Another PMC is in the books, and for those counting along at home, that marks #6 for me. Oh how the time flies! This year was certainly a bit different...I only rode the 1 day, 47-mile loop and Kelly stayed back in NJ to work with her mom on finishing up some Roman shades, but I'm still very glad I was able to be a part of this great event for another year. [and with rain on Sunday I'm glad Kel didn't make the trip up...perfect year to take off!]
I drove up to Sturbridge, MA on Friday afternoon to meet up with the Team Xaverian guys who were riding the 2-day routes and to watch the opening ceremonies. A certain 7-time Tour de France winner was riding this year so there was certainly a buzz in the air and the place went nuts when he entered the room.
Lance gave a great talk and really touched on just how important rides like the PMC are and how hopefully at some point we'll find a cure and be able to do these rides just for fun, and not have to raise money anymore! You can check out some video footage of his comments, as well as a great speech by a guy named Tym Rouke who's son had a type of cancer that only 32 people in the country have, on www.pmc.org [just scroll to the bottom] . There wasn't a dry eye in the house after he spoke!
Jo Jo and I stumbled across these two bikes out in the parking lot. Wonder who they belong to? Hmmmmm.
On Saturday we had a huge contingent of supporters out in Wrentham around the 45 mile marker to cheer on the guys heading to Bourne. It was an early start, but a great opportunity to see the PMC from this perspective. I really enjoyed being out there showing my appreciation for the riders as they zoomed past.
Jo Jo, Greg, Seans, Walter, Jim, and Ian. Brian was already halfway to Bourne at this point!
While the guys on Saturday enjoyed some great weather conditions for riding 110 miles, that unfortunately wasn't the case on Sunday. What started out as a steady drizzle soon turned into a total downpour for the entire ride. That being said, there's still no place I'd rather be than riding the PMC, rain or shine.
Of course with the rain we don't have many photos from Sunday, but we do have this one that someone snapped as we made our way to the finish. Gives you a good sense of just how bad it was out there. We're talking cats and dogs people.
Once we got under the big-top tent we were able to take a few group shots.
Team Xaverian 2011: Missing from this photo are Sean and Greg, both of whom finished in Provincetown.
The 16 riders of Team Xaverian should raise well over $41,000 for Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. Job well done everyone!
The class of 96'ers [Thomas, myself and Jo Jo] and my folks and Erin and Matt.
Thanks again for all the support and donations this year and for your part in making the 2011 PMC so successful.
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