LOTOJA 2008

LOTOJA 2008 was another epic event in our lives. It was another beautiful day for biking although a little chilly in the morning. Jon's goal was to beat his time from last year but it didn't quite turn out that way. He was happy, however, in being able to finish for the second time. Once again Julia was a great support and we could not have done it without her. Julia's brother Alan came to do the race this year after spending a summer of intense preparation. Julia's parents also were here to help with support and take in all of the activities of the day.  Tee and Dave were back for a second time and Julia's nephews, Mike and Brad where also there to help out with support.  It was a great day for everyone.

Getting a little ride in the day before the big race.

Preparing food the night before. Jon thought that he would once again try some potatoes. He said that he will not be doing potatoes next year.

The morning of the race. We all got up at about 4:30 -5:00 am to be ready for a 6:00 am start.

Here is Alan, Dave, Tee and Jon  ready to go.

Jon and Alan anxious to get going.

At the start. The Bishop that Jon serves with also did the race. He is in the Blue behind Jon. Also not seen is a neighbor Greg Carlin. They all started out together.  It was pitch black at 6:00 am so they had to have lights to start.

At the first feed zone in Preston. Jon recovered from banana overload last year and once again was stuffing them down this year.

The support crew waiting at Montpelier. From L to R: Lisa (Alan's wife), Julia on the phone, Mardi (Julia's mom), Brad and Michael (Julia's nephews). Thanks to Brad and Michael for there help and support. It was fun to have everyone there.

It was a rough year for Jon. In Montpelier he was not looking or feeling the greatest.

Trying to decided what to eat before heading out again.

At the top of Salt River Pass, also known as the King of the Mountain climb at mile 110. Jon was not looking good. He said later that he really thought about throwing in the towel at that point but after getting some nutrition (Pepsi) he pushed on.

After Salt River Pass Jon got a second wind. Here he is biking up the Snake River Canyon on the final leg. He once again hit the wall at Hoback Junction and it was slow going for the last 20 miles.

At the finish with Greg, Jon and Alan. Congrats to Alan for finishing first among the four who started together. At the end Jon was just about an hour longer than last year. He says that it is motivation to come back for more next year.

Here is Jon with his good friend Mike Broadbent who got him started in cycling two years ago.

Thanks to all who helped.

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!