Jeff Hernes

Tom Ett

It was a dark and stormy night. The cars were spitting out mud as they oozed their way into the Washington County fairgrounds. As we boarded the bus, we wondered just how wet things would get in our little tent atop Spirit Mountain in Duluth. As the rain splashed onto the windshield of the bus, we doubted the ability of our gear to keep us dry over the weekend...

Saturday morning, we awoke to a very foggy view. It was foggy, but not raining. A quick breakfast of pancakes and sausage, accompanied by the low roar of the still sleepy crowd, prepared us for the first leg of the ride.

As we rode out, I noticed several riders with shirts and signs dedicating their ride to a person in their life with MS. Whether or not it rained just didn't seem important now. It felt good to be a part of this crowd. We certainly didn't mind, however, when the weather stayed dry.

The riding on the first day was easy--the soft inclines on the Munger trail and the scenic beauty carried us on effortlessly at times. Coasting into Hinckley, we were greeted with cheers and the aroma of brats on the grill. Throughout the afternoon, different members of the team rode in, and we gathered for fun and fellowship. Bedtime came early, and we slept like babies until the early morning slap of the Port-a-Potty doors rang out.

The second day's ride started out on rather bumpy roads, but then eased onto a nice trail before too long. The clouds still lingered, but none were dropping any rain. As we reached the final leg of the ride near Stillwater, the hills seemed to grow before our eyes. Riders who were zipping along with ease began walking their bikes up hills. Fatigue had hit hard, but we were determined to finish. Encouraging words from fellow cyclists helped spur us onward to the end. The cheering at the finish line topped off a very nice weekend.

Let me tell you why I support the MS Society, and why I ask you to support it as well. Several years ago, I worked with some patients who suffered with MS. They were diagnosed and disabled in the prime of their lives, with children and families who depended on them. While the MS Society works towards prevention, cures, and effective treatment, they also help people live with MS. When a person is struck with MS, it is ever so important that they have the chance to live as normal a life as possible. The MS Society helps with adaptations and support. Their administrative costs are very low, and they make great use of volunteer services.

2003 Photo Gallery:

Saturday:

Tom speeding by. Tom's wife Libby sagged the second day because of a bad knee.

Jeff and Melissa, with John close behind. Note the heavy clothing for June. It never warmed up for Sunday either.

John and his large Rivendell.

Wesley and Wally, with Rachel behind

Jeff M. He had been riding an upright until Katie was forced to pull out because of a bad knee. He decided to try out the trike she was renting. She didn't ride on Sunday either, and he switched back to his diamond frame.

Sunday:

Tom, a little slower so the camera could get him. And so Jeff and Melissa and John could keep up. He later left us when we had to bike into a head wind for a few miles.

Jeff and Melissa, catching a little wind.

John with his peloton of strangers.

The Kalsow gang: Wally, Rachel, Warren, and Wesley.

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