In my mind the decision to stop at 2,198 miles at 02:20 somewhere in Ohio was simple though very painful. I did not believe that I was going to complete the race by 3 pm Friday. The many cumulative effects of my neck problem, including vision, nutrition and hydration and position on the bike leading to increased fatigue, were compounding with sleep deprivation to be overwhelming; meaning that to continue safely was impossible.

It had been a fantastic journey, with some amazing physical and emotional high and lows, and I did not want to destroy the memory of this, my body and my friendship with the crew in a desperate, potentially dangerous and fruitless struggle towards the finish.

The crew did a great job throughout. First and foremost, as volunteers they had all stepped up to make my participation in RAAM possible; for which I am immensely grateful. Before this race began I said to the crew that I hoped they would get as much out of it as I; seeing them work together and talking to them throughout the race and after I believe they have. For one they have certainly come to understand what an amazing event this is and to appreciate the fantastic spirit that exists between racers and teams from all over the world.

Together we have learned many lessons in RAAM 2008, at both a personal and technical level as they relate to a future racing campaign. Team management is paramount and I am grateful to Crew Chief Matt Zerafa for his enduring efforts to keep my race on track and for his words of confidence at my lowest ebb.

Of highs there can be know doubt that being sought out by two ladies, the first being treated for Leukemia and the second a sufferer with Neurofibromatosis (NF), as we passed though time stations in Kansas and Missouri carrying the message of MD Anderson’s Cancer Center stands to the fore. I am proud to have raced for Team “Making Cancer History” and hope that our continuing efforts in fundraising will have genuine impact on NF research, patient care, education and wellbeing at the Children’s Cancer Hospital and so in the lives of those such as our “Pedal Partner” Emily Parker who remains an inspiration to us all.

Finally, to the many sponsors that have supported this endeavor, I would like to say a huge thank you; your generous support makes everything possible!