! They are in good spirits and moving quick and we are all ready to rock n roll.

The sushi from last night is sitting well - it wasnt that bad at all...I was expecting MUCH worse but it slid down smooth while everyone was watching for something to happen...dont worry guys, it was good and THANK YOU!

Once the bike is here I will assemble and head to Oceanside and get my mind in the game. Not that crazy of updates yet but tonight will be more. I hope to have some pics going up of the RAAM start area once I am there. Enjoy the day - I should be online for a while until old blue shows up.

Andrew

T-minus.....

2009-06-15T14:22:00.001-05:00

RAAM 09 - Team Strong Heart (partial crew/racers in MN less my dad)

Picked up the rental van today...yeah...in the pic...steve, andy, madonna throwin signs and ryan. packing now - arranging etc... leaving tomorrow morning before the sun comes up!!!!!!

Get ready to follow us!

Andrew

Team Strong Heart Spotted!

2009-06-13T00:39:00.000-05:00

I bought my kids some TSH tech-tee's....available at Trailhead Cycle....and on Pete's last day of school, their class went to Cheapskate...gotta love field trips! I got a few pics sent to me of Team Strong Heart supporters out in the public making aware of our mission.

My kids are so excited and sad to have me leaving for two weeks but at the same time they are excited to be able to say that dad is going across the country. They love the shirts and want to wear them all the time. Hint - Peter is 8 and he is wearing a small shirt so you can guess at the sizes that TH has in stock. I have an XL and it fits great but a large fits good too.

I was just kinda struck here looking at the pic as to how grown up Peter looks...where did the time go? And speaking of time flying...where did the last 8 months go? Tomorrow is a ride with the kids on the dirt, pick up the bianchi, get stuff together and just chill with the family - a movie, some biking, some popcorn and making a fort downstairs...a full day is ready to be had.

I was able to ride with Trailhead at the parade in Champlin today - the idea was to ride whatever you wanted from the shop...I picked a new...old school...tandem. I ended up stoking from the rear but steering up front - stretched out over the bike...got the looks for sure. I heard SO MANY people from the crowd yelling - GO TEAM STRONG HEART!!!! Lots of friends I knew waiting to get some candy and to give support... Thank you Champlin/Dayton...it was fun and will be fun to represent Camp Odayin in less than a week on the road...yikes.

Start looking for pics/updates soon as we head to California on Tuesday!!!!!!

Andrew

We are gettin so close I can smell the salty air.

2009-06-09T23:51:00.001-05:00

By this time next week - 11:51pm Tuesday the 16th (9:51pm PDT) I will be in Huntington Beach after a morning flight to CA. I will be staying with my buds at ATS and then driving to Oceanside in the morning to help start the soloists as a ride escort on Wed. How fun is that?

We are in the final steps of preparation...we are close...so close that I can picture myself on the start line with my team of crazies. Our steps to this point would not have been done without your help. So many have come together for our purpose - Camp Odayin. I cant even begin to list the people that have made this possible. You know who you are and if I start to list names it will go for a long time - just like the celebs that list off every person they know at the grammy's.

I will make a special note here to a few that have really pulled this thing together in ways that amaze me...the crew at SSF and Trailhead. They have helped in different ways but both are pivotal in our success....oh....did I almost forget the crew that will be working for cheap as they assist us over the entire 3012 miles? Yeah - they are my best friends!

June 20th is upon us much like the birth of a child - you cant stop it and it may hurt but it will get done. I'm sure there are better ways to picture this but you get the idea of course. The great thing about this is we are as ready as can be - crew, cars, training, endorphins, tactics, parts and tools and so on. Cheer us on and lift us up - this is all I ask.

Look for us out there on RAAM highlights and blog highlights - when you are sleeping...we will be biking!

Andrew

This Ain't No Tour

2009-05-24T22:55:00.001-05:00

Enough Said...we are ready!

A month from now..meaning June 24th..we can expect to be in Missouri heading east. After the long stretch through Kansas we will be tired, weary, anxious, feisty, checking teams, bridging gaps, nursing sores, eating whatever we can, checking sanity, ready to finish, ready to win, smelling ripe, able to sleep on a moments notice, unable to sleep at all, thanking the crew, cursing the bike seat, lathering up on sunscreen, praising the Lord for Chamois butter...the endless cycles of this routine will continue until Maryland.

If you are like me, I was not able to sleep all that much when the 07 team was on the road...the same thing happened last year. I would find myself wondering, as I stared at the ceiling at 3am..." I wonder where they are now?" With these thoughts I would refresh the map and and check updates and realize that either Bernie was just getting done or Tim was still hammering away or Amy was dealing with weather...and so on. I hope you get sleep but really, I hope you are up late praying for us. Be it solo or team - this is an effort. I applaud the soloists as well as the teams...just to get this going is a race and an epic adventure.

Many have asked - how do we do this? How do we plan this out? How many miles do you ride? Do you ride all night? I can answer some of these - tactics are best kept under wraps but in short....the race is 3012 miles. For the soloists...they race them ALL usually riding about 21 hours a day at least. OUCH! Our four-man team - which has TWO soloists from years past - will each complete about 753 miles in about 6 days. That is a lot of miles. Oh and yes, we have a bike going forward 24hrs a day...yes even at 3am.

Also asked...are you ready Andy? I think that is best answered in MD but I would have to say YES with a fist pump to boot. Physically I feel as ready as I can be and getting better each day. I will depend upon those that have gone before me to instruct on various things but I have to say that physically and mentally I am ready to put the pedals down to close up some miles. Geez, I make it sound like it will be a breeze...it wont but it will be fun.

The difference with the teams is that we will be racing at a faster pace than a soloist and trying to maintain that pace over 3012 miles is the trick...steadfast focus is the key - not to mention nutrition, rest.... Team Strong Heart 09 is ready to embark and ready to make this trip.

Follow us - cheer for us - yell at us to pick up the pace and welcome us home...

So whether you are in Iraq (love you Paul), resting with a beverage in MN, looking for dad on video clips while in New Hampshire, watching from the fire station in CO, checking the blog/site from the ATS offices (not during work hours of course), killing time in Stillwater or behind us in a follow vehicle... cheer for us and cheer for Camp Odayin...they are the reason we are doing this.

Head Honcho

The Guilded Armor of TSH09

2009-05-15T09:24:00.001-05:00

THE KITS ARRIVED

Just so yall know what we will look like this year...these baby's are almost here and yes they are available to purchase but we didnt place a large order up front due to time and all other things associated with getting airborn. Its a full zip this year with some new design aspects - the big turtle and new sponsors...and of course some long time trusted sponsors. We wil have to arrange some sort of list/collection system etc if you want to order some kits. The T-shirts are actually Borah's Tech-Tee - its a micro knit poly shirt - NOT COTTON. Trailhead Cycle will have a handful for sale when they come in but the majority were for crew up front. We can order more and I am guessing SSF will have some prices for these soon. I will leave that in the hands of those who know better.

I dont have the bandwidth to collect orders right now so emailing me will result in failure - just sayin'. If somone in SSF can handle this - please do so we can accomodate those that are interested. I wont volunteer anyone.

I am jazzed, excited, nervous, worried, happy and ready to RACE! did I mention almost burned out?

Front of the Jersey

Back of Jersey

Shorts or Bibs rather

Tech-Tee

As of Today...

2009-05-11T14:23:00.000-05:00

35 Days till RAAM

Yeah, I am almost scared to look at the RAAM site...like opening up the cell bill...you peek quick then close it up real quick to then deal with it later...you know the drill.

What I have noticed through this fight - and we haven't even gotten to the start line yet - is how much work there really is to do. Just when one pile is worked through - there is another to take it's place. Be it money, crew, logistics, reservations, expectations, oh - and training, tying up loose ends at work ahead of time, baseball with the kids, boy scouts, cub scouts, marriage, training, crew, logistics...the cycle repeats itself many times over...and sometimes a few times a day.

Where we stand is simple - together.

This time of preparation is nothing short of a team effort from our friends at SSF, past TSH racers/crew and current crazies that are working to get this ready. My hats off to you all. Oh, did I mention our sponsors and friends of TSH that have parted with their hard earned money and coveted time to help? You have seen us riding in shops, riding in the snow, riding at night, begging for money, telling the reasons we fight this fight (Camp Odayin), logging endless hours on narrow bike seats and for what? To be ready...to make TSH09 another winning adventure...to represent Camp Odayin with more of what has been in the past - success.

I cannot speak for our team - individually I mean - but we have a passion that transcends anything we have done before. Tim and Brett have done the ultimate - solo RAAM - but Steve and I are rookies in a brutal field. Our team has relied on prior teams and past experience to prep in all ways possible...and then there is another pile to contend with.

Our struggle isn't over but we are in the lead. So to all that I say...bring on the hurdles and the rings of fire...give me your best b/c thus far, TSH09 has overcome so much with the help of so many and we will reach our goal. When I look at the struggles I think only of one thing - Camp Odayin. No struggle I can deal with will ever match the struggles they overcome every day. I hope you feel the same way when you reach out your hand to help.

The promise that is shared by myself, Steve, Brett and Tim is that we WILL show honor and respect to the team - as a team. We will leave all of our effort ON the road - holding nothing back. We will think of Camp Odayin as it hurts and when it is okay - we will chase down the bl inky lights at night and will drive home a hard effort to be the best on RAAM09...best being measured many ways I suppose but we have a mind to win...and winning means we did everything possible to leave it on the road somewhere between Oceanside CA and Annapolis MD...I'm just hoping I leave the last bits closer to MD. :)

WE DO HAVE RAFFLE TICKETS FOR SALE

$5 gives you some "feel-good" reasons to spend to include: $900 gift card at Trailhead, Kurt Kenetic Trainer, Rainbow Resort stay and the HED Jet wheel-set - slightly used but stellar!

If you want some - email me and we can meet up andy.claflin@gmail.com

A Few Good People

2009-05-10T18:04:00.001-05:00

Hey all,

Team Strong Heart is looking for a few good people to round out our crew roster for the 2009 Race Across America. Duties include, but are not limited do, making food for the racers, meeting irrational demands of other crew members, racers and race officials, drinking copious amounts of coffee and Red Bull at all hours of the day and night, helping drive across the country at 20 miles an hour, etc., etc.

Seriously, though, we are desperately seeking one or two more crew members for our effort this year. It is a tough job, very much a volunteer position, but pretty much the most epic experience you'll have between the dates of June 18 and June 27 (approximate dates and approximate level of epicness).

Team Strong Heart has an outstanding network of passionate people who organize, race and make this crazy thing happen, year after year.

Won't you join us?

E-mail Team Strong Heart member Tim Case, at tim@timcase.net if you're interested. You won't be disappointed if you do!

More from the Team or just general info...

2009-04-17T11:00:00.000-05:00

Friends of TSH and Camp Odayin - I am honored to be here. Honored to ride for a cause that means so much to so many especially during a time when economic turmoil seems more the norm. Aside from the things that we cannot control, I have witnessed countless families give from the heart when it can easily be spent on personal forward movement - both family and companies alike. To all of you - I say thank you. To create such a list would be endless and please take this token of gratitude as sufficient.

We have added some crew members, we have made major adjustments, we have jumped through the rings of fire to only get a little burned yet we have prevailed...as a family. Our family is simply defined as you - our friends, co-workers and strangers that have devoted time and money for Camp Odayin.

We are moving into final preparations for equipment, travel, strategy, potential issues (normal), forms and so on. This process is daunting at times but when I see the children at Camp Odayin being able to enjoy their lives - it is all of a sudden a joy to struggle.

Our efforts are not done yet and we have miles/dollars to go to reach this end. I consider the race to be just getting to California....and the ride across this Great Nation the prize. I am reminded by the few from Camp Odayin that said " we will be watching and waiting to see Team Strong Heart cross this country" and I am truly inspired - and I trust that you are too.

Enjoy the weekend - ride well, ride safe and as Tim says - "keep the rubber side down".

Andrew

TRI-PLE Challenge - indoor triathlon for kids!

2009-03-31T00:00:00.001-05:00

SILENT SPORTS FOUNDATION and RAINBOW RESORT Present the:

TRI-PLE CHALLENGE Indoor Kids Triathlon!

Saturday May 30th, 9AM
Maple Grove Jr. High School
7000 Hemlock LN N
Maple Grove, MN

Click here for details

family.

2009-03-27T21:07:00.000-05:00

I was surprised the other day when I was informed of my dad's interest to crew for RAAM this year...well, not really surprised but surprised. To have someone so eager to share in this adventure is exciting. Well, dad came up with mom to our oldest boy's band concert and we had a RAAM strategy meeting and he was glad to take some burdens off of my back. Family - I suppose some can say that family is not all that easy (we have all been there) but when the chips are down / the motive is lost - that's when you are suprised by family when they once again swoop in and hold you close then encourage you forward. That's my dad.

So for those that desire to be part of an adventure that is like no other - come on in and join the group of those that support the chance to give kids dreams they can believe in at Camp Odayin.

Enjoy the weekend all and maybe see you on the road.

Inspired at lunch and showing my co-workers some RAAM

2009-03-17T12:51:00.000-05:00

I had the chance to enjoy a cup of chili from Potbelly's and then settled in for some inspiration on RAAM. I cued up this video - promotional on youtube for RAAM 08. What I saw was the neat side / painful side and inspiring side of this...and I am sure my thoughts don't even come close to what actually goes on.

With that I say there are some really great moments caught on film about racers and crew and how this type of event - racing or crewing - will change your life.