The night before Day 1, I asked Rabiah (my housemate) to wish me “tale winds” (at mile 40) of Day 1.

Annually, I travel to the Cow Palace with 4th Year, AIDS Life Cyclist, “Don Colnago.” At 4:30am, Don Colnago and Toni (his friend)arrived at my house. I jumped in the Toyota Tundra-2002 and we travelled to opening ceremonies.

Don Colnago =

Personal Statistics:
Origin: Great Britian – Darfort Kent, England
Present Location: Reseda, CA 91335
Height: 5’1.5″
Occupation: Roofing Contractor
Road Bike Frame Model: Colnago C40 Carbon
Groupo: Campagnolo Record 10 Speed – 2 Ring – Compact Gearing
Age: 50
Favorite Pro Cyclist: Mario Tripalenia
Worst thing on the ride: Sprinklers

If Don Colnago had one thing to say to the world:
” . . .probably something like be courteous to your neighbor and everybody try to work together ..basically the same thing as the aids ride ..everyone gets together and helps each other …that’s what the world needs. . . . “

If Don Colnago had one thing to say to Oprah Winfrey:
” . …. get together with the aids foundation and try to promote it more . ..”.

At approx. 11:00am Day 1, as I ate my lunch, I looked up at that next hill. At that point, I noticed that I would have a “tale wind” .. the wind at my back!

Quickly, I packed up my things ….Told Mr. Colnago goodbye …..And, I rode an approx. 33 mile “non-stop” to the finish line.

After arriving into camp. I met up with “the first rider of the day,” Kyle Rich (not that anyone was counting).

As an endurance cyclist, it is important (within the first 2 hours after completion of your ride) to provide your body with proteins, carbohydrates, electrolytes, fat, and water. So, Kyle and I went to a nearby local cafe:

The Farm
Bakery, Cafe & Gifts
6790 Soquel Drive
Aptos, California, CA. 95003
Tel: 831-684-0266
Fax: 831-689-0241
farmbakery@sbcglobal.net

The Farm had the characteristics of a San Francisco cafe (ex. outdoor seating, great coffee drinks, a beautiful ham & cheese sandwich)…yet, it was a bit different (smile) .. .

I spoke with Andria, Chayne, Sancho, Laura, and Tyler. And, I was so completely flatter by their words of praise. They spoke fondly of the AIDS Life Cycle Event and supported the efforts and courage of the 1,618 cyclist & 400 crew members. A few even expressed an interest in participating in AIDS Life Cycle #5 – 2006. ….

(It was nice to see the younger generation’s support).

click here to send “The Farm” a shout out and a thanks for their support

Anyone who supports the AIDS Life Cycle Event gets the “Tony Eason’s thumbs up.” I encourage you to stop in Aptos, CA. and visit “The Farm.” And tell the gang, I’ll be back to see them in 2006. And . . . .the pics are on the way!

Cow Palace to Cabrillo College, Aptos, California – 84.4 miles

Weather:
Mostly Sunny
High: Mid 60’s Low: 50
Humidity: 58%
Winds: West – up to 30 mph
UV Index: Very High

Route Hours:
6:30am – 7:00pm.

Rest Stop 1 – 6.8 miles
Water Stop – 21.5 miles
Rest Stop 2 – 31.8 miles
Lunch – 40.7 miles
Rest Stop 3 – 61.1 miles
Rest Stop 4 – 73.9 miles

Breakfast Menu:
Pasty at Opening Ceremonies

Lunch Menu:
Turkey Avocado w/Harvarti on a Croissant
Thai Veggie on Whole Wheat
Vegetable Cup
Assorted Chips
Apple or Pear
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie

Dinner Menu:
Chicken Parmesan
Meatballs
Vegetarian Chicken Patty
Vegetarian Meatballs
Traditinal Caesar Salad
Spaghetti w/Marinara Sauce
Italian blen Vegetables
Garlic Bread Sticks
Assorted Cheesecake

Entertainment:
San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus