Cherohala Challenge by Neal Bowers

The following was a Cherohala Challenge ride report sent out to the gang as an email by Neal Bowers as a number of us who did not ride in the Cherohala Challenge anticipated the news of not only a challenging course but also a very hot day. It is great to share the success stories of those who I am privileged to ride with and to hear such good news.

To my fellow B-Group team members:

It my honor and pleasure to recommend both Nancy Alexander and Glenn Hittel for the much coveted B-Group "Legion of Merit with Silver Cluster".

Nancy Alexander: Showed total disregard for her personal safety by leading a group of mostly younger riders from Rest Stop #1 for nearly 5 miles at a 19-21 mph. At the NC/Tenn line her average (after the Dragon's Tail) was over 17.5 mph. The Tail of the Dragon climbs were littered with destroyed bikes and egos of passed riders. Although twice wounded by muscle cramps she fought the unyielding heat and 20 mph westerly winds to complete the 117 mile ride in just under 8 hours of seat time. At the top of Santeetlah Gap she was given the opportunity for a photo under the elevation sign - but just growled "Don't have time boys, I have a ride to complete".

Glenn Hittel: Threw caution to the winds to ride with the front leading group led by the whip-cracking, merciless "Paul DeShane of the SS". Glenn upheld the unblemished B-Group honor to stay with the lead riders until the dreaded "Tail of the Dragon". In order to maintain his place in the peloton, he skipped two much needed Rest Stops which put him in a dangerous water shortage situation. Forging on, he encountered unrelenting heat and winds but still completed the ride in approximately 7 hours of seat time. Finally, instead of seeking the creature comforts of food, beverage and A/C, he waited to greet and congratulate the other B-Group riders on their personal victories.

In addition I would like to recommend both Bill Adkins and Neal Bowers to receive the "Why Do I Do This" letter of commendation for their multiple event rides. Both Bill and Neal have 3 completed Cherohala's, with possible more for Bill, the committee is currently checking past riding records for verification. Bill completed this year's event with an injured right knee. Although given the opportunity to be Sagged in, he declined in order to finish under his own power.

I must say with all humility what an honor it was to have shared the roads with such great riding patriots as Nancy, Glenn and Bill. For all those who could not make it, you missed a soul stirring experience - not soon to be forgotten.

Your obedient servant and riding buddy -

R. Neal Bowers