Team Roster:
- Wayne Dowd
- Kyle Pitman
- James Weinstein
- Jimmy Colgary
- Alan Fischer
- Jason Peterson
- Chad Connor
- Shawn Olin
- Carlos Ferrer
- Matthew Burt
- Darryl Grissom
- Billy Edwards
- Michael Ahlers
Rider Captain: Name, Rank: CPO Wayne K. Dowd, US Navy (SEAL) retired
Occupation: Senior Military Analyst
Employer: Booz Allen Hamilton
College: St. Leo
Military Experience
U.S. Navy Special Operations (SEAL) 21 years
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision?
I have known and followed the RAAM since the late 80′s. Given my desire to continually push and test myself in all facets of life, one of the events that I had yet to compete in is the RAAM. After following Team 4Mil in 2010, I realized that what they were about was a great thing and made it my mission to become part of it and them, assist in bringing awareness to the Wounded Warrior Project while racing in the hardest endurance race in the world.
Athletic history (cycling results & other):
Currently, USA Cycling licensed Cat 3 Masters 45+ racer with a primary focus on Time Trailing. I have been racing bicycles for as long as I can remember, from BMX to Cross. My athletic history includes holding an International license and racing in Europe (amateur level), competing in Double Iron-mans on a bet, one day adventure racing, Military Racing and circuit races (crits), Time Trials and Road Races.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners?
In racing, you lose more then you win, but when you do win, be kind to the ones you have defeated. They will always remember the way you acted and treated them, act like you’ve been there before. If you lose, TRY HARDER NEXT TIME….
Who are your heroes? Why?
Any man willing to lay down his life not for his own gain, but in the defense and protection of our country and his fellow brothers are the fiercest Warriors our country has. It matters not the rank, branch or age, it is all about who he is as a man. Many Warriors have been laid to rest and many more shall be. They are willing to do that for the betterment of our society and the safety of their brother Warriors and Country.
What intimidates you most about RAAM?
HILLS…BIG HILLS…
Favorite quote, either famous or not, that fuels your ambition:
Embrace the suck; it will only make you stronger…
What are your expectations from RAAM?
Like everyone else’s: compete, maybe win with the assistance of the entire TEAM, remind myself that I’m still alive, meet new and interesting people, and break my legs off on the bike.
Kyle Pitman
Name, Rank: Capt Kyle Pitman, US Marine Corps
Occupation: Officer
Employer: United States Marine Corps
College: United States Naval Academy ’00 and University of Maryland ’09
Military Experience (short version of key experiences)
Deployed to Iraq (’03 and ’04-’05). Communications Officer
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision?
I was the rider captain of the 2010 RAAM team, raced on the 2011 RAAM team and want to prove just how well and how fast service members can race at this distance. I want to give back to our wounded warriors and experience the physical challenge.
Athletic history (cycling results & other):
I was a rower at Navy and switched to bikes for relief from always going backwards. Currently a CAT 4, past MABRA TT Champion and current MABRA MATTS Champion.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners?
Winning a state championship in ice hockey as a kid, beating teams we hadn’t all season because of teamwork and focus. Success in any endeavor is more about mental focus and attitude then you or nearly anyone thinks.
Who are your heroes? Why?
Anyone who puts service before self and my Father.
What intimidates you most about RAAM?
The logistics and the unpredictable nature of the race…but I love the challenge as well.
Are you supporting an organization or Charity? Tell us why.
Team 4Mil is supporting the Wounded Warrior Project. I’ve done two tours in Iraq and want to continue to support our brothers and sisters who have sacrificed for the rest of us.
Favorite quote, either famous or not, that fuels your ambition:
“It doesn’t get any easier, you just get faster” GL
What are your expectations from RAAM?
Significant donations to the WWP, logistics challenges, great scenery, an awesome team, and lifelong friendships.
Name, Rank: James L. Weinstein, Major
Occupation: Dietitian
Employer: United States Air Force
College: Rutgers University (BS), Webster University (MBA), and University of Connecticut (MS, PhD)
Military Experience: Over the past decade, I’ve worked as a clinical dietitian at both small and large military medical centers, moved into Sports Nutrition and earned my Board Certification in Sports Nutrition. One of the most rewarding jobs I’ve had in the military was as the US Air Force Academy base dietitian as well as the Coach for the Cycling Team. I have been deployed to Iraq and participated in humanitarian operations in Honduras. I did a one year internship at the Pentagon working on the “E” ring and am now a Division Chief for Medical Operational Test of equipment and IM/IT systems. I’m lucky enough to be stationed at one of the prime cycling locations in the US, Frederick, MD.
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? I’ve known about RAAM most of my life but I only became interested in it in the last few years. Honestly, the solo RAAM seems a little too crazy for me. The Team division has the perfect mix of logistical complexity and required teamwork, fitness and luck to make it interesting! The challenge, teammates and wounded warriors are the draw for me.
Athletic History: I was never really good at anything sports related until I sat on a bike. I started racing as a Junior more than 20 years ago! I’ve had the opportunity to race a wide variety of events from small-town criteriums to NRC invite stage races. I’ve moved through the ranks and have recently enjoyed racing in the Masters and 35+ fields here on the East coast.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? The most “prolific” moment of my sporting and professional life was watching the 1982 Ironman on ABC Wide World of Sports and watching Julie Moss collapse from exhaustion just a few yards from the finish line and get passed. The moment was both haunting and beautiful in terms of its effect on my life and how hard I work to accomplish things. You can see the video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbWsQMabczM
Who are your heroes? Why? We go to sleep safely at night because braver men and women than I chose to give up a life of comfort and safety for one of danger, honor, and courage. My heroes are the men and women who have come home from battle scared permanently from the scabs of war, or wrapped peacefully in the flag they stood to defend. My heroes are the warriors who were wounded and killed in battle—that made sure that I could enjoy the freedom of competing in an event like RAAM in a country so free and wonderful.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? Well, this is my third year at the Team event. The honest truth is, the part that scares me most about this race is the chance of making a mistake and getting killed. With cross winds, dangerous roads, crazy drivers, coupled with exhaustion and a drive to win….it’s a dangerous mix that has me and our team consistently focused on safety.
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition: Success is the good fortune that comes from aspiration, desperation, perspiration, and inspiration. –E Esar and a quote I heard from a good friend. “In the end, everything will be ok. So if it’s not ok, it ain’t the end!”
What are your expectations from RAAM? I’ll show you…but you’ll have to keep up!
Name, Rank: Jimmy Colgary, LT (USN)
Occupation: Submarine Officer
Employer: United States Navy
College: USNA 2005, NPS 2006
Military Experience: I have been active duty Navy for six years and served on both coasts. After completing a post-graduate degree in Systems Engineering, I attended Naval Nuclear Power Training in preparation to become a Submarine Officer. Prior to reporting to my first Submarine, the USS MICHIGAN (SSGN-727), I qualified as a Navy SCUBA Diver. On board the USS MICHIGAN, I participated in two western Pacific deployments, engaging in all aspects of Submarine operations with multiple underways testing new SSGN technologies. Currently, I am a Physics instructor at the United States Naval Academy.
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? I only heard of RAAM two years ago when talking to a fellow cyclist and Submariner. The whole idea excited me and led me to search for a team when I transferred to the East Coast for Shore Duty. It’s great luck that I ended up working down the hall from CAPT Dan Schindler. After seeing the team train and race during RAAM 2011, I knew I had to be a part of the action in 2012.
Athletic History: Since college I’ve been seeking active sports in the pursuit of new challenges. In college I focused on Lacrosse, leaving little time for much else. Upon graduation, I began pursuing more adventure in hiking, mountaineering, adventure racing, and cycling. Only in the past year have I taken on the challenge of competitive cycling. The pursuit of RAAM sparked a deep desire to reach a level to compete on an elite racing team. Not without hard work and desire (and a $ investment) – I’m on my way to making my mark on the cycling world!
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? I grew up playing all those “hand-eye coordination sports,” relying on natural ability to take me to the next level. In college I l saw the necessity of hard work and true sport dedication to break into the elite game. Beyond college I learned how important a strong personal drive is to succeed. No longer did I have a coach breathing down my neck…it was all on me. Some of the most humbling moments I have had in sports have been on the bike. Those moments are just what I need to fuel my fire!
Who are your heroes? Why? Those we ride for and those serving our country today.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? Although I have participated tough events – never have I experienced an event quite like RAAM. Five and a half days of repeated 100% percent efforts is no doubt going to take its toll. I just hope my body can keep up with my will to win!
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition: Never Back Down!
What are your expectations from RAAM? As a crew member last year, I had the opportunity to experience the race – but, as a racer I know I will gain a whole new appreciation for the bike, the other racers, and my own athletic achievement. I’m here to realize my goals and shatter personal beasts. I’m here to represent our wounded veterans and all members of our armed services. And finally, I’m here to win with Team 4Mil!
Name, Rank: 2LT Alan Fischer
Occupation: Aviation Platoon Leader and OH-58D Kiowa Warrior pilot
Employer: United States Army
College: US Military Academy at West Point
Military Experience: I enlisted for active duty in 2004 as an armament technician for Apache helicopters, attended the US Military Academy Prep School, and graduated from West Point in 2010. I am currently serving on active duty as a platoon leader and pilot in 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, GA.
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? Jim Weinstein has been a friend, coach, and mentor for several years. I first heard about RAAM when he tried to convince me to join him on Team4Mil two years ago. I followed the team closely last year, hoping to see a win. For 2012, I really wanted to be part of the effort that put Team4Mil atop the podium!
Athletic History: I swam in high school, then moved to running, got my first bike when I joined the Army, and started racing triathlons. When I got to West Point, I picked up cross-country skiing (despite being from Florida!) and marathoning, and joined the cycling team my second year. I started racing my bike both with the team and individually and found I had a talent for it. I also started racing ultra-marathons about the same time. Finally, in 2008, Jim Weinstein convinced me to focus on cycling. Despite some periods when I was forced away from cycling (like when I had a cast, so I went back to running and met Jordan – now my wife – when we were both out on a run!), I just cannot stay away from the bike!
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? One of my prized possessions is a jacket from the 2008 Boston Marathon. After my first marathon in 2006, I was determined to qualify for Boston with my second. Doing so was a completely objective goal, and I talked about it to everyone who would listen. On race day, there would be no excuses – it was simply success or failure – and the result would reflect only my level of training, dedication, and determination. I set a difficult goal, worked hard, and achieved it.
Who are your heroes? Why? Those I respect most are the individuals who excel when faced with extreme adversity. Cycling and military service have brought me close to several men and women who have found themselves up against seemingly insurmountable odds, and yet that only fuels their fire. Our wounded warriors exemplify this mindset. I am also forever indebted to the men and women who have paid the ultimate price on our behalf, as well as to their families. I will always remember such heroes as my friend Tim Steele, who was killed in Afghanistan this year.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? The prospect of letting down my teammates. Regardless of the challenge, nothing scares me more.
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition: On a miserable rainy day, a cyclist at West Point asked Ben Showman, who was heading out the door, “How hard is it raining?” Ben replied in a cheesy joking tone “What I want to know is how hard are you?” Since then, I’ve asked myself the same question every time something has almost kept me from going out and training.
What are your expectations from RAAM? To win a very exhausting, painful, well-earned victory.
Name, Rank: Jason Peterson, Captain
Occupation: United States Air Force Civil Engineer Officer
Employer: USAF
College: California State University, Fresno (BS); Colorado School of Mines (MS)
Military Experience: As a Civil Engineer Officer in United States Air Force since 2004 I build stuff! I’ve built stuff in Iraq and Afghanistan working with the US Army and NATO Forces and learned that service men and women, in all services, in all of our coalition partners, have one thing in common: a love for their country actualized by being part of something greater than themselves. I’ve met some awesome people and done some amazing things in my short career and consider myself blessed to be riding the roller coaster.
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? I’m a newcomer to the world of RAAM. A teammate of mine named Adam Kruse was on the inaugural Team 4MIL and that’s when I started following it and decided it was an amazing event! Earlier this year I was on a century ride with my good friend and 2012 Team 4MIL teammate Chad Connor and he suggested we both apply. The timing coincided perfectly with my life plans and racing goals and apparently some things are meant to be… so here I am!
Athletic History: I’ve come down a twisted and rocky path to end up as a cyclist. Perhaps that’s why I love riding my mountain bike? I grew up racing motocross and swimming, then played rugby in college. I got into triathlons when I joined the Air Force and did my first race on my mountain bike. I became fanatically obsessed (as is my style) and was lucky enough to be on the US Air Force Triathlon Team and Team USA in 2009. However through all that I realized that I’m a pretty slow runner and, with the help of some friends who later would be teammates, I did my first criterium that same year and never looked back. Currently I’m a USAC Category 2 road racer who loves to throw down in big crits. This year I had field finishes at two USA Crits professional criteriums and a few other large regional races as well as a few local podiums.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? I’ve had plenty of opportunity to learn from my mistakes but one good example is when I played American football in high school for a brief period only because all the cool kids seemed to be doing it and I wanted to elevate my social status. I really didn’t like it and was not a good teammate. I realized one night while riding the pine during a big game that one has to pursue goals in life for the right reasons and my priorities were screwed up. Do what you love and love what you do! The rest will fall into place naturally! Since then there have been a lot of positives… some of my favorite in form of arms raised across the finish line by my teammates who I delivered to the finish line!
Who are your heroes? Why? My Dad! He’s a self-made man who puts love above his own interests. I’ve never met a finer human being. I’m floored by anyone who has to courage to follow their dreams and the selflessness to give them up for another person.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? I like to read books, but I also get carsick when I read…
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition: It contains an expletive, so find me at the finish line and I’ll tell you over a beer if you really want to know.
What are your expectations from RAAM? Ride fast and win.
Name, Rank: Chad Connor, Maj
Occupation: Pediatric Cardiologist / Electrophysiologist
Employer: United States Air Force (Wright-Patterson AFB)
College: USAF Academy (1998), Harvard Medical School (2002)
Military Experience: Pediatric Resident, Travis AFB, CA (2002-2005); Pediatric Cardiologist / Electrophysiologist, WPAFB, OH (2008-present); Chief Consultant for Pediatric Cardiology to the AF Surgeon General (2010-present)
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? I heard about RAAM many years ago and have always followed it. I followed it more closely 2 years ago when an old friend and teammate, Jim Weinstein, raced it for Team4Mil. I knew right away that I wanted to do that race someday. I’ve always loved the idea of racing across country, and what a fantastic charitable reason to do so. I’m finally in a good professional and personal position to do so—so I had to jump on the chance.
Athletic History: Academic All-WAC Cross-Country 1997; 2000 Ironman World Championships qualifier; 2002 ECCC points standing–#3 overall; 2:32 debut / PR marathon in 2006
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? Running has always been humbling because I was told I’d never be any good at it—and that’s been a source of determination and focus. Cycling has been a love for both the thrill of the ride and the camaraderie of teamwork.
Who are your heroes? Why? I don’t know that I have any true heroes in life. I respect a lot of people for the good things they do, but I’ve also come to realize that we’re all human beings and we have flaws, so it’s hard to hold anyone to a “hero” standard.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? Saddle sores—never had them, but would prefer not to have my first on RAAM.
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition: “You can’t run a race, the pace is too fast, you just won’t last.” –Linkin Park.
What are your expectations from RAAM? Awesome teamwork experience, fun fundraising effort, awesome race.
Name, Rank: Shawn Patrick Olin, E6-USN
Occupation: Aerographers Mate 1st Class (AG1) AKA “Weather Forecaster”
Employer: United States Navy, Active Duty
Military Experience: Nearly 18 years of active duty. Several deployments (been on every continent except Antarctica.) Stationed in Italy 3 years. 4-time member elite military cycling team.
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? Being active in the cycling community, I have known about RAAM for 15 years. I never wanted to tackle RAAM solo, but after hearing about Team 4Mil riders and crew, I jumped at the opportunity!
Athletic History: Racing bikes since 1998. Upgraded to Cat1 in 2003. Raced for US Armed Forces Cycling Team (2003-2006), Dewalt Cycling (2007), Specialized Factory (2008), Ouch Pro Cycling (2009-Present) and US Military Cycling Team (2011). 7 California State Championships. TT Record-holder at Fiesta Island (20K TT; Home of the Worlds First Triathlon). Currently dabbling in multisports of duathlon and triathlon. I also volunteer for the San Diego Blind Stokers Club as the Captain of a tandem for a visually impaired teen.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? Being born and raised in Wisconsin to a hockey family, I could skate 3 days before I could walk. I started playing hockey at the age of 3. This built up a high aerobic capacity, pain threshold, and massive quads from an early age which translated well to cycling. I raced track all through high school and fell in love with the suffering involved with pushing the endurance envelope. After discovering mountain bike racing in 1998, I dove head-long into cycling and became really fast living and competing in Italy.
Who are your heroes? Why? My dad for his unwavering faithfulness, and my kids for their love and support.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? Although the distance and time is daunting, with the crew and riders we have in place, I have very little fear regarding the race.
Favorite quote (famous or not) that fuels your ambition: “Run from those demons, baby!” – Anon (Overheard at a race)
What are your expectations from RAAM? Experience the camaraderie of Team 4Mil, take on the challenges that the race offers, and raise awareness for the Wounded Warrior Project.
Name, Rank: Carlos J. Ferrer, Capt
Occupation: Developmental Engineer
Employer: United States Air Force
College: St. Mary’s University
Military Experience: I joined the United States Air Force in 2003 with a commission from University of Puerto Rico. Soon there after, I started my military career as a developmental engineer for C-17s at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. During that assignment I met my wife who is also an active duty officer. After three years at Wright-Patt, the Air Force moved me to Lackland AFB, Texas as a recruiting flight commander. Recruiting was a great tour for me, as I met a lot of great people, some of which were wounded soldiers recuperating at the Center for the Intrepid in San Antonio, TX. Four years later, I returned to my career field as an engineer, but this time as a space systems professional at Los Angeles AFB where I am currently responsible for testing every single Air Force satellite, from GPS to Communications.
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? I only recently learned about RAAM and Team 4Mil, but it didn’t take me long to recognize the team’s amazing contribution to the Wounded Warrior Project. That was the main reason I decided to join the team: to honor those that gave everything they had for our freedom and to show those that are still with us how much we appreciate their sacrifices, and their love and dedication to our nation.
Athletic History: I started racing triathlons in 2008 and have been an active athlete ever since. During my first year of competition, I participated in over 14 races ranging from sprint distance to Ironman 70.3. Today I concentrate in the Ironman distance, but I also enjoy cross training by participating in marathons throughout the year. Some of most recent races include: Longhorn 70.3 Ironman, The Las Vegas 70.3 Triathlon, Wildflower 70.3 Triathlon, San Juan Ironman 70.3, and Western Australia Ironman. During those races I averaged a cycling speed of 21mph on distances that ranged from 56 to 112 miles.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? Triathlons have impacted my life in a very positive way as it not only changed my life, but also allowed me to serve as an inspiration to others. In the last three years I have transformed from someone who was barely able to run 2 miles to someone that, as of today, has motivated dozens of other people to improve their eating habits and adopt healthier lifestyles. Some of those individuals are today training for their first marathons or their first Ironmans.
Who are your heroes? Why? My heroes are the American Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, and Sailors who selflessly give their hearts and souls and in some cases even their lives to defend our nation. These courageous warriors walk to harm’s way everyday to preserve our way of life and protect each and everyone of us. Sometimes, they experience victory, sometimes they lose the battle… but every time they lose a little piece of themselves in the battlefield… sometimes figuratively, sometimes literally. However, the American soldier doesn’t ask for fame, or riches; they simply want to see our flag waive on the land of the free and the home of the brave.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? The most intimidating part is to be able to race for five continuous days with minimum sleep and be able to perform at my best
Favorite quote (famous or not) that fuels your ambition: “What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?”
What are your expectations from RAAM? Camaraderie and support
Name, Rank: Matthew Burt, SrA
Occupation: Air Traffic Controller
Employer: United States Air Force
College: Associates Degree from Community College of the Air Force in Air Operations and Management
Military Experience: Enlisted in June 10, 2008. I spent four months on the base Honor Guard, won the AMC Honor Guard of the Year, and have spent my whole career in Grand Forks, North Dakota
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? I have only known about RAAM for 4 months. Three to four days after finding out about the race, I wanted to race in it. People told me I would not be able to race RAAM, and I wanted to prove them wrong. I also want to prove that with enough hard work and dedication anything can be accomplished.
Athletic History: 2010 North Dakota State Road Race, Individual Time Trial and Criterium Champion; 2008 Daytona Beach Area Grand Prix Champion, and 2010 Mother’s Day Stage Race Champion.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? The experience I gained from racing in the Tour of America’s Dairyland stage race is invaluable, and my results from the Minneapolis Duathlon’s Time Trial demonstrate how much I continue to grow each year being the race course never changes. The knowledge I gain from both of these events helps build my confidence going into the following years.
Who are your heroes? Why? My father is my hero. In 2006, he was unable to run a mile. He now runs ultra marathons (24 hour races) and raced in the Boston Marathon this year. In five short years he turned his health around and is one of my biggest supporters and reasons why I race.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? The sheer size of this event is what intimidates me the most, along with the level of athletes that will be racing this.
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition: Life’s short skip often-Father
What are your expectations from RAAM? I am looking forward to the experience of it, and I am hoping to gain lots of knowledge from the other racers, so I can be better prepared for next year’s race.
Name, Rank: Daryl “Gus” Grissom
Occupation: High School Teacher
Employer: Flint Hill School, Oakton VA
College: UNC-Chapel Hill, BA; The Catholic University of America, M.A., University of Maryland at College Park, PhD (in progress)
Military Experience: I spent about ten years as a Communications Officer in the USMC, serving with units of all types, from artillery and infantry to communications battalions and Marine Corps University.
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? I’ve heard of the RAAM as long as I’ve been doing endurance sports, pretty much my whole life. I was encouraged to consider working with Team 4Mil by my friend and coach, Jim Weinstein, after the team had so much success in last year’s event.
Athletic History (cycling results & other): I’ve been doing the “endurance sports” my whole life, from high school cross country to ultramarathons, from cycling to and from school to racing Masters’ events in the MABRA region. I’ve also competed in Ironman competitions on the USMC Triathlon Team that represented Camp Pendleton. I would say that a huge percentage of my life thus far has been spent exploring the next endurance challenge.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? The greatest impact from an athletic event was when I was unceremoniously cut from the Cross Country team at UNC-CH. I had been a big fish in a little pond in my hometown and this event taught me that there is always a bigger fish (and probably lots of bigger fish) out there. Plus it gave me to opportunity to try out for the UNC Fencing team, which I made and through which I met a completely different set of athletes and athletic challenges. The lesson was that it is all about adapting and overcoming, not just giving up and saying “well, I tried…”
Who are your heroes? Why? Right now my favorite athlete hero is on the Cycling ProTour, George Hincapie. In my mind he is the model of a selfless teammate and leader. It is rare to see a race that one of his teammates wins that cannot be directly attributed to some selfless act “Big George” puts out there. Without Hincapie, I think we’d be saying “Lance who?”
What intimidates you most about RAAM? I love to climb the mountain roads on my bike; however, I’ve heard there are some wicked descents on the other side. I’m really more into the “going up” thing; going down is a white-knuckle, cheek-clenching series of moments for me.
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition: “One man is much the same as the other. He is best who is trained in the severest school.” –Thucydides
What are your expectations from RAAM? To win in record time. If we’re not going to expect that, why bother?
Name, Rank: Billy Edwards (formerly Capt, USMC)
Occupation: Professional Triathlete and Coach
Employer: Mostly self-employed and Naval Academy Athletic Association
College: United States Naval Academy, Class of 2000
Military Experience: Marine Corp Infantry Officer (2000-06), Platoon Commander and Company XO during initial phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, then a Ground Mishap Investigator 2004-06.
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? I have long been intrigued by RAAM due to the ABC Wide World of Sports Coverage (much like watching Ironman Hawaii on TV). However, I never likened to the idea of going solo. In 2010, I saw Team4Mil provide so many incentives- teaming up with great riders with hard-nosed military backgrounds who are riding for the team but also for a good cause in the Wounded Warrior Project. As a former Marine turned uber athlete I could not ask for a better scenario for doing RAAM.
Athletic History: I have run my entire life to include through high school and college and then on the Marine Marathon and Cross Country teams. In 2005, I followed my dreams of ironman triathlons and did well in my first couple years, turning professional in 2007 and leaving the Marine Corps. I have done 15 ironmans, all under 10 hours with numerous top 10s and 2 professional appearances in Kona. In 2011, I began ultra cycling and finished as the second U.S. rider at the long running Paris-Brest-Paris 1200k in August of 2011, 1230 kilometers in 48:46.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? The Marines always drove me physically whether in the field, doing PT, or pushing myself in an actual race where Marine Corps was on my jersey. The teammates and people I have met through military and sport are still great friends and supporters. In 2005, I attended a triathlon camp where I met a great group of athletes who literally changed my life. Their guidance thrust me into many great performances in triathlon and a professional athletic and coaching career. I also met my wife at the camp, not a bad week!
Who are your heroes? Why? I don’t have any heroes, but I try to surround myself with individuals who have the consistent desire and drive to achieve the best for themselves or their teams whether in work or play, military or sport.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? Nothing! It’s gonna be tough, I am going to suffer for a long time, can’t wait!
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition: No quotes, my ambition is to have fun in my way.
What are your expectations from RAAM? I expect that I will have so much fun and it will hurt so much that I am going to want to do it again. However, an experience like this with the kinds of people Team 4Mil are putting together for such a great cause in the Wounded Warriors, I have my doubts that it will be something capable of duplication.
Name, Rank: Michael Ahlers, Civilian
Occupation: Software Engineer
Employer: (Private.)
College: Duquesne University
Military Experience:
None. But I often address people as “sir.” (I get lots of practice with these uniformed folks who keep appearing at my driver-side window.)
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision?
I first learned about RAAM when my coach, Major James Weinstein, participated in 2010. After watching Team 4Mil arrive second place in the 2011 edition, I was gripped. 3,000 miles. Five days. I could imagine how incredible all the racers must have felt. Eventually, I told coach: “I want to race with your team, and train for that until someone tells me ‘no.’” I did what I could to set things in motion, then, come October, and Wayne Dowd called me up to say “yes.”
Athletic History:
I got serious about cycling in 2004. During eight years of competition, I have come back from major setbacks, but I also have many success stories to tell. My favorite comes from the 2010 Reston Town Center Grand Prix. I still swear, even after breaking my collarbone not long after, that it was my most painful experience, on or off the bike. The win slipped away, but the great sense of accomplishment came from knowing how deeply I could dig when it really mattered. Aside from competitive results, I am proud of the charitable contributions (among them, raising money with the Lance Armstrong Foundation for the fight against cancer) my closest friend and I have made with our talents in this sport.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners?
My first race, the 2004 Tysons Corner Circuit Race, went terribly! But I came out of the event absolutely determined to reach my greatest heights in cycling.
Who are your heroes? Why?
Mom. With all she has done to raise three kids—after losing her husband to cancer—she is the toughest person I know. To this day, she works hard and gives generously to those around her. There are others, but they know who they are, and I should resist embarrassing them!
What intimidates you most about RAAM?
Whether I can get enough sleep! But, for that, we have melatonin, eye masks, earplugs… In all serious, I feel confident about the race. My chief concern, in light of this incredible opportunity with Team 4Mil, is living up to the expectations of my crew and teammates.
Favorite quote that fuels your ambition:
In his autobiography, Lance Armstrong wrote that the “unthinking simplicity in something so hard” as cycling lends to the “idea that all … athletes are actually running away from something.” Cycling helps me let go; I forget about stress, and focus on the ride. After training or racing, I feel stronger both mentally and physically. Other challenges in life seem to get their volume turned down.
What are your expectations from RAAM?
To arrive in Annapolis knowing that damn near anything is possible.
