Pre-RAAM 2009 in California

I flew into San Diego early on Thursday. I met up with Daniel Snyder at the Denver airport and hung with him. Daniel is a nutritionist, and really cool guy. He has similar opinions about people with diabetes being encouraged to eat carbohydrates as I do. Generally makes no sense to encourage someone who has carbohydrate metabolism issues to eat carbohydrates. 

After a Starbucks fix, we headed out to the meeting place where our team van would pick us up for the trip up to Carlsbad. There we met up with Debbie Walsh. Everyone was excited to be there, and ready for the race to begin. 

The van showed up with Tom Schuler driving. We loaded my bike, and were literally off to the races. The ride to the hotel has some exciting moments due to traffic, and close calls. Crazy California drivers! 

I don't think the scope of this operation hit me until we pulled into the hotel parking lot. There I saw 4 RVs and several mini-vans. Wow, this is real! 

I set about assembling my bike, then assisting with other tasks as I as able. 

Friday morning was another early day. So much to do. 

I got a call from Patty telling me that she is pregnant!  WooHoo! What great news to start such an EPIC race and a wonderful father's day surprise! 

We had to take all the vehicles, riders, and equipment down to the race start for RAAM safety inspection. Of course we passed with flying colors. 

I met up with Bernie, an online friend from bikejournal.com. Bernie was riding for JDRF's 8 tandem team. Was nice to meet him, and visit a bit about RAAM etc... 

We all headed down to the mandatory RAAM pre-race meeting. All the teams were introduced, and some of the rules were reviewed. 

After the meeting it was back to the hotel. A quick ride to the beach and back. Then a full team meeting with both Team Type 1 and Team Type 2. Dave Eldridge reviewed many many details. I don't know how he was able to keep it all straight! 

Off to bed. Try to sleep. Nerves are high. Tomorrow, RACE START!