It's been awhile since I posted here, but rest assured, I am busy working toward RAAM 2013. A priority lately has been working to extend my RAAM qualification, which is due to expire this coming October. To that end, I am competing in Race Across Oregon as a solo racer this coming weekend. I will need to finish that race within the 48 hour time limit to give me another two years of RAAM qualification. RAO will be a challenge for me. I rode 378 of the ~530 RAO miles in a two person mixed team in 2010, but riding solo is a whole new game. I don't feel as if I am adequately trained, but I rarely do. There is a saying among ultra cyclists that it is not the X miles but the 6" between the ears that makes or breaks you. I know I should be in better shape. I don't know how much of the problem is just the aging process, and how much is just not doing the work. But I'm hoping that toughness of the 6" between my ears will make up for the softness of my physical fitness. Today I spent preparing the support vehicle. I wired flashing lights, attached signage, wired a feed light and placed storage drawers. We had a team meeting tonight and went over details. Ready or not, the time is rapidly approaching to start the pedals spinning. It will be my most difficult RAO, but my most important. On paper it's tougher than Furnace Creek 508. About 25 miles longer with 5000 ft more climbing, yet still the same 48 hour limit. I think it's easier though. It's not as mentally tough to ride, the scenery is much less intimidating. You feel as if you're moving along, not the endless horizons of Mojave Desert or Death Valley. It's just a long bike ride through Oregon's hills. That is all it is.