Obviously, preparing for the 150 mile ride is a lot of work and requires many practice miles. This website outlines my progress and has some photos from previous years’ rides. I did the ride in 2006 and 2007, but took 2008 off due to the birth of our second child (Eli). I’m very excited about getting back to the ride again this year.

New this year is GPS-tracking on my bicycle via the ham radio APRS Network (Automatic Packet Reporting System). A 10 watt VHF transmitter on the back of my bike sends the information to my residence, where the information is then relayed to the internet. My bicycle is listed as “AB0RE-4” on the map below. You can click on each of the red dots on the map to see the packet information which will show the date, time, speed, and approximate altitude at the time of transmission. (Note: the time is Zulu time, which is CST +6 hours.) These position “packets” are sent every two minutes while the tracking unit is turned on.

Also new this year is the use of “My Cycling Log” to track my training progress. I’d like to log around 1500-2000 miles this year in preparation for the 150 mile MS Ride, with a dozen or so 50-75 mile practice rides. My Cycling Log helps keep me focused on that goal (and keeps me honest :-). The My Cycling Log information is found below. Detailed ride information can be found by clicking the link just below the embedded application.

If you haven’t already, please visit my “Official” fund-raising page at the National MS Society’s website. On the page I have a brief explanation of what MS is and how the funds raised from this event are used. There is also a link to make an online donation, if you’d like, or the address to send a check to.

If you enjoy bicycling you should consider joining me on the ride this year – I’d love to have some company! The MS Society is also looking for volunteers to help out with the ride. From the MS Society’s Website you can register to do the ride or volunteer to help out with the ride. If you have any questions about the ride you’re welcome to contact me via email or telephone (507-829-5018).

Thanks for your support and for helping to end the devastating effects of MS!