Road Raves

Read what participants, crew and volunteers are saying about AdventureCORPS' events.

Furnace Creek 508

2007 Race

I just wanted to send out a note to thank you, your crew, volunteers and everyone else that had a hand in putting on and supporting this magnificent event. Words just can't express the great experience that we (I guess I'm speaking for the Sphinx) had. You and your crew demonstrated the utmost in professionalism and care for all riders and the space that we covered and touched. Rarely, does the average person have an opportunity to explore this great expanse in California, and for us it's our backyard. If it weren't for this race, I potentially would've missed some great local landscape. Also, all the other teams out there were magnificent. None of us needed (luckily) support out on the road, but I felt (as a rider) that if I was in any kind of duress that any of the support vehicles would have helped me just like we would've helped someone else. Yes, this is a race, but it seems like the comradery and eagerness prevails. Anyway, I just thought you should hear it from another person that this race really makes bicycling / racing / adventure (you put the descriptive words) a better experience! THANKS! - Allen Yee, Team Sphinx

The race was spectacular this year. Perfect weather for me ... nice and cool. The stars were amazing going to Shoshone! Thanks again for an awesome event!!! - Isabelle Drake ... aka Wrentit

We had such a great time doing the 508! We hope to be invited again next year. Your crew was FANTASTIC! - Cheers, Gloria Castro, Team Wolf Fish

What an event! The FC508 was another awesome experience. We are all thankful for the hard work you put into this event. It has become a part of our lives and will, hopefully, be involved in it one way or another for many years to come. - Thank you again, John Lauer, Team Cuckoo Bees

This is far and away the best ultra event I've had the privilege to take part in. In 5 yrs I've had a chance to ride 2X and crew 3X. From either side of the windshield, it is a challenge and an adventure. Thanks for making and keeping this the epic event that has become. It would be great to come back & pedal it someday. Thanks again for holding this event. - Jim "Shrike" Kern, crew for recumbent soloist Godzilla

Chris-I just wanted to take time out and thank you for putting on such a special event. Despite not being able to ride in it this year, I had just as much fun crewing. You and your people did a great job. I could tell you've been part of this event for 30 races. Your heart gives it away. Thanks for the very special weekend! I'll see you next year. - Ride and smile. Gary "Nutcracker" Franck

Although I dropped out at TS 7 I just wanted to say it was a great ride. I've never dropped out of a ride due to not being able to eat so I was really disappointed. This was my second year and I can honestly say there isn't anything I would change about it. Considering the distance and the amount of things that could go wrong you and your "crew" do an outstanding job. Thanks for a great ride and I'll see you next year ( if you let me in : ) )!! - Mike Bridgsche AKA Collared Lizard

We just got home after a long journey, our heads fulfilled with everlasting memories about an exiting event, wonderful people we met at the starting line, on the road and at the finish line! It was a pleasure to ride my bike at fc508 and i am sure that (like my countryman Schwarzenegger once said) I'll be back!! Well, I have got a lot of photos, media coverage and a race report on my website www.franzpreihs.at ! (but in german only) Once again, it was a pleasure to meet you and your stuff! We are looking forward to see you again soon!
- Best wishes from HOUSE MOUSE and CREW (Franz Preihs, Austria)

Thank you for putting on such a terrific event. This race definitely ranks as one of my favorites -- along with my first Ironman, which will always be special -- and racing at the World Championships. It provided motivation for me to get back on my bike after
breaking my collarbone...and, quite simply, I had a great time out there. So much fun that I hope to come back and do it solo next year. :-) - Best regards & Thanks again for putting on such a great race. - Donna Nice (2X Black Panther)

Thanks for putting on a great race and providing a fantastic experience. For a couple of rookie riders and a rookie crew, we didn't make tooooo many mistakes and had an awesome time. We're already making a list of "lessons learned" for the next one and one way or another (either sagging or racing) will be around for next year. - Mike "Black Panther #2" Pyle

Thank you for putting on such an awesome event! My crew and I had a great time and really enjoyed being involved with the 508. My local paper ran a story about my ride at the 508. Again thanks for puttin on such a great event. See you "out there". - Hugh "Dall's Porpoise" Gapay

Thanks for putting on another outstanding race. I tell my crew that the 508 unfolds itself and they find it to be true. This is only because it is so well organized and produced. You and your crew are simply the best! Also, thanks for all that you do and for keeping us safe during the 508 with well thought out saftey rules. Thanks again for a great race on a great course. I'm looking forward to next year. - Sean Crow Cuddihy

We had a great time in the 508. My crew was fantastic. We won't forget it for a long time. I look forward to receiving my race jersey in December. That was my dream race. I decided a year ago that I was going to do it. I told Eric the Ostrich that he was one of my main pieces of motivation for the event. I have an excellent photo of me standing with him at the bike inspection the last time I was there (crewing), when we both had blond hair....his with 508 stamped on it in blue. I am going to send him a copy as it is so good: I was so thrilled to see him again.(funny what motivates you eh?) It was also great to meet Cindi....she puts a lot into the race. Please thank her for me. It will take a long time for me to calm down and get back to normal....the 508 was AWESOME. Thank you. - Ann Woolridge, wolf spider from the UK

Had a GREAT time at the race! Thanks so much to you and all the volunteers for making it such a wonderful experience! I had better get my race resume ready early to be able to get in on the 2008 festivities!! Thanks again for such a great endurance race! I am already spreading the praises! - Sara Kay Carrell, Team 2x Sea Dragon

I wanted to say thanks, for letting me be apart of this amazing one-of-a kind race! I felt very, very, very lucky to be in the Furnace Creek 508, and known as the kid that started with the ‘jansport school backpack, gym shorts, and mountain bike shoes’. I loved riding through the night, loved the desert atmosphere, and loved being around other ultra athletes like me. Randomly, I must add, I thought that the organic cotton shirts were pretty awesome. I heard about organic cotton, and now I own a sweet kick ass Furnace Creek 508 shirt, printed on organic cotton!

Well, I would like to share how I went down to my DNF grave. (Click here for her full story.) Until the next ultra race. Thanks again for letting me be apart of this race. - Deanna Aye-Aye Adams, rookie soloist

I have run a lot of marathons and completed a lot of cycling ultra distance events, but nothing came close to comparing with the adventures we enjoyed for the Furnace Creek 508. I will return to do it again in one or two years with the goal to set a new course record for the 60+ two man team. - Franz Kelsch, Team 2x Prairie Dog

We had an all-rookie 2-man team and an all-rookie crew, and thanks to the great advice on your website, we had a wonderful time. Although we only did the 2-man relay, it still is one of the great athletic endeavors in my lifetime, and I found the entire experience exhilerating.

I had a chance to chat with you while I was riding Stage 2 and one of your other workers while climbing Salsbury Pass on Stage 4. I really enjoyed the care and encouragement that you and all the race officials exhibited. You all do an incredible job and put on an incredible event.

Finally, this event sure seems to attract very nice people. Virtually every time I passed a support vehicle, be it on the road if I was overtaking a rider or pulled to the side when they were playing leapfrog, I received encouragement from the crew. That always brought a smile to my face and reminded me I was actually participating in a race and not just another ride. - Best regards, Jon "Iron Horse" Lieberg

Thanks again for allowing our Team IronHorse to compete in the 508. We know that you had a lot of applications to choose from, but we are grateful for the opportunity to compete. My teammate and crew did not know what they were getting into, but I did promise them an adventure. We did have an adventure!! It was a great weekend.

It was nice being around the people associated with the 508. When you tell them that the weekend following the 508 you are going to run a marathon they simply give you "the nod". It isn't the typical reaction of most humans - "you gotta be crazy". Or even other athletes who would reply "you gotta be crazy." Those adventurous souls simply give the nod of approval and understanding of what it takes to "be out there". - Jim "IronHorse" Yanoschik On the Journey to Being Out There!!!

I've been meaning to write you to let you know how much the Capybara team enjoyed the race. It was a great adventure for us, which we cannot stop talking about. We're all looking forward to trying it again next year, perhaps as two 2x teams. Kudos to you and your staff for putting on such a great event! - Thanks, Mindy Capybara Eiermann

2006 Race

What an incredible race and what an amazing adventure.

My eyes say thanks for the desert landscape and sights of the traveling circus that is the 508. My ears say thanks for the nervous chatter at the start, the silence of Death Valley under a full moon to the cheers of encouragement from crew members. My taste buds thank you for every pack of energy gel that tasted like gourmet dining and every sip of water that was better then the last. However, my back side isn't talking to anyone...

Oh, and congratulations on the best magic trick I've ever seen. You turned Twenty Nine Palms into America's most beautiful city for a day. Ask any finisher as they crested the final rise that offered the first view of Twenty Nine Palms if that wasn't the most beautiful city they had ever seen.

The 508 was lots of training, major planning, a chunk of money and well worth all of it. I will be highly recommending the 508 to my friends and clients.

You caught up to me on Townes Pass at a point when I was having stomach issues and if I was less then cordial I apologize, I was just trying not to puke in front of you. By the way the photos you snapped of me at that point are quite funny.

Thanks again, a fantastic event!! - Be well, Ashton Johnson, Two-Man Team Prairie Falcon

Wanted to give you a couple of days to catch your breath after the race. Great race, and thanks for the hard work to make it great.

I also wanted to thank Shanna Armstrong (Dik-Dik) and her team for the help they provided us during the race. We had missed the Badwater turn and were moving down the road when Shanna’s support vehicle comes racing up to us and flags us down to tell us we had missed the turn. As we turned around, we could see Shanna’s lights in the distance stopped, waiting for her support crew to return. The ten to fifteen minutes she lost to help us was greatly appreciated, and we’re glad to see it didn’t affect her first place finish. It’s hard to loose even fifteen minutes when you’re only at the midpoint of a long race and can’t see what the upcoming miles will bring.

Before, during, and after the race we saw a number of situations where a team or an individual was taking the time to help someone else. This is what true sportsmanship is and it reflects well on you and your team who has done a great job of attracting this type of competitor.

Thanks again for a great race, and thanks to Dik-Dik and the many teams which make this race what it is. - Lance Martini, Team Gray Fox

I just wanted to thank your for putting on an amazing race this year. As a rookie (team Platypus) we had a great time riding through the desert and thought everything was really well organized. Hopefully, we'll be back, and possibly some day solo.

Anyhow, thanks again Chris, and thanks for letting us be part of this amazing event. I'll never forget being alone in the desert with my bike under the moonlight - John Heiss

I want to tell you that I am so satisfied with how you and your staff ran "the 508". I have wanted to do this race since I first starting doing Ultras in 2003 and heard of this incredibly difficult race from more veteran Ultra cyclists.

I am very thankful for the webcast. My family and friends were able to follow me throughout the weekend. My co-workers, I work at Nytro, a bike shop in Encinitas, posted pictures, downloaded from your site, around the shop with "Go George" and "Go Vireo". This of course prompted questions from customers of "what's this about?". And yes they able to worry when I was missing in action reporting in to a time station because of stomach issues I had all of Saturday.

Your organization of the website for this year is so professional and easy to find results and pictures. You had the results posted in what seems to be immediately. I will definitely come back to do this race again. Thank you for providing the course, the "support" and the adventure of "the 508"! - George A. Vargas ("Red-Eyed Vireo")

Thank you for a great race again! I'm proud and exhilarated to be able to a call myself a Furnace Creek 508 Champion. I'll see you next fall. (-: - Sincerely, Michael "Alpine Ibex" Emde

Thank you and congratulations to you as well on another successful event. By the way, that was the best goodie bag I've ever gotten... Beter than Ironman, RAAM or any other event :)

Thanks again, and I hope to see you all next year. - Andres J. Caicedo, Two-Man Team Red Kangaroo

Thanks for putting on this race that's equal parts good and evil. Maybe with time, my memory will repress the evil parts and I'll only have good thoughts for the race.

Thanks again, and all kidding aside, the race was awesome! You put on a good event. - Vikki Appel, Four-Woman Team Swallow

Thanks so much for putting on such an awesome event. I am totally hooked on your organization. WAY WAY WAY cool event, teams and all around awesome adventure. - Lissette Baker, Four-Woman Team Swallow

Thanks for another great event. We really had a blast!

I'm again really impressed by how dedicated you are to your event and the riders. What an epic event. The relay format was super fun but still very, very hard!  - All the best, Paul Skilbeck, Two-Man Team Red Kangaroo

This is a letter to say thank you.

I'm a friend of Vinnie Tortorich aka Pound Puppy. I know of your company only because of him. When he registered for the 508 he wanted to race on behalf of a group that needed help financially. I've been working with an animal welfare organization, as a volunteer for years and he generously dedicated his race to that organization, the Lange Foundation. He's a huge animal lover and so am I. It is because of the Pound Puppy's race at the Furnace Creek 508 that we were able to work together and raise funds for dogs and cats that so desperately need it. I can not thank you enough for providing the venue for us to do that. The Furnace Creek 508 is a wonderful event and I admire the dedication that it takes to organize it. I hope it continues and grows for many years.

Thank you.  - Kind regards, Tressa Lucas

Chris, just a quick e-mail to say thanks for organizing a great event. Your hard work and planning made the race an incredible experience for all of us! Also, our fundraising total to date for CAF is at $15,000. See you next year. - Thanks again, Kip Grossman, Two-Man Team African Swamp Rat

Thank you again for an awesome cycling weekend! The scenery was amazing and the course was very challenging. This was mine and Pete's first attempt at a 2-person race, and we both feel that it's easier to just ride the whole thing solo. We struggled with the abrupt starts and stops with no warming up or cooling down, which caused our legs to stiffen.

We did find out that we enjoyed the leap-frogging and even had a good time doing it! You should see the video we made from the "Kitten cam." Hysterical!

One of the high points for me was in stage 4. We had a few issues that kept us from being real fluid at our transition from TS 3 to 4, and we watched several other teams come and go while we stayed there. So Pete told me I needed to pass 8 people/teams to regain where we were among all the riders.

All I could see in the darkness of the desert were the flashing caution lights of other riders ahead of me. One by one I began to pass teams and solo riders. By the time I got to the time station, I had passed 11 groups! What a momentum builder that was! I got the opportunity to briefly speak to each person and say "hi" to their crew driver and realized that not everyone was as cheerful as I was. ;o)

I'm going to write up a story about our experiences and send it to you. Thanks again for such a great event. All the extras really made it a special races (the pre-race meeting, medals, t-shirts, goody bags, photos, audio interviews, webcasting, professional staff, etc).

See you "out there" sometime...that is if I don't sell my bike beforehand. ;o) - Take care, Wendy Gardiner, Mixed Two-Person Team Kitten

On behalf of the Mongrel Dogs, thanks again for another great race!! You guys do a great job putting this together. The logistical organization and support was terrific. The spirit of the race is also great as it is a serious race, but everyone is out to have a good time and not take it too seriously. - Todd Wexman, Four-Man Team Mongrel Dogs

In the process of locating a solo racer, we had the privilege of driving the length of Red Mtn Road from the Hwy 178 to Hwy 395 and back. We are extremely impressed with all of the racers, pace cars, crews, and even one of the race officials. All of the pace cars were courteous and moved over when we approached from behind, the racers stayed fairly close to the shoulder. The markings on the SAG vehicles were very visible and the names for the racers are an awesome idea. Thanks for the cycling inspiration, so much so we are going to attempt to put together a four person team for next year.

Thanks to all who are a part of this exciting cycling adventure. - Bill and Carolyn Nye, Jen's Fans (Fast Rabbit)

2005 Race

You do an amazing job keeping the fire alive and burning for so many of us who love the challenge. This years race will be another of many journeys that we all share. Keep up the great work that you and all your staff do. See you in October. - Joe Petersen, Four-Man Team Hammerhead

Tout d'abord félicitations pour l'organisation de cette superbe "course" , c'était pour moi une première à vélo et cela a été un réel plaisir de découvrir à nouveau une aussi belle région. - Sportivement, Patrick Candé (Golden Eagle)

I wanted to thank you for a very well run event. The thing I noticed most, and I mention it to everyone, is your personal passion for the event. You're out there on the course, you're talking to all the competitors, you're shooting photos (and getting them posted quickly), etc. - Sincerely, Doug "Polar Bear" Patterson

I participated this year in the 508 as part of the Mongrel Dogs team.

Just wanted to write you a quick note to thank you for an amazing race. It was an incredible experience, in many ways other-worldly. The organization was terrific. I especially liked the fact that you didn't treat the deal too seriously and were willing to have fun with it with the totems and such. The staff of officials and volunteers was really great! My only complaint was that there were a few other really rude teams who actually beat us, the nerve!!! I presume they won't be invited back!! - Todd Wexman, Four-Man Team Mongrel Dogs

I can only imagine how draining it all is, I know for sure that no-one could work that hard unless they are truly committed. So thank you for what you bring to the event. - With Kindest Regards, Paul "Muddy Mudskipper" McKenzie

Thank You for this great race! You did an excellent job! I had very much fun on the road, inspite of the strenuous course. I have participated in many endurance multisport events since 21 years, but the 508 was the biggest, I have ever done. You live in a fantastic country and landscape, that is totally different to Europe. - Yours, Gerhard "Marmot" Dobmeier, Germany

Chris, here is another of what must be a flood of email thanking you for your efforts at organizing the 508. The race was perfectly set up by you and your very able staff. I am going to spread the word on the east coast about what a great and beautiful event this is. The scenery along the route defies words. Our crew had a blast and it gave me some quality time with my dad, who moved to Arizona when I was 17. I hope I can be allowed to race again next year. - John "Yellowjacket" D'Elia

I really appreciate your hosting the race. This has really become a big league event in the years I’ve been associated with it. I’m still high as a kite about finishing! - Kevin "Griffin" Griffin

Thanks for organizing such a terrific bike race! For an event like this to operate so smoothly there must be a huge effort happening behind the scenes and it is obvious that you dedicate a ton of time to pulling the whole thing off so well.....and we really appreciate all your hard work. We all (Western Wood Pewees) had a great time and look forward to coming back next year. - Bill Zimmerman, Four-Man Team Western Wood Pewee

Experiencing the 508 last weekend was incredible....and working with Dan Dominy made it even more memorable. Coming into your racing environment without much knowledge of the bike racing genre, I was thoroughly taken with the camaraderie of the staff, riders, and crew. I will admit to my adrenaline cruising at high speed while Dan and I trekked through the course chasing down riders. The unmatched scenery provided a backdrop of color and light that heightened the drama of this event. I was totally into the race ambiance from start to finish, and could easily become a race junkie given the opportunity.

Thanks so much for making it happen. I can see this is a personal labor of love for you and knowing how many positives you generate within the racing community and your charity must make all your efforts worth the sacrifice. Sometimes we don't see the broad picture as our vision is limited within our working boundaries...but I could see from the entire spectrum of those involved a real positive tide of good that will go beyond the race itself. - Thanks again, Lana Corless, 508 video staff

Thanks for another great year of 508 racing! After last year's punishing winds, I wasn't sure whether or not I'd tempt fate again by coming back...sure am glad I did. In addition to putting on a wonderful race, you also ordered some very nice weather this year :)! Thanks much...and thanks again for a great race. Huge thanks to all of your race staff too - they were wonderful! - Jennie Phillips, Tandem "Relucent Phoenix" with Craig Robertson

I live in Italy; We met some years ago during RAAM's. I think into years 2000 or 2001? Always, I watched AdventureCORPS and his events. I had some races and one PACTour done so far. But sadly, I never entered FC508 due logistics and lack of a skillful crew.....

Soon or later I hope to race "my" FC508. My cycling friend and RAAM finisher "Nico VALSESIA" (who placed behind Ultralegend "Peter Pop" on one edition) is encouraging me to sign for 2006. Right now I had no plans for the oncoming season. Will see. I never been to Death Valley, in such places as Baker, Shoshone or 29palms! I could never imagine and feel the sensations while racing/ride into Desert terrain and Hot weather!

Every year, the ever-growing field is a clear statement of how well directed and organized is the race! FC508 could be easily one of the Best Ultracycling events in the U.S.! A pity not to take part in it! Even as a Crewmember. - Sincerely, Luigi Barisone, Italy

I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for that most wonderful and painful growth experience last weekend. For years I thought about it and was afraid to try it. Now I know why! Seriously, it was a great experience and I complement you on a well run event. As a team participant in 2002, I was caught up in the excitement of the race itself. As a solo this year,, I got a different view of the dedication and commitment of so many individuals like yourself and all the crews that make our dreams as solos come true. I may never be able to do RAAM but I will be back for more punishment in the future. - Sincerely, Doug "Polar Bear" Patterson

2004 Race

I would like to thank you for another great FC508! We (Team Tweety Bird) had a great time, and truly appreciate all the hard work that you go through to put this on. I look forward to being there again next year - hopefully as rider, maybe as crew, maybe as volunteer if you need help. - Regards, Jack 'Blackbird" Bochsler, crew for Tweety Bird

There is a part of the movie "City Slickers" where the three stars are riding along on their horses and one asks the other what was his best day ever...despite the DNF, the Saturday of the race rates right up there with my best days. Coming from Northern Canada, bringing three friends, racing with some of the best long distance riders, in a very well run race, through spectacular scenery.... definitely one of the best days. Funny how things go, on the ride back to LA after DNFing, my crew chief told me, that because of my outlook on things etc, I would probably get some value out of reading one of Steve Ilg's books....later that night in the hotel room we see that he was in the race....! Like I said, funny how things go. Thanks for a great race, will definately be back next year. Entire support crew signed on that very day for next year. Like I am telling everyone up here, I have to go back, I have some unfinished business in the desert. - Bob "Loch Ness Monster" Lees

Just wanted to say again how good the race was. I think you really stepped up the tone of the event with the pre-race presentation. The entire program added the "epic" dimension that the riders know is out there, but that many of the rest of the audience are not aware of. The theater venue, the music, the video, the personal presentations...wow, it was like "The AdventureCorps Two Wheel Oscars!" Anyway, we had it all... Pre-race enthusiasm, fast riding, slow riding, crew/rider miscommunication, slow riding, rider implosion, slow riding, rider resurrection, slow riding, crew panic, slow riding and then towards the end, we had some slow riding, followed by a minute of post-race enthusiasm and finally unconsciousness. A perfect weekend. - Thanks, Jeff "Saluki" Stevenson

Awesome race! It was my first 508 (and my first race, for that matter...), and I'll definitely be back. It was well-organized, well-staffed, and Team Serval had a fantastic experience. My only regret is that I have to wait a whole year to ride it again. As Rick Akita Ashabranner put it to me today, I'm hard-core hooked. Again, thanks for a great race!! Congrats to you and your staff. - Jennifer Swenson, Four-Woman Team Serval

Just a quick note to thank you for the great stories and photos posted on the 508 website. You’ve provided a great way for family and friends to follow the race and enjoy the cyclists’ progress. This year seems to have been an especially grueling one, judging by the number of DNFs. I did the 508 a few years back and hope to cycle in the event at least one more time. My 508 jersey is beginning to show some wear and tear, so I may need to earn a new one. Again, thanks for organizing the 508 and for your support of endurance cycling. - Sincerely, Brennis Lucero-Wagoner, Team Yodeling Plankton

Hello! Fennec Fox here! Thanks for a great weekend! I feel like I got the best value for entry fee dollar of all the riders out there. Thanks! - Michael Fennec Fox Fox

Chris, I'm sure I speak for the entire Javelina team in saying thanks for putting on a great show. Wow, we are just starting to understand the enormity and significance of the ride and what we were able to accomplish!! I hope to be there next year... maybe with a two-man team (i.e., Javelinito!) - Cheers, Michael Young, Four-Man Team Javelina

I've done A LOT of racing in my life but this last weekend and this team ranks right at the top. It exceeded my expectations. I did my best to keep an open mind and go with whatever chi flow the team provided...I believe I can speak for the other three in that no one was disappointed with anyone's efforts. The new team format is really interesting when you are crewing for each other with no official crew—just yourselves. For a last minute team, we really worked well together on the road. - Ron Jones, Four-Man Team Sasquatch

It was an epic race, one that I don't regret and will never forget. I hope to be back next year. Thanks for continuing the good work! - Dan "Crane" Crain

Hey Chris, great job! This was my first time crewing (or even having anything to do with an even like this) and I was amazed at how well it was run. You guys did a killer job. I can definitely say I will be back next year to crew for the Lemur again! Thanks again and I'll see you next year! - Steven Dowling Jr.

Just wanted to say thanks for organizing such a memorable weekend. Even though our finishing time was somewhat "glacial" we all had a great time and are already talking about next year. Keep up the good work. - Regards, Bill "Freight Train" Zimmerman, Four-Man Team Western Wood Pewee

Thanks again for organizing such a great event—it was an amazing experience for all of us, and it's clear that the organization and attention to detail from you and all of the volunteers made things go very smoothly.

Once things have calmed down a bit for y'all, we were wondering if it might be helpful for riders/crew to send notes to the Park Service letting them know how much we appreciate them getting the road open/repaired in time for the race? If so, let us know—we'd be glad to help provide positive feedback. - Cheers, Colleen Shannon/David Moore, crew for Desert Tortiose

Hi Chris, what an epic this year's 508 was. The toughest of them all. I am glad I was able to finish. As they say " Pain is finite, DNF is forever." - Thanks again, Peter Penguin Pop

Badwater Ultramarathon

2007 Race

I don't know if you will get this note before Badwater. I know that you have one or two (or a thousand) things to attend to, but I like to just let you know how much I appreciate all you do to put on this race. The organization and publicity you establish is non-paralled. Your professionalism is amazing. And you do it all with a tone of fun and joy in exploring the difficult and undiscovered.

Thank you.

I look forward to seeing you again on Sunday. I look forward to my 8 am start. I look forward to seeing you again at the Portals. - Nikki Seger

Dear ladies and gentlemen, thank you for this wonderful site about the Badwater Ultra Marathon. The Webcast is amazing. Sitting in front of my Computer in Germany and watching the slide show about the 6.00 am. start feels like beeing right in the middle of Death Valley (I have been there 10 years ago). My thoughts are with Peter Meyer (a runner from Germany) whose wife is a friend of mine. I will check the race results as often as I can and I hope he will be able to finish the race. Thanks again for this wonderful Webcast. Give my kind gegards to Mr. Meyer, if you can. I think about him and all the other running heroes. - Andrea from Germany

Hello! This is just to let you know how much I am enjoying your webcast this year. Amazing how professional this got! Particularly the time splits table with the participants' fotos just a click away. GREAT job!! However, it seems I need to increase bandwith, since interviews, webcam
and website are running concurrently on my lame PC. I am also getting into arguments with my son for blocking the PC for hours already (I suggested he better goes running now...)

Keep up the great work!!! Greetings from Austria --- also to Gerhard Lustkandl - hope he
finishes well!!! Here it is currently raining (if you still can image how this feels like ...) - Werner

Just wanted to let you guys know how awesome of a job you are doing covering the Badwater Ultra. Our friend Jamie Donaldson is doing it, and we are checking out pictures from just hours ago on your web page from here at work. Thanks for all the coverage! - Thanks, Casey

First let me say that I enjoyed every aspect of the 2007 Badwater. Although, I had a "DNF" it takes nothing away from my enjoyment of the event. What amazes me most is how "you" and your staff made "me" feel like one of the family. I truly felt special among the big dogs that were out there. With all that you have to do as RD for the race, your care and consideration for the individual runner (no matter what our capabilities are) stand out front by far. Thank you again for the Badwater experience. Hopefully, I can qualify to be accepted again. - James Moore, 2007 runner number 64

I just wanted to let you know that you did an amazing job on covering the Kiehl's Badwater Ultramarathon! My cousin, Danny Westergaard, ran it for his first time and I was able to follow his progress from my computer in Virginia. You allowed me to feel like I was at the event. The pictures and results/time splits update allowed me to know that he was doing well and I was able to root for him! I have never experienced anything so well planned out and organized! You ALL made it possible for me to be part of my my cousins' personal goals and accomplishments! I want to thank you! I will always remember this race and I am sure many more races to come! - Thanks for everything, Jennifer

There are no words that I can type that could thank you enough for everything with regard to Badwater. From start to finish, the event is a first-class organization. Kudos to you and your hard working staff on producing one of the finest races on the planet. My own race exceeded my 35-hour expectations...understandable, I guess, considering the conditions. But let there be no doubts as to the difficulty inherent in this event. It is without compare in the running universe. I can't tell you enough how magical my experience was at Badwater, and I think that we - the collective group of Badwater athletes - really owe you a debt of gratitude. - Greg Pressler

I just wanted to THANK YOU for letting me be part of such an amazing event! I’ve been in a lot of races, but have never felt anything like this! Badwater is a magical event. Now I see why you call it the Badwater Family—that’s the only thing that got me up Mt. Whitney! People were so amazing to me! Thanks again for putting on such an amazing event! I learned so much! - Jamie Donaldson

Thanks again Chris for letting me part of such an inspiring race... Both the participants, crews, and staff represent such a positive thread of camaraderie and passion for excellence..

Badwater represents the human spirit of challenge within a realm of a unique community that emphasizes how well we all can work together given the opportunity... Hand in hand people work as a united team to make it all happen...

Keep up the great work as you do a commendable job wearing the hat in charge; being chief isn't always an easy role... - Best... Lana Corless (race staff)

Wow, what an incredible experience! If I could bottle this feeling I have had since finishing BW, there would be no depression or wars in the world. When I first heard about Badwater many years ago, I thought it sounded impossible, yet intiguing. Then I met Don Meyer and Darren Worts at the Olander Park 24-hour race in 2002 and they told me that I could do it. It has been brewing in my heart for years and after crewing for Greg Eason, then being part of a wonderful Medical Team last year, this was just beyond words!

Thank you so much for all of your hard work in making this the most awesome experience of my athletic career. The Badwater Family is so supportive and encouraging. You and all of your staff make this an incredible journey. My outstanding crew had a wonderful time and we'll be talking about this for the rest of our lives.

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I don't know how to thank you enough for allowing me to live my dream. I'll always be grateful. I still have a big smile on my face and will continue to have one for a long, long time.

Tomorrow I am back to work (hence the cc address). I hope that I can maintain this "runner's high" for as long as possible. - Jamie L. Huneycutt

Just wanted to give you, and all the wonderful volunteers, a huge thank you for the tremendous effots put forth at this years Badwater. A class act, from start to finish! My thoughts are still somewhat still of a blur, as I try and recount everything that happened, but the one thing that stands out in my mind is how nice and helpful all the Badwater staff were to everyone.The finisher's medal and buckle are beautiful! - Best, Anita Marie Fromm

Back home again I remember the great times in Death Valley during the race. The badwater race is my favorite race and I hope I can do it for many times more. I'm very proud to be a part of the Badwater family! - Best wishes, Eberhard Frixe

Bonjour Chris: Un grand MERCI pour cette merveilleuse course et pour la trés bonne organisation. Nous pensons revenir. - Amities, Marianne Blangy et Philippe Grizard

Wanted to send an e-mail to say thank you for including me in this years' race. Badwater was everything I hoped for, and I am thrilled to have finished. Many thanks to everyone involved. - Thanks again, Kira Matukaitis

First, CONGRATS on putting on a stunning Badwater race this year!!! Everything went so well from an organizational standpoint (at least as far as we could see from the outside). The new record is incredible – Marshall knew that Nunes would be one to watch! But… who could have predicted under 23 hours even. So amazing. And, I have to tell you, that I was REALLY impressed with the videos at the awards party. WOW! They get more, and more professionally done every year. It blows my mind that they can put together such quality stuff in such a short time!! They do a great job, to say the least. Thanks Chris and, again, CONGRATS on a great race! - Heather Ulrich

My husband, John, just participated in the Badwater Ultra and as part of his crew this year and Monica Scholz' crew last year, I wanted to just say "thanks."

Chris, his crew and the volunteers do an amazing job each year in organizing this event. I have participated in many running events and triathlons and none of them seem to be as well organized as this. I'm sure like all big events there are glitches that happen that the participants don't know about, but this is definitely a class "A" event.

I just wanted to pass this note of thanks and congrats to you for a job well done as sometimes I think the organizers and race directors and support get left out. A huge pat on the back to you! - Beth Rennison

Thank you for letting me a part of Badwater '07. It was the best experience of my life and I hope very much to be back crewing next year, possibly for someone else, if I can't convince Mark to come back. I'll see you then. - Cheri Woldt

I wanted to thank you for putting on probably the best event I have ever had that pleasure of participating in, in any capacity. The way you managed to bring the most elite endurance runners, raise the level of competition, while maintaining the event's original charm, and mystique was something I will never forget. There seemed to be a true family bond with all the runners,crew, and staff, that I had never seen before in any event. It was truly remarkable. - Steve Teal

Chris bonjour: Encore une fois je vous remercie pour votre course qui à été magnifique et je me pose la question si je ne reviens pas l'année prochaine, si vous accéptez ma candidature. Je suis impatient de remplir le dossier pour l'édition 2008 et j'éspère être retenue, pour cette fois essayer de faire un meilleur temps et d'apprécier encore une fois cette course qui est magique est trés bien organisée - HENRI D'ANDRIA

Thank you for putting on the incredibly tough 2007 Kiehl's 135-mile Badwater Ultramarathon. As usual your organization of this monster from the medical staff, roving medics, check-in stations, all the wonderful volunteers, the iceman, the cooler weather, the awards ceremony and the striking finish and buckle medals were all top notch.

You deserve a Shout Out (Yeah!!!!) and a pat on the back.

I also thought you should know that for my tenth Badwater crossing I trained especially hard and was focused on running a smart race (the race management will be covered in my story). My ultimate goal all year was to become the first person sixty and over to ever break the 40-hour mark (Dale Sutton in 1999 was close at 59-years with a 36-hour finish).

I know it may not mean much to anyone else and it will be broken eventually, but that 37:48 finish is immensely important to me, my friends and especially to all the kids that I ran for at the Valley of the Moon Children's Home in Santa Rosa, CA. They were overwhelmed that some old guy would do that for them. It was an achievement I am very proud of.

Once again, thanks for the major effort and the totally successful Badwater race. - With respect, Arthur Webb

I wanted to say thanks to you and to all your staff, crew, volunteers, and partners for staging such a fantastic race. I was blown away, not only by the grandiose landscape we got to traverse, but by the enthusiasm, adventurous spirit and professionalism of everyone involved with the event. You have inherited and built something very special there, and it is great to see how careful you are to preserve it for future years.

Thank you also -of course- for giving me the chance to have a go. I had silently hoped to be able to use this opportunity slightly better and buckle, but given how my feet looked at 25 miles, I was very, very pleased with my 50:09 finish, and especially with my strength on the final climb from Lone Pine to the Portal, where the steep uphill somehow made the foot problems more bearable and I managed the 5th fastest time on that segment.

Fortunately, John Vonhof so generously gave of his time and expertise, unfortunatley, I had to make use of his services. Having been forced to open my shoes and attend to my feet for the first time ever in 25+ years of running ultras, my blissful ignorance as far as foot care and blister prevention is concerned has certainly come to an end. I have learnt a lot from John already, I will learn much more, and hopefully will not find myself in such a sorry state ever again.

Finally, thank you also for making a point of being at the finish line and personally welcoming, congratulating, and awarding every single finisher, from the race champions battling the course records to the slow pokes battling the cut-offs. It made the moment even more special.

So, congratulations on a truly wonderful event, and I hope to be back next year to lay the 48-hour demons to rest. - All the best, Jan Herrmann (#59), Sydney/Australia

Once again, you and your volunteers produced the most well organized, safe and memorable event one could imagine. I feel honored to have participated. I don't think you fully realize the impact your event has on so many; from the runners, their families, the crews, the local businesses, media, and the general fascination experienced by the public. Yours is a big responsibility, and you handle it extremely well. - Frank McKinney

This email is a little late in coming to you but coming just the same. It is a belated thank you for taking the time to direct the Badwater race this year. It was my second trip out to Death Valley, first time running in the event and I have to say that I had a wonderful experience. Badwater has seeped into my soul and the memories that I have generated there are cherished more than any other 100 miler or like event that I have been to. Today, I still feel attached to the beauty of the Valley and connected to the event. I am looking forward to returning again next year.

Running the race this year was much different then crewing. Traversing the 135 mile course on foot birthed new challenges for me to overcome and brought about deeper levels of insight on a personal level. On one hand, my sporting expectations of achieving a projected finish time of the mid 40 hour range did not happen (due to injury) but on another level I was able to persevere through my adversity and enjoy more of the event as I was "out there" longer on the course. I've grown to appreciate this later perspective as there were many hidden jewels unearthed in my adventure. At the back of the pack I received more care and interaction with the great volunteers who were encouraging me on to the finish. Scott Snyder, Woofie, Dr. Ken and gang at Stovepipe. Jay and Corey, The Zombie couple, Jack Denness and good ole BW Ben Jones. They all gave of themselves joyfully and spent the time to get to know me. On the road I was able to enjoy more of the sights that surrounded me rather than concentrate on the pace I was on. I saw different views of the valleys. On the second day of the race the air in Panamint valley was so clear you could see the layers of colored rock pop out of the mountain sides. As my crew and I relaxed sipping smoothies on the lawn chairs at the resort we were treated to the sight of a low flying Blue Angel jet banking into a turn right in front of us. I finally passed someone on Father Crowley (Scott Weber) and was able to walk and offer encouragement through the struggle he was enduring. Being that I was on the course for a third morning was surreal...uncharted territory for me and I surprisingly felt more alive than the previous morning. It may be that I had Whitney in my sights or knew that the last miles were finally coming upon me. I was able to walk the Portal road at a fairly good pace and seeing the finish line was a very emotional experience.

As a race director myself, I truly appreciate all the effort that you and your staff put into the production of this event. It has many unique challenges and I for one can see how your commitment to the race makes Badwater an annual success story for many who volunteer and also for runners who wish to fulfill their dreams. I do not take any of your work for granted and send my sincere thanks for your dedication in furthering our sport. Take care and best wishes in your efforts directed now at the 508. - Scott Jacaway #72 = 51:33

2006 Race

Chris, it was, and is always, our distinct pleasure to visit Death Valley, the race, and you. In fact, we miss it so, we plan a visit there Labor Day week. We'll camp in the Alabama Hills as well as Eureka Dunes, among other places. We'll cook out and absorb canopies of stars as we lay on our cots. It probably won't even be 108 degrees at night! In any event, we're really excited about it. Let me close by expressing our sincerest gratitude again for all that you do to ensure the safety of the runners and their crews during the Badwater race. We can only imagine the hoops you have to jump through and what you have to put up with to keep the event going. It's a thankless job, but we thank you anyway. Your efforts are recognized and acknowledged by both of us. Carry on.. -All our best, Rhonda Provost and Richard Benyo, Badwater Hall of Fame members

I just wanted to write a note and thank you again for a superb 2006 Badwater Ultramarathon. I had a terrific time with the rest of my crew and am currently formulating plans to race again next year. Thanks again. -Regards, Jonathan Gunderson

I just wanted to drop you a line as a way to express my appreciation for all the hard work put into the race by yourself and the etire race organization. It was the most challenging event I've ever had the opportunity to participate in but it was also the most fun. I had an awesome time! -Sincerely, Dave Bursler

It's been almost 3 months since my run across Death Valley in the Badwater 135. As time passes I realize it is probably the greatest event I have run, running in 9 of the different major 100 milers. Even though my memory is lacking from those of my crew I realize I really enjoyed that run even though I had back spasms and failed my goal of under 48 hours and finishing under 52 hours. When my crew and I realized we would not make it under 43 I sat out 3 hours to relax the spasms. It was a great event and my memory comes back to a very positive side. I truly thank you and your management team for as greatest memory of running I have had to this day. -Ron Cunningham

I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed coming out and being part of the Badwater Ultramarathon again this year - completely different from running it last year, but still an amazing experience. As always the event was excellent and the volunteers at the various CPs were always friendly, encouraging and happy! Once again, great race, great atmosphere and you come away feeling marvellous whether running or crewing. -Mimi Anderson, finisher in 2005 and crew in 2006

Chris and Staff and Volunteers, thank you so much for an incredible (again) experience. Well, I got 66 incredible miles and enjoyed every step. Mother Nature was in full glory. I would have to say that this year was my favorite, even though it would have been so fullfilling to cross that line at the top again. I was more relaxed this year and was actually stronger. Running the downhill after Townes Pass probably did me in. Next time I will have a new prosthesis that actually fits properly. Thank all of you at Stovepipe Wells for helping me get replenished and for your caring support. Chris and staff—thanks again for all your hard work and dedication to this epic event. I hope to see you again in the future. -Daniel Jensen

Team Goggins would like to send our thanks to you. The race was a great experience and definitely the most professional race that any of us have attended. Also please extend our thanks to your support team and all that they put into the race. Thanks again. -David Goggins

Just wanted to say thanks for allowing this race to continue with all the logistics, politics, etc. I had no idea how big of a deal this race was until crewing for Mary Kashurba. It was an unbelievable experience especially meeting all the various folks from around the world. You and your race and medical staff should be commended. The caravan of vehicles and runners (at the start) made me feel like I was at the Tour de France!

Great job and hoping that you can keep it rolling into the future. What a spectacular place. -All the best, Wayne Kurtz

Many thanks and kudos to you and your staff for putting on an outstanding safe event. I am truly honored to have been able to participate this year and will savor the memories for years to come. -Bill Ladieu

I would just like to congratulate you on the excellent Websites that you produce for the Badwater Ultramarathon. It is by far the best site for any of the endurance races that I have tried to follow. My daughter Mimi Anderson does quite a lot of running and this year was crewing for Neil Kapoor, having run the race last year. None of the other races, she has done, post information and photos etc as promptly as you. Well done and keep up the good work! -Best wishes, Merrilie Cameron

Thank you again for the excellent job you and the Race Staff did with this years Badwater. That is such a tough event to participate in, but I also know it is very tough to put on, and you and the race team do a great job with it. Death Valley is one of the, if not THE most spectacular place I’ve ever been, and I hope the park service and all those entities that you have to deal with, appreciate the attention you help bring to the park. I will copy you on the letter I intend to send to those entities, stating my appreciation for the event, the beautiful area, and the positive, professional manner in which you put the event on. Thanks again for having me participate in your event. -David Harper

I want to thank you and your staff for putting on an extremely well organized, wonderful and challenging event. It was a privilege to be selected to be part of this stellar event. I had a great time and hope to be back in Badwater in the coming years as a volunteer, crew or runner. Thanks again for all of your hard work in making BW a top notch event. -Best regards, Nattu Natraj

Hey, this email comes from a lucky, lucky guy. Thank you for invitation, I'm so happy. Why Badwater Race is not next week?

My official badwater song this year is:

My, My, My, My,
Don't you worry 'bout what's on your mind (Oh my)
I'm just in hurry and I have no time (Oh my)
I'm going red and my tongue's getting tied (tongue's getting tied)
I'm off my head and my mouth's getting dry,
I'm high, But I try, try, try (Oh my)
Let's spend the race together,
Badwater I need you more than ever,
let's spend the race together now
and so on...

(I'm looking for a singer , I'm sure I find someone) Greetings to the whole team, enjoy your weekend and thank you again for invitation. -Eberhard Frixe

2005 Race

I want to thank you for the wonderful effort that you and your staff put forth in conducting the 2005 Badwater race. You did an awesome job, and I was privileged to be a part of it. I look forward to crewing and running this race again in future years. -Nikki Seger, 2005 official finisher (rookie entrant, three-time crew veteran)

I wanted to thank you and the entire staff again for the fine job you did with this year's race - it was a real pleasure to be back out there even if things did not go my way this time. -Curt Maples, 2005 participant, three-time finisher

I just wanted to let you know once again what a pleasure it was to be involved with your event and to congratulate you on a stellar job that you continue to do. Also, the medical staff you have is the best I have EVER experienced with ANY race. They are outstanding and have the ability to apply practical, technical and medical knowledge in a way that maximizes efforts in a very hostile environment. THEY ARE ABSOLUTELY THE BEST. -Marshall Ulrich, 2005 official finisher (with a total of 13 official race finishes)

Thanks for putting on the race...you brought in a great group of runners and support staff. I think that it has become a diamond of a race, and, I hope you'll continue to make it happen and lead the way. -Scott Weber, 2005 official finisher and ten-time finisher

What an EPIC event you put on! This race has grown into such a high class, world class, awesome event, and you did it. I am so happy to finally have this buckle. I said once I get the buckle I won't have to do the race again, but you know what? I love this race!!!! Badwater has finally put its name on the map and I believe you deserve the credit for this. -Shannon Farar-Griefer, 2005 and 2001 official finisher

What a great race. Kudos to race director Chris Kostman, the Adventurecorps crew, all the volunteers and Dr. Lisa Stranc-Bliss and all the other people in the medical units. Although this course is a logistical nightmare, it seemed that there were always race personnel monitoring all the runners along the way during the entire event. A special thanks to the roving medical teams who were everywhere along the course and always slowed down to check for either a thumbs up or for potential problems. Although I never needed their assistance, it was comforting to know that they were available and only minutes away. Outstanding. A real class act. Job well done. Thanks again. -Respectfully, Arthur Webb, official finisher 98, 99, 00, 01, 02, 04, 05

With tears in my eyes because I will not race this year, here comes my Badwater Poem for this year, enjoy it.

A poem to all Badwater friends

Badwater and Death Valley I miss you this year,
No run in the desert, no sweat and pain, no fear,
Wish good luck to all of you,
Also best wishes to every crew.
Believe me runner, the organisation is well,
You are at the beginning to a long way to hell,
Run your race,
Have a smile on your face,
And don't forget, Badwater is a special run
Wish the best to all of you, have a lot of fun,
If I am invited, I will come back next year,
I'm thinking of you, the Star Spangled Banner is in my ear!

All the best to you. - Eberhard Frixe

I wanted to thank you for such a great event! I truly respect what you have done for Badwater. I remember in 2002, my first Badwater, I received the rule book weeks before the event. I freaked out. I thought to myself, 'God, I don't know if I can live up to this!' I was so overwhelmed then. But I can truly say everything you've put in the book was basically for our/the runners/crews safety. I truly appreciate not only your caring, but also the level at which you have brought ultra-running into the spotlight with the Badwater race. There will probably not be another event like it, I'm sure. And I hope it's around not only for me to enjoy, but everyone who's done it and also future Badwater racers and crew. I call Badwater "The Truth Serum." It does change lives and quite often, if not always, I've seen for the better. It shows us what we are as souls in human form. Again I truly appreciate what you've done with the event and I thank you and your staff, and volunteers who've taken part thus far. Good Job, Man!!! Love In Action, -Very truly, Jody-Lynn Reicher, 2005 official finisher

Just a few words to try to thank you for inviting me to be part of the 2005 Badwater Ultramarathon and for your trouble to organize such an unforgettable event. Many people at home asked me before the race for my reasons to do an event like this. One of my reasons was that events like this creates memories. I do not know how to thank you for allowing me to be part of this event and to help creating a memory that will stay with me as long as I have the privilege of my mental capabilities. It would be a great honor for me to come back some day and to run my own race. I did not get to the stage of alternate consciousness or any hallucinations since I had to concentrate on Geoff Hilton-Barber the whole time. Thanks again for taking the chance with me!!

Regards. -Flip Jurgens, 2005 official finisher

I would like to thank you for this year's Badwater. It was well organized, enjoyable and safe. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to participate and finish such a difficult, but exciting run. I see life a little more clearly today and I am even more challenged to bring this piece of life and athletics to those who have not had such an opportunity. -Sincerely, Jack Humphrey, 2005 official finisher

I just wanted to thank you again for an awesome experience. It is without a doubt the hardest thing I've ever done. I learned a lot, made a few costly mistakes, but that's the challenge. To overcome and never give up. Hopefully I will be able to race again and get a belt buckle. I really appreciate the chance to have been to Badwater and the effort it must take on your part to make this the world class event that it is.

Thank you. -Jackie Simonsen, 2005 official finisher

You do an AWESOME job with this race and I appreciate it. And please feel free to forward this to ALL the race workers as well. Everyone I came in contact there was just super, they were professional and they were positive. By the way, the food was great, both pizza and breakfast, my crew was loving the free food. You ask every competitor this year and I bet you know the positive reaction you would get. -David Harper, 2005 official finisher

Thank you for putting on such an amazing event. I had the time of my life and hope to actually run the race in 2006 if I can meet the qualifying standards and gain acceptance. The sense of camaraderie and family I experienced at Badwater was like no other. I can only imagine the logistics and amount of work that goes into putting together a race of this magnitude, on public lands, dealing with so many different agencies. This was my first Badwater experience and I truly mean it when I say that it was Top Shelf and First Rate. I had the time of my life and can't wait to go back as a runner. Thanks again for a terrific race. One that I'll remember and cherish the rest of my life. Keep up the good work! -Sincerely, Liam Douglass, crew for 2005 official finisher Mark Cockbain

You and your staff do a EPIC job of organizing what must be one of the toughest race anywhere to hold. Thanks for doing such a great job of Directing the Badwater Ultramarathon. Hopefully athletes from around the world will be able to challenge themselves and fulfill their dreams for many years to come. -All the best, Ferg Hawke, two-time runner-up (04 and 05)

Thank you Chris for the incredible - I mean incredible - job you and your amazing staff do! I am honored to be part of this race-it humbles me greatly I have finished 5 times. Thank you Chris. Along with my other fund raising I do for kids-it is an honor and privlege to help them and have Badwater as the race of race to help them with. You made this all possible for us. Thank you for helping my dreams come true. -Most Sincerely, John Radich, five-time finisher, including 2005

I would like to thank you for the great honor you gave me, with the induction into the Hall of Fame. This is an honor I will never forget. I appreciate the acknowledgement of my adventure in Death Valley. It was so nice to be part of the 2005 race, as it brought back many memories of my experience. I was amazed how much the race has grown. I know this doesn't happen by itself, it only happens with your hard work as a race director, and the help of your volunteers. I loved meeting the runners and appreciated how kind they were to me. Again, thank you for your thoughtfulness. -Jeannie Ennis, 2005 Badwater Hall of Fame inductee

Chris, I want to thank you (and all the staff and volunteers and all the crews and supporters and participants) again for giving me an opportunity to be a part of the Badwater family and experience. I know there is an incredible amount of behind the scenes business to take care of. I appreciate all the time and energy you have put into this wonderful (epic) type of an event. I learned much from this 2005 Badwater experience and I am savoring it. -Dan Jensen, 1999 entrant and 2005 official finisher

Death Valley Century & Double Century

Spring 2008 Ride, Southern Route

"Thank you a million for an awesome event. The AdventureCorps Spring Century was my first century ride and it was incredible. You and the AdventureCorps Team put on a fantastic event, were encouraging, helpful, friendly and always had a smile to greet you. The beauty of Death Valley is unsurpassed. The ride is a fun and spectacular route, not without its challenges: wind, heat, wind, the climb to Jubilee. I was able to hook up with Mark from Venice, CA (his first century also), and together we worked to get the job done. My hat is off to you and AdventureCorps, Furnace Creek Ranch, National Park Service, and all of the riders! Thank you all." - Sincerely, Kelly Brown

"I just completed the DV Century ride with your group on Saturday. First - GREAT ride, GREAT support, GREAT people - thanks! Now about the weather :) only kidding! This ride was amazing, TOUGH! Yet your crew supported us well and the volunteers were wonderful! Thanks again for a great ride!" - Catherine Renaud

"Even though the wind sucked, I had to write and let you know how much I appreciated how well organized the rides were this past weekend. I was especially appreciative of the rest stops, the feedback we all got, and of the many support vehicles who were monitoring people along the route. I noticed the same cars driving back and forth numerous times making sure no one was dying in the saddle. I did not doubt my ability to finish, however the ride took me too long as I was just not well trained enough to deal with those winds, and I noted people were watching at the end to make sure I was ok and was going to make it. Thank you, for all of your attention to the safety and comfort of the participants. The SAG stops were great, the subway lunch was wonderful, and the presence of ambulances was especially appreciated. Anyway, I wanted to write and thank you for a great event. I will be in better shape for next year's, reserve hotel earlier (furnace creek was sold out when ride registration opened) and be more prepared. This was definitely a challenge for me with the winds, and one I know I will do a lot better on with more training next year." - Barbara Mau

"Thanks for the memorable ride!!! Hope to see you in the fall!" - Dave Clemes

"Thanks so much for putting on such a great event Sat. It was my 2nd Century and by far the most challenging and fun(?) Loved your inspirational send-off speech of " Pain is temporary, but quitting is forever." You and your whole crew do a bang-up job, including my sister "Badwater Babe" Maureen. Oh yeah, and then there's Timmer, Ashford Mills main man. I plan to return next year and do the double. t's imperative that I'm there as my boss tried the double this year, but DNF'ed, so for job security I need to go with him and not let him fade. He's skulking around work as we speak. Thanks again. Look forward to seeing you and your crew many times in the future." - Bob May (comments from his boss follow)

"I am really glad that the Death Valley Double was my first shot at a Double century. What an experience!!! I keep upping the level of challenges for my rides, and it was frustratingly cool to be whipped by a list of places that include 'Furnace', 'Death', 'Badwater', 'Coffin' and 'Funeral' in their names. Yeah, I’m bitter, but now that I understand the type of persistence that the finishers had to muster, I am more determined than ever to go for it again. What an amazing bunch of athletes assemble in the desert for your events!

"Bob and I trained together this winter. I am impressed that he finished the Century and pleased that he will be shooting for the Double next year. I plan to either draft off him all the way to Salsberry Pass or be fit enough to pull him through whatever the desert decides to whip up that day.

"Thank you for creating an event that stands out as a real special marker in my life’s list of challenges." - Sincerely, Steve Sorensen (the "boss" mentioned above)

"I enjoyed volunteering in Death Valley. I met a lot of great people and made several new friends. I look forward to volunteering again." - Fred Klinzman

"Very, very nice ride in Death Valley. Delighted to meet you and hope to ride with you again, probably at the camp if you run it in 2009. Look forward to seeing my picture on the website. (You snapped me with Telescope Peak in the background. I had the funky white cloth on my helmet.) Let me know if you get around to reading the book, especially since the hero is a former cyclist. Thanks much for everything.

"Would we do it again? You know, Death Valley is so beautiful, I would never turn down a chance to ride here. And the organizer, AdventureCorps, really runs a nice, tight, no-silliness show. But this was a terrific lesson about activities in the mountains or the desert (and shows why CNN is always showing those tapes of rescuers searching for people who went out for an easy day hike and nver came back.) If the wind had stayed down, this would have been an easy century, a perfect way to kick off the season, not much harder than Palm Springs last year. But throw in weather, and what we expected to be a little jaunt turned into the second toughest ride I've ever done. Then again, if I'd wanted easy, I could have stayed home. I don't think Death Valley is about easy." - Sam Hill

"Thanks so much for such a great event. This was my first century and I'm still riding a high. The precision with which the event was run was flawless and the volunteers were uniformly friendly, helpful and efficient. Thanks again for such a great introduction to the sport. I look forward to the fall!" - Kevin Fitzpatrick

* "Re: Paul Fahey's 'video blog'. As his father I could agree with your assessment that he has too much time on his hands. However, for 105 days he heralded the event with a light-hearted spirit (that masked his apprehension), entertained his family and friends, and drew their steadfast support of his efforts.

"Throughout the day of March 1, without benefit of ESPN and Wide World Of Sports, we tried to imagine what he, and his friend Jim Darling, were going through. Questions...questions...questions. What were the headwinds doing to them? Did the heat and hills take their toll and force them to call it quits? Hell, did one of them sit on a scorpion? No cellphone service, no internet access, no report.... Were they lying dead by the side of the road? Paul, what did you do with all my tools that you borrowed?

"No, Paul Fahey and Jim Darling FINISHED the ride, crossing the finish line a mere 27 seconds under the deadline. Hell, I can't do a 105 mile DRIVE without a biology break! They didn't set any records but they did finish, and that says it all.

"I am deeply proud of my son, his dedication, his accomplishments, and his steadfast devotion to a goal he set a long time ago. What lies ahead? I have no idea, but I'm sure it will be 'a doozie'. Stand by for yet another 'blog'.

"To AdventureCorps, and all the participants in the Spring 2008 run, I say 'thank you' for affording Paul the opportunity to challenge himself and prove he has "the right stuff". Keep up the good work." - John Fahey

"Great event ! I had a blast. It was my first time riding (and finishing) a double century." - Thanks, Steve Kreider

"Thanks so much for such a great event. This was my first century and I'm still riding a high. The precision with which the event was run was flawless and the volunteers were uniformly friendly, helpful and efficient. Thanks again for such a great introduction to the sport. I look forward to the fall! - Kevin Fitzpatrick

"I rode on Saturday and it was my first century. It was great fun and I had a wonderful day out...although, thanks to the wind a little longer than anticipated. I wanted to say thank you for organizing such a terrific event. I thought you guys did a tremendous job of finding the balance of making sure everyone was safe while still allowing people to do their own thing. Also, the volunteers at the rest areas were the true heros of the day, without them these kind of events cannot happen. Please pass on my thanks to all of them. Thanks again and hope to see you out there in the future." - Best regards, Mark Tobin

The Spring Death Valley century, a first for me, was an outstanding experience that can only be described by superlatives. The SAG support, the organization, the food/hydration stops & the comradery were all excellent, despite the intense headwind which made the ride quite challenging. I'll be back again!! - Paul Hanna

March 1st DV Century was my first! WOO HOO! Thank you so much for such a well organized, awesome event. Wow, those winds...that must be nature's way of making us all really, truly feel alive. I know I did!
Thanks for everything you do. - Gina Becker

Chris, thank you. It was both a honor and a privilege to ride in you event, complete with it's wonderful traditons and history. This was our first trip to Death Valley however, from a distance we've long been aware of the physical and mental challenges that athletes have accomplished in this greatness of outdoors. As such, it was a treat to be in the company of excellence in the environment, athlethes, volunteers and organizors. A highlight in our 2008 year. This is a must do experiance for any cyclist or ultra athlete. We hope to be back soon. - Roger George & Ev Cristello - The Canadians

Thanks to your staff for a great ride. Even with the brutal headwinds, nothing beats cycling in Death Valley. A bad day there is still more fun (with more stories and tall tales as a result) than a good day in a lot of other places. - Best, Robert F. James

The Death Valley event was very well run. All the volunteers were great and the Furnace Creek Ranch was a really nice place to stay and eat. Thanks for putting on an excellent ride! - Debbie Albers

I rode the Spring Death Valley century with your group on March 1. It was my first century, undertaken as a challenge for my 60th birthday which was March 2. It was harder than it looked and the headwinds really made me cranky! But it was otherwise a beautiful day and I felt well supported all along the way by the people at the rest stops, the sags along the road, and by the other riders. Thank you for a wonderful experience! - Katharine Blank

I am a first time century finisher. Little did I know that this century was 'extra tough' with the winds! Great support with the water/fuel stops. Your volunteers at the ‘fuel’ stops were great and uber-helpful – they deserve all the praise they can get! Very well organized (the registration line moved really well!). Thanks, again. - Cynthia Jule Clark

Overall, the event was very well coordinated. You and your volunteers were outstanding and you do a tremendous job of promoting the sport of ultra-cycling. Please keep up the excellent work. - Sincerely, Martin Hukle

Thanks for another EPIC event, I had a great time and the wildflowers were beautiful! Coming into Badwater on the way back reminded me of the movie "Triplettes of Bellville" when the riders bonk on the side of the road. So many riders at that stop were "catching flies" with their gaping mouths and starring off into space, or maybe that's just how I perceived it during my euphoric hallucinations due to running out of water myself 5mi before that checkpoint. - Brian Davidson

Fall 2007 Ride, Northern Route

I want to extend a big thanks for organizing a wonderfully well run event on Saturday. This was my first double century and it was as memorable as I could have hoped. The volunteers were all helpful, cheerful and eager to serve. I was also struck at the camaraderie amongst the riders. Everyone I met on the road invited me to join their pace line if they had one, offered encouragement and shared advice on long distance riding. And of course the whole event takes place in an other-worldly environment. It's like nothing else I've ever done. - Regards, Frank Fuerst, Atlanta, GA

Wow - what a great time I had at the Fall Death Valley Century! You and your staff really did a fantastic job. And my brother Jim enjoyed being a part of the lunch crew at Scotty's Castle - thanks for recognizing his effort in the results update. I'm already planning on signing up for the Spring DVC - I'd like to see the valley from a different perspective, and participate in yet another great adventure with you and your staff. Thanks again! - John Cosentino

First of all I want to thank you for putting on such a great event! It was awesome! Everything from the rider check in to crossing the finish line was 1st class. The staff is clearly the friendliest I have ever met in an event like this. They really went over and above giving support and making sure we all got fed, hydrated and medicated (Vitamin I). - Per Asberg

Thanks again for a FABULOUS experience last weekend. It was a hard ride but I enjoyed it and met a lot of great people along the way. - Best! Eva Hirt

SPECIAL THANKS to staff and volunteers for a delightful day of riding. Kudos to the provider of weather. Couldn’t ask for anything better in Death Valley. Thanks to new friends for conversation as the day passed, always a high water mark of any long ride. Thanks to Ben Serotta for building a tandem bike more than 30 years ago that is as good as the best new machines available today and better than most, so says Adrienne “Stoker Extraordinaire.” Special thanks to 7pm crew van heading to Mud Canyon stop who asked “do you want a ride in the van” which brought our response “show us your tits and get lost.” The driver (male) kindly obliged and deserves special mention (name unknown). Finally, thanks to Steve Barnes for giving up his day of riding to man rest stops and for laughing uncontrollably with us at the finish. Ours was a great day and a great end to a long day. - Adrienne Ruggles & Tom Milton

Hi, it was great to meet you in person. I just wanted to let you know that I had a great time volunteering at the ride on Saturday—it was a lot of fun being out there and helping the riders. I took a bunch of pictures during the ride, and posted some of my favorites here. The event looked like so much fun that I’m seriously considering getting in shape to ride one of your Death Valley centuries next year, so I might be seeing you again. Thanks again, and congratulations for putting on a really superb event. - Chuck Murphy, volunteer

I wanted to report that Pam and I really enjoyed ourselves. The course was interesting and we like the format and support. We like low-key, relaxed events. The trail run series I co-administer in Tucson is even more low-key. Pam commented the coyote we saw at Scotty's Castle was the fattest, healthiest one she's seen (We get them in our yard. One lunged at me on a bike in our neighborhood.). After doing what we realized was a tougher century than it first appeared, we're quite impressed with the double century folks. And realized for you and they it would be a long night... Thanks for organizing. All we had to do was show up and pedal. - Ross Zimmerman

I had a great time at the Death Valley Double Century on the 27th. Many kudos to you and all the volunteers for putting on a superb ride – with great support and very well stocked rest stops. I’ll send a note on the forums as well. Many thanks again and I’m recommending the Death Valley Double to my friends in the Potomac Pedalers and Reston Bike Clubs on the East coast – some of whom are already talking about riding it next year! - Chris Ross

It really was a great ride last weekend. More than any other ride of the year, the Death Valley ride has a spiritual component in it for me. There is so much more to the ride than just staring at the back wheel in front of you. - See you soon, Bruno George

Thanks so much for organizing and carrying out last weekend's DV DC. The support staff were soooo helpful and encouraging. The ice along the way was a gift from the heavens. The cans of Coke at Hell's Gate and the pizza at the finish line were tops. If not for a flat and stopping at the ranger station to talk to my kids,...I would have eaten even more pizza! Seriously, the support staff were off the Bell curve when it came to being of assistance. Their attitudes were a breeze of refreshment along the winding road. Please keep up the great work. - Thanks so much, Joe Haberman

Many thanks for the opportunity to ride the fall DVD after the disappointment of missing the spring event. It was much appreciated. Another great ride well organized and well supported. Riding in Death Valley is always a thrill and each year you get to see the Valley in a different way. Had a great ride this year lowering my personal best by over an hour--perhaps the difference between riding at the end of the season versus at the start. Need to start planning for the spring event! - Many thanks, Paul Carpenter

Thanks for all of your hard work - the support was terrific and we had a great time! Thanks again for the great ride, we're going to try and come back to do the double next spring. - Mike and Debbie Bonner

As always, I sure had a wonderful time at Death Valley. Thanks for everything! Can't wait to see the pictures. You always have the best of best as volunteers and entering the event. Thanks for all that you do. - Stephanie Chepin

Once again the cycling GODS were with us. THANKS for putting together such a great ride. Your event volunteers were so nice in asking us if we needed supplies on the course! Have a great holiday and hope to join your group again. LIVE STRONG !! - Darryl E. Toupkin

Thank you, I wanted to drop you a note to say thanks for doing an awesome job on the Death Valley ride last weekend. It was my first DV Century what a great ride, great staff and well put together event. Thank you doesnt seem enough. I am already looking forward to next year. - Thanks again, Don Torres

Thanks for the great ride!!! The support was excellent this year and the weather was perfect! The pizza was a great touch!!!! Hope to see you in the spring! - Dave Clemes

I really enjoyed the Death Valley Double Century. You sure know how to put on a great event! I returned to my home in Louisville yesterday afternoon and received several more donations while I was away in Death Valley. I sent out 500+ reminder letters to friends, family and co-workers about 7 - 10 days before the ride so I still expect to receive quite a few more donations. I have received $2545 for the Lance Armstrong Foundation and $5275 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for a grand total of $7820. I am quite confident I will raise at least $10,000 because of the Death Valley Double Century once all the donations have arrived and I might even hit the $15,000 mark! When I started fundraising for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society back in 1998, I never imagined that I would raise $67,630 for cancer research and patient aid. The generosity of my donors never ceases to amaze me. I have attached a copy of the fundraising letter along with a copy of an article that was recently published in our local paper. I have already spoken to a few of my cycling buddies about the Furnace Creek 508. Plus, after reading the book "To the Edge," I have added the Badwater Ultramarathon to my list of races to complete. Thanks again for everything Chris! - Livestrong! Tim Hamburger

Thanks so much for another great event! (This was my 4th DV Century). Your aid stations were very well-stocked (the Kerns nectars were a treat) and staffed with very friendly and helpful volunteers, as usual. See you again soon. - Molly Heekin

This was another great ride! This was the 5th that my brother and I have done and we always have lots of fun. I really like the limited numbers of riders and great support. Thanks for putting on the rides. - Thanks, Mark Smith

Once again you have provided an exceptional cycling experience with a fantastic support team. - Gary Sedlack

Thanks for a fantastic event once again! - Shay Shepston

You guys really put out a tremendous effort, and I hope everyone appreciates it as much as I do. Having Tim lend me his light at the last rest stop so I could soldier on was just an example of the selflessness and encouragement that the AdventureCorps team invests in the ride...really makes it a special event! Training for and achieving the double-century with ergs to spare really focused me on the 508...which will be my 45th birthday to myself! - Regards, Andrew Kagan

I have to thank you and the crew again for an outstanding event: The guy who massaged my feet to get me back on the bike (Joe?), the guy driving the SAG who encouraged me all the way up to Hell's Gate, and the delivery of A&D ointment at the right time all kept me on the bike. It's not prestigious being last, but the benefit is the terrific support! - Debbie Protho

Spring 2007 Ride, Southern Route

"Thanks for the great event in Death Valley. It was an awesome ride and the weather was amazing.

Anyways, a good friend of our family, Frederick White, heard I was doing the Century and got really excited. He immediatly asked if "Chris was still running the events?" and said he has done quite a few of your cycling events in Death Valley a long time ago, something none of us knew about. He has fond memories of all of the rides he's done, the people he's met, and had great things to say about you, too. He's nothing but 110% positive.

After fighting for over 6 years, I think he's about to lose his battle with cancer. According to the doctors, he was supposed to be gone a long time ago, but he refuses to quit. When they told him it was hopeless, he ignored them and kept going. He suffered through daily chemo and even kept working even when his job repeatedly offered him paid leave. The cancer spread through his body a while ago, but he still refused to let up, even now that they are refusing him chemotherapy. Now that it has reached his spine and taken over his bones, he is hardly able to talk or walk, but he sure as hell tries. He has more of a will to live in his 60's than most people have in all of their years combined.

I just wanted to tell you that your events really leave an impression on people that they carry with them their entire life. After my ride on Saturday (and despite him hardly being able to communicate) all Frederick has been talking to my parents about is how he remembers cycling through Death Valley and how excited he was that I did it. What you do, although it's "only a sport" really makes a difference in people.

I'm looking forward to the Fall event, I'll introduce myeself then. If by some miracle Frederick is still around, I'm gonna bring him out there, I think he would really like to check things out.

Take care, and thanks again."  - Jesse Scarantino

"Dear Chris and the DV 2007 Volunteers: On the one hand, during this adventure I feel limited in ability to describe Death Valley’s harsh beauty and the light’s ever changing hue upon the terrain. Limitless on the other hand is my appreciation for Chris, the Death Valley volunteers and others who supported the 300 plus cyclists along with myself behind the scenes.

Thank you Lee Mitchell, you’re a prince and your red van a roving oasis of safety and comfort. The soothing memory of listening to Creedence Clearwater instead of the mental complaints my hinny demanded while climbing up Jubilee Pass will not be forgot. Thanks to Chris, his hands on involvement, his kind yet firm coaxing mentoring all of us onward despite wind wearied legs. At the last stop in Badwater, individually you each took time, looked at me and said ‘you can finish this’, followed by good cycling advice to accomplish the goal, along with a promise you’d be there if this wannabe needed and cared to finished. The advice was sound and your promise true during those last few miles. How could a gal not make the effort to finish after that?

Accolades to this event’s smiling staff selflessly committed to assisting the cyclist out on the road.

To my fellow cyclists: your stories, your woes and uplifting camaraderie are remembered (plus play by play odometer countdowns yelled as you whizzed by). No matter how lovely the scenery, how empty the experience might be without sharing the pain and bliss separated only by one, or many, bike lengths during our desert ride. These moments mattered to me and inspire thoughts to ride again."  - Sincerely, Bernadette Lopes

"I just wanted to say thanks for you and your crew for an outstanding experience that I had at the Death Valley Double Century this past weekend. This was my first double century and it was an experience that I will always treasure. One the many memories that I will have will be climbing up to Salsberry Pass listening to Pink Floyd's "The Dark Side of the Moon" thinking to myself that this may be what the moon looks like close-up. The headwind coming back to Furnace Creek was a real test. I came back to Furnace Creek at 5:30 pm and I remember you saying early that morning how this ride has a high DNF rate because of the stop at mile 150. So I showered, changed clothes, changed from my tri-bike to my road bike with headlights and headed out. Best decision I could have made. I was by myself riding in the dark with no one else near me for as far as I could see. I have a downhill, listening to the Allman Brothers song "Jessica" and I look over to my right to see a HUGE moon rising over the mountains. I got an incredible rush - it was what the Japanese would call a satory - an enlighted moment. It was perfect.

Unfortunately right after that high, I noticed out of my peripheral vision that something was stalking me on the left side of the road. I sped up, but it sped up. I slowed down, and it slowed down. I finally realized that it was my shadow from the moon. I was afraid of my own shadow. However, I did see a coyote on the way back from Stove Pipe Wells. After being stalked by your own shadow, real creatures don't faze me.

As far as feedback, the aid stations were the best stocked I have ever seen. The BEST was the Cup Of Noodles that I had at Stove Pipe Wells. I know that that Styrofoam cardboard noodle mixture probably costs less than a dollar. But I had a mouth orgasm when I devoured that succulent concoction. You really can enjoy the little things when you are out there on the edge. Thanks for the experience."  - Jim Yanoschik

"Chris and Volunteers, I would like to thank you for an extraordinary ride Saturday. You sadists and us masochists had a wonderful time. I was great to see so many volunteers that stayed out well into the night for us. I also have never seen so many SAG vehicles run is such a professional manner. If I needed them they would be there for sure. I would also like to thank you all for the wind that sorted out the true masochists. However, next year could you put in more of a tail wind for us. It was also great to meet so many riders from California and to ride with 508 veterans - that was so interesting. They had so much information and wisdom for me. Moreover, I am amazed at the ultra cycling community in California, it is truly impressive."  - Robert G. Sauve

"It was great seeing you and your parents at the ride this weekend! Hope you are recovered, we are still in the process of it. Nice change of "pace" for Bob and I as we were just there as participants, rather than there for 70 or so other people (not that we mind that, but just nice to have some down time!). We had no idea what to expect as we have never ridden 200 miles before, let along do all of our training indoors since November. Death Valley certainly seems to bring out the best in people, even under less than ideal conditions! The ride support was great, HEED is the best thing since sliced bread, appreciate all the little flowers you had planted along the side of the road, the full moonlight was ideal, and it would not have seemed like a real DV experience if the winds had been too calm!"  - Wendy Hanisch, Executive Director, JDRF Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter

"My wife and I wanted to express our thanks for the outstanding event held last Saturday. As my first Death Valley Century (actually my first Century) I was a bit apprehensive but your support team was extremely positive and supportive. This was my wife’s second DVC and a veteran of many Century rides and spoke highly of her previous experience. Her opinion was your support on this DVC was even better last Saturday."  – Sincerely, Gary Farris and Eileen Nicodemus-Farris

"Thank you for putting together an awesome event. Death Valley was more beautiful than I expected and the people made the ride a truly great experience. Your website is impressive and I'm looking forward to joining another one of your adventures."  - Best wishes, Carolyn O'Brien

"What a great ride! The 508 in 2004 is where it really all started for me crewing for "Wren" (Wade Baker) on his first solo attempt. I knew very little ... actually nothing about Ultra Cycling at that time. Then Kerin Huber and I did 2 women 508 in 2005. Death Valley is a very special place for me now. It was great to see just a portion of the 508 and stay in the park. I loved driving the car at the speed limit ... instead of following a rider at a snails pace on the way in and the way out. The support was awesome! So great to have ALL the Hammer products instead of wondering which ones might be available! I have never seen so much roving sag on a ride with only 300 riders! My stats from the double are off my Ciclomaster CM436M (Distance 199.03 Altimeter 9098). Thanks Chris for a job well done. The volunteers were fabulous!"  - Isabelle Drake aka E.coli

"Thanks for a great event Chris. And a big thanks to all you volunteers. The best supported event I've entered."  - David Bradley

"Thanks for putting on such a great ride! The support on the ride was the best I have ever seen. Great Job! This was the first Double Century I have ever done. Who knows, maybe the 508 in the near future! Thanks!"  - William Spaeth

"This Death Valley Double was a amazing experience, it was my first ever Double Century and what great place to do it! The support on the ride was great, I would definitely recommend this ride to anyone crazy enough to do a Double Century. I hope one day to do the 508!"  - Thanks, Nicholas Rice-Macdonald

"What a wonderful event. Riding 105 miles through the almost unreal terrain of Death Valley was an unforgettable experience. The camaraderie on the road and the amazing support made a tough ride a great memory. I especially want to thank the support team at Ashford Mills who loaded me up with Tums and electrolytes when my leg cramped on the way back helping me finish strong! Great work! All the best and maybe the double century next year!" - Ken Kaplan

"I was one of your first time double century riders this past weekend. I had a great time and am enjoying the slide show pics you have on your site. Thanks for putting on such a great event!!"
 - Jeni Turgeon

"I rode with my wife Jeni, who did her first double century and it was a blast. First time at Death Valley, but I enjoyed every minute of it. Watching Jeni come back from a bonk and keep pushing on was truly amazing to see. And for as many events as I do, a lot of them also have Hammer products as well, but this was the first time I ever was able to take in Perpetuem Scoops along the route! Awesome - I much prefer that over Sustained Energy. Thanks for putting this one on - you do one heck of an awesome job and we'll be back next year."  - Matt Turgeon

"I just wanted to thank you and your volunteers for putting on a great event a few days ago in Death Valley! The atmosphere was relaxed and enjoyable and the support was top notch! It was my first time in Death Valley, and to do a century was icing on the cake. I hope to make it out to your fall event and ride the double, while my wife tries her first century! You guys rock!!"  - Jason Becker

"Thanks for putting on a great event.. It's evident that adventurecorps is working to constantly improve, and the effort is much appreciated. The improvement goes beyond just support. The overall attitude is positive, friendly and just plain enjoyable."  - Thanks again, Rick and Anna Stewart

Fall 2006 Ride, Northern Route

I really appreciate your support, and that of the event volunteers. I am still pretty new at this ultracycling stuff, but I have seen lots of organizations and groups put on lots of different kinds of events. And I have put on lots of entertainment events myself. Yours are among the best organized and best run I have seen. And the volunteer staff is terrific. Better than most "professional" groups by far.

Put me down for support for both JDRF events for 2007. - Steve Barnes

We had a great weekend in Death Valley and we’re happy it worked out that we could find a way to pitch-in. We’ve gotten far more out of our 508 and DV ride experiences than we could ever repay. We had a great time at Hell’s Gate. That’s the first chance I’ve had to be on that side of a ride. It was fun to offer some encouragement and help folks get it together enough to make it to the finish. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of hanging around finish lines or watching people push themselves beyond their limits. I’m sure your job is no different than any other and you have good days and bad days. But, it seems to me that you’re lucky to do what you do and lots of us are lucky that you do it so well (and that sometimes we get to help out)! - Thanks again, Steve Gray, Fall 2006 Death Valley volunteer

Thanks for organizing such a great ride. Your group of volunteers did an excellent job. I want to give a special thanks to Lee Mitchell. I had a rear tire blowout, in the dark, while coming down the hill from Hell's Gate. I was able to hold the bike up and stop. After getting my wits together I walked my bike to the side of the road, took out my small flashlight, a tube and a spare tire that I was carrying. Then along came Lee he stopped in such away that I was shielded from any oncoming traffic, automobile as well as bike traffic, and his headlights allowed me to change my tire. I have known for quite a while that he is the most knowledgeable when it comes to providing support. If Lee did not show up I would have spent another hour changing the tire. He is the best. - Thanks again, Gerald Gerbil Goode

To all of you: A great big thanks and well done for a wonderful experience. Having served time in Saudi Arabia in the service, I never imagined I would willingly travel to Death Valley, but the lure of a century ride finally won me over. Since I didn’t train anywhere near the amount I had in seasons past in preparation, my overall time didn’t come close to any of my personal bests. I was certainly not going to overdo it, though, and DNF… especially with the costs involved of just getting there. I had considered not attending, especially after losing my mother – who fought the after effects of cancer to the very end – just three weeks shy of my wedding. But, in the end, my wife and I couldn’t think of any other way to pay tribute to her but to finish this one in her memory. As I crossed the line at Furnace Creek, I pointed up and said “Thanks Mom.” Again, thank you all very much and I look forward to experiencing this wonderful event again in the future. - Steven Hamer

Hey Chris, I would first like to say thanks for the opportunity to participate in the Death Valley ride. I was part of the Arkansas and Oklahoma group that came over for the ride, everyone had a blast and we plan on coming back. That was the most incredible century I have ever done! The support was great and the ride went off without a hitch. - Jason Beebe

If you like knock-your-eyeballs-out scenery and are willing to take what the weather gods dish out, this is certainly one of the most beautiful places to ride in the country. - Bill Nicolai (Read his full report!)

Thanks for all of the great organazation that went into the DV ride yesterday. - Stephen George

I want to thank you for option four (telling me to "just push a little harder, stop a little less, and finish on time!!!"). I had a great time.... I also want to thank you for all of your encouragement... I honestly did not think I could finish within the time limit. Glad you had faith in me... - Bobbi Fisher

I would like to forward my Appreciation towards you and your staff for another great event!!!... It is always a pleasure, and privilege to ride in Death Valley... The organization, and support were fanatasic!!! Even though I did not finish (I came down with food poisoning the night before, I started 'Weak', and didn't get any stronger), the good memories of riding through the Valley definitely out-weighed the personal disappointment of not finishing... For my own personal reasons, I decided that the prudent decision was to turn around at the Nevada stateline, and ride back and not take up valuable SAG resources for those who would need them more... Now I have another personal goal... Thanx Again For A Great Event.. - Mark A. Martinez

My friend Greg Robinson and I went for the double century Saturday. It was a first double attempt for both of us. We weren’t too sure what to expect, but we both did quite well I think. (I was glad the wind wasn’t too nuts!!) Thanks for the great ride. - Dave Calkins

Thanks for the Fall Death Valley Double experience. It was quite a ride. I'm proud to be able to say that I finished. This was my first year riding double centuries. And, finishing both the spring and Fall Death Valley Doubles were important personal goals for me. By the way, the Death Valley Ultra Cycling jersey is very nice. I wore it on a short recovery ride when I got home and I really got some extraordinary looks from folks. Thanks again, and I hope to be out there next year for the Spring Double. - (William) Ron Keesling

I had great time on your Death Valley Double last Saturday. The northern route was the first for me. Riding at 4,000 feet during the heat of the day was great. Thanks again. - Brian Rapp

he 2006 Fall Death Valley Double Century (my first double) was the most powerful learning experience in my life.. I plan to concentrate on doubles until next October's 508. I hope to see you then. - Eric Troili

I wanted to thank you for putting on a great ride last Saturday. It was my first in Death Valley and I thoroughly enjoyed it. - Scott Major

Spring 2006 Ride, Southern Route

Thanks for the best bike ride and single day experience I have ever had. First, your crew and volunteers are simply outstanding. The organization is super. The thing I really noticed was that everyone was friendly and in a good mood, even in the gravel. The beauty of the desert is the desolation where one can become quite and view the work of the master. That is exactly what I was looking for, and I got far more than expected. Thanks again for a great experience. - Scott Palka

Just wanted to thank you for putting on a really great and professional ride. Even though I only rode 176 miles, I still feel like a winner because of the great support, enouragement and aid provided throughout the ride. For me, it was a personal best, and gave me a milestone for what I can achieve riding solo given the minimal amount of training I did...and gives me an incentive to come back better and stronger. - Andrew Kagan

Thanks again for having us at your ride. We all had a fantastic weekend in Death Valley. As you will read below, everything from the food to your staff was the best. Hopefully we can do all of your events this year, minus Batwater!! We will volunteer for that one. - Paul Thomas (Read Paul's Slowtwich Forum comments)

guys, that was a really nice event you put on. thankyou. the organizers' good attitude propagated through the participant community. lots of smiles and laughs. anyone out there hesitating to sign up, have no fear, you are in good hands. this was my first double century (and a great escape from ironman.) so what's this 508 thing all about .... thanks to all the volunteers, especially the person that handed me the soup in stovepipe wells. 'course the very hot slice of pizza at the finsh was memorable too. - peter davies

Just a quick note of thanks for putting together a great ride in DV. With the location, weather, lack of traffic and great organization, this ranks right up near the top of all rides. Thanks again – I’m looking forward to the next one. - Dave Midboe

You hosted a class-act, and I wanted to let you know one more time how much fun we had. It was a great experience, in spite of our sore hineys. As sick as it sounds, I'm already thinking forward towards the fall event.

FWIW and in my humble opinion, the style points for the event go to the older gentleman on the old white Schwinn Paramount with the polished Nervex lugs. Both Della Santas and both Steve Rexes (the silver / orange / red one and the tandem) were/are close seconds. Still, that gent on the Schwinn was styling old school all the way, including his 70s Suntour touring gruppo.

By the way, Perpeteum was what you said it would be. It was easy on my stomache and a great supplement between aid stations - Scott Needle

I participated in your double centruy on March 6th this year and thought it was great. Good folks, good support and good weather. - Dennis Ryll

Hey thanks for letting me join the double century after mistakenly signing up for the century. Also thought I would mention it was very well organized and I met some great people, thanks' This was my first double century, as a matter of fact I have never done a century either (just bought my road bike in Sept 2005). I figured if a century was good a double must be better:) Again thanks - Ernie Ziesman

I wanted to thank you for a great experience for my first Century. The weather couldn’t have been better and your staff helped to get us all over those first 17+ miles of gravel! I had two high points of the ride: hitting Jubilee Pass and thinking the toughest part of the ride was over (later I realized the stretch from 70-85 miles would be far tougher for me than the climb but the boost I felt at the halfway point fueled me for the next 15 miles); and getting off the gravel and seeing the finish line - Shay Shepston

I just wanted to drop you a note and let you know how fantastic the event went for me - and all because of your volunteers. I had a rough start - my seatpost kept slipping, and about 5 miles from the Badwater rest stop (on the way out) I stripped the bolt head on my seatpost clamp. I pulled into Badwater thinking my ride was over. We stole the cap bolt from my stem, which fit - but my clamp was actually stripped. I don't know who it was, but one of the volunteers there had an extra in their toolbox that they loaned me. When I took it back to him the next day (he was staying in room 203) he told me he'd had one fail once, and so always carried a spare. That one act of kindness saved my ride. I'd driven over 25 hours to get there, and would've been hugely disappointed to not have been able to finish due to a mechanical. Thanx to your great volunteers, and one in particular, I was able to finish. You run a great event, and I had a great time. Thanx - Rob Barfuss

Fall 2005 Ride, Northern Route

Just a quick note to say thank you for hosting ANOTHER great event. This is the third year my riding partner and I have done the Death Valley Double and we have a blast every year. Many many thanks. We had done the southern routes in 2003 and 2004 and had not planned to ride this year but when you changed the course to the northern route, we had to do it, and we made the right choice.

The support staff is fantastic; they are all helpful and congenial. Especially nice were the "Water Angels" half way up the climb to Scotty's. A well placed break.

You guys do a great job and we love coming out from the east coast to enjoy the desert and the western hospitality. - Sincerely, Ed Mockler

Thanks for making my first 200 ride a great experience. Your volunteers were cheerful, encouraging and were very appreciated. I hope to do another ride (or run) with you again. - Paige Sommer

Marilyn and I had a terrific time and are happy to have completed the full course in 16 1/2+ hours. The Nevada leg nearly did us in with the fresh chip seal road surface, it made the Ubehebe Crater leg seem tame in comparison. We drove over the Hell's Gate triangle the next day to see the views we missed by riding this section in the dark. We will have to pick up the pace to enjoy the view the first time, nevertheless that was a great section to ride in the dark. Thanks again for a great adventure. - Richard Lowe

I just wanted to take a minute and drop you a note of thanks. Last weekend was my first double century. And despite the fact that I had to duct tape my foot to the pedal (my own fault for that little bit of pleasure) and fnished five hours slower than we anticipated, the ride was everything I could have hoped for and more. I've only been riding a bike since February of this year, and my goal for the year was to ride one century. I completed that goal in March and obviously had to rethink this year's aspirations. I chose the death valley ride after talking to some 508 veterans at another ride I sagged on in the spring. They spoke of how dedicated you were to putting on a great ride, and now I can say that they didn't lie. I can only imagine how much time and effort go into putting on events like this, and you probably don't get enough thanks at the end of the day. I'll just say that this ride has inspired me all the more, and I plan on being back for both the spring and fall rides in 06. - Best, Robert F. James

I wanted to drop you a quick note to say thank you for a job well done. I truly had a great time doing the DV Century ride last month. This being the second time for me to do the ride I was so happy to participate. Death Valley is just a great hidden jewel for cycling and if I could I would join you and your team every chance possible. I hope to be able to make it out once again next fall to take the challenge. In the mean time, keep up the good work and ride safe! LIVE STRONG ! - Darryl E. Toupkin

Just a quick note now I'm back in blighty to say thanks for a great ride Saturday, the help and support was amazing, really well organised and oh so appreciated - partic' that soup at the bottom of hells gate ! Really glad I took part, will be back for next year - and next time I'll try and finish in the daylight, although the descent from hells gate at 40mph in the dead of night was probably the most exhilarting part of the whole ride ! Thanks also to Santa for fixing my seatpost five minutes before the start and 'irish david' in his green peace top, who's constant chirpy upbeat attitude made me get back on the saddle when my legs were pleading otherwise. Thanks again, it was a great introduction for my first double century. - Cheers and take care, Neil Jones (Note: Neil flew over from the UK!)

I had a great time, although it was more challenging than I expected having not had enough time to train recently. But it's encouraged me to push harder...I may come back and try for the DV200 in the Spring. Thanks for everything. The ride was wonderfully organized and well thought out. - Andrew Kagan

Thank you so much for organizing such an outstanding event this weekend. Not only was this my first trip to Death Valley, but it was also my first attempt at an endurance event. I felt that the event was well supported with food, liquids and enthusiasm. Thanks so much for all of your hard work. Next year I will have to return and try break my 5hr. 40min. Century time. Be Well. - Kyle Pedersen

Just finished my first double century at death valley!! The people at the rest stops were great!! My lights went out on me a of couple times (I even brought extra batteries) and two riders kindly helped me out. Santa, sag, rock and roll mix well. The day was perfect and the night sky...awesome. Thanks for a very organized event! - George Perez

Thanks for a very well organized and supported ride on Saturday. You did a pretty good job with the weather, as well! Had a great time. Already looking forward to signing up for the Spring version. - Thanks, Calvin Mulder

I wanted to thank you and your crew very much for a great experience, friendly atmosphere (all the rest-stop people were so cheerful!), and for helping me at the start line when my shifter-cable broke. I thought my double is over before it even started. Thanks very much! - Carola Berger

I was one of the last in - but perhaps the happiest! I had a season full of issues. Bummer for a season that was to have my first double and my first triple crown. I am so happy to say that finishing just under the gun in Death Valley allowed me to achieve the triple crown. 5 starts, 3 finishes ----- and the most satisfying finish had to be with you guys. Thanks again for letting me in! It was GREAT! - Cheers, Tracy Roseboom

Spring 2005 Ride, Southern Route

Thanks for a great ride and see you next spring. You guys did a great job and thanks for the flowers. I have ridden this ride for many years and this was the best one. - Tim Rowe

Thanks for putting on such a great ride. I enjoyed almost every minute of it. - Clare Holland

Your ride was outstanding. The support was the best. I can't say I enjoyed every minute of the ride, but that's what makes it so good when you finish an event like that. You have to work hard to appreciate the success of completing 200 miles. - Jeannie Ennis

The volunteers were great and I owe them thanks and I hope you will pass along my gratitude to them. It was a nice ride and a very nice day. Thanks for all your efforts in putting it on. - Gerd Rosenblatt

Thank you an excellent day of cycling, please thank every one who worked behind the scenes to make it possible. I can see why this becomes addictive. I forgot to mention this was my first double century at the finish. I hope to take part in other events but its a long way from sunny, hot Devon, England!!!!!!!! - Thanks, Andrew Carpenter

To echo my bother's comments, another great ride. I never get tired of riding in Death Valley. This was my 6th DVD and I'll be back for more. Right now I am also planning on riding Furnace Creek 508 this year. Many thanks to you and all the people who make the event possible. - Paul Carpenter

Thank you very much for such a nice piece of work at the Death Valley Century. Not having done a Century since 1993, I was a a little hesitant, but everything worked out surprisingly well for me. The food and drink was great in all respects, and the volunteers even better. If I were you, I wouldn't change a thing. You will see me again, thanks. - Mark Walsh

My whole family (including mom, brother, partners, close family friend) came together for this event and cheered us for all 100 miles. The weather and wild flowers made it memorable, indeed. You did a great job of organizing this ride—