RACER BIO for Lt Roy Collins, USCGR 

 

Occupation  Executive Management
Employer  L-3 Communications, Inc.
College  US Coast Guard Academy (BS); Loyola College (MBA)
How long have you known about RAAM? How long afterwards did you decide to enter the race? What triggered your decision? 
I have known about RAAM since the early 80′s. After being inspired by a worthy cause and having associated with a motivated team, I accepted the RAAM challenge.
Athletic history (cycling results & other): 
Currently, USA Cycling licensed Masters 50+ and certified coach. Like vintage wool clothing, which was a standard in my day, my prior cycling results are memories from the past. While poised for a come-back, my goal is to simply keep pace with my son who has adopted the sport as his own.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? 
Meeting the challenge(s) head on and despite winning or loosing, learning something as a result of the experience.
Who are your heroes? Why? 
My heros are everyday people who are passionate about their lives and live each day as if it were their last.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? 
Knowing that the unexpected will be encountered at any time and anywhere.
Are you supporting an organization or Charity? Tell us why.  
I’m competing in the world’s most respected and longest running annual endurance event to commemorate the sacrifices of all those who have served their country, generate charitable contributions for the Wounded Warrior Project, and make a positive contribution to military recruiting and public relations.
Favorite quote, either famous or not, that fuels your ambition:  
 Just do it!
What are your expectations from RAAM? 
Complete the race within the competitive range, challenge myself to do my best, and expect the unexpected.

 

 

RACER BIO for CAPT Dan S. Schindler, USNR

 

Occupation  Navy Officer, Pilot and Math Instructor
Employer  United States Navy
College  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 have known about RAAM for quite a few years as I had colleagues in another work life participate in the early part of the decade. I didn’t even consider it until I saw that it had changed its finish to Annapolis a couple of years ago which I found intriguing and then this last year, was asked if my son and I wanted to help escort finishers in from the last TS (time station) to City Dock. Though we had a prior commitment, the discussion with Roy Collins to potentially join or field a team began and then a chance meeting with Fred Boethling sealed the deal for me and here we are. Racing For (4) the Military and helping out the WWP (Wounded Warrior Project). Woo-Hoo!!!
Athletic history (cycling results & other): 
I have always participated in running events and even was an active participant in the Tri-Atlantic Triathlon and Coors Duathlon series in the mid-90′s. I have competed in the Marine Corps Marathon and the Blue Angel Marathon and most recently returned to biking while serving as the Officer Representative of the Navy Collegiate Cycling Team. Then, these last two years has gotten me interested in competitive cycling and so I obtained a license, raced in some local events last year and this past year and also am the Junior Team Captain for the ABRT (Annapolis Bicycle Racing Team). I am in this knee deep and loving every minute of it. Goal: Take the podium in some Cat 5 races and move up to Cat 4 early in the season.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? 
Anything Rudy like has always motivated me. I like the underdog and perseverance.
The movie Brian’s Song was very moving for me when I was young.
Lance’s comeback from cancer was huge for me to follow.
ABC’s The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat commercials during the Wide World of Sports.
The 1980 Miracle on Ice U.S. Hockey team victory over Russia.
Peggy’s perseverance to come back from her hip injury and operation.
Who are your heroes? Why? 
- Jesus and my family.
- Wounded Warriors.
- Mother Theresa – Her life story of sacrifice and selfless giving is inspiring. I think to myself if I would ever be able to do a fraction of what she did and I immediately get humbled.
- C.S. Lewis – Mere Christianity is a seminal work.
- Martin Luther King, Jr. – I have a dream is awesome. To live in a time in our country that was culturally divided and be so tenacious and persistent is very inspiring. I have the commemorative U.S. Stamp framed in my house for inspiration and reminders.
- My Uncle Scott – U.S. Marine in the Vietnam War, need I say more.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? 
Logistics, Logistics, Logistics.
Did I say logistics? But…we have an awesome crew chief and total team, so we are working hard to cover the bases and remain flexible for unforeseen circumstances which we are assured will arise.
Are you supporting an organization or Charity? Tell us why.  
We are supporting the Wounded Warrior Project. This seemed like such a good fit as the Navy Cycling Team has supported the White House Soldier Ride the last couple of years as it finished in Annapolis. Meeting the participants on the ride really was inspiring. It could be any one of us and I find it humbling to ride with these great Americans and it makes me reflect on not taking things for granted.
Favorite quote, either famous or not, that fuels your ambition:  
Never let your head hang down. Never give up and sit down and grieve. Find another way. – Satchel Paige
What are your expectations from RAAM? 
To raise the country’s awareness for the Wounded Warrior Project and raise as much money in charitable gifts as possible to further the cause.Also, to be the fastest Military Team and win the Armed Forces Cup.Lastly to have fun and to have the experience of a lifetime.

 

RACER BIO for Capt Kyle Pitman, USMC

 

 Occupation  Officer
 Employer  United States Marine Corps
 College  United States Naval Academy ’00 and University of Maryland ’09
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 for several years and applied to race a few months ago. 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 and the MABRA TT 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 4 Mil 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.

 

RACER BIO for Maj Jim Weinstein, USAF

  

 

 

Jim and Lance take a ride

 

Occupation  Dietitian
Employer  US Air Force
College  Rutgers and University of Connecticut
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 for what seems like forever but I’ve always figured it was just too hard. I needed a good reason to put myself into this and then I heard about the cause our team was raising money for and it was a perfect fit! I served a tour in Iraq and worked at a Hospital in Balad and saw so many wounded American and Coalition forces. I’ve always wanted to do more and feel really good about this commitment.
Athletic history (cycling results & other): 
I’ve raced competitively for more than a decade. Although I’ve lost count over the years I think I have about 20 wins and probably a couple dozen top 10 placings in races over the years. I”m a Cat 2 racer and a Level 2 Coach for USA Cycling.
Considering all sports, what were the events or outcomes that most impacted your life in both negative and positive manners? 
Although I’ve always loved cycling I think the biggest “impact” events I’ve done was actually working as a member of the Alpine Search and Rescue Team for the Pikes Peak Mountain Marathon. The pain and commitment these runners were putting themselves through was amazing!
Who are your heroes? Why? 
I’ve always looked up to Lance Armstrong–he won the Tour, beat cancer, won the Tour again (many times) and is probably the single most important force in the world at raising money and awareness to coalesce efforts to beat cancer. Of course my wife is my real hero–without her support my crazy endeavors would never happen.
What intimidates you most about RAAM? 
I’m not intimidated I’m excited.
Are you supporting an organization or Charity? Tell us why.  
We are riding to support the Wounded Warrrior Foundation and the money we raise goes to an amazingly important charity.
Favorite quote, either famous or not, that fuels your ambition:  
“Feed the warrior another 20 pounds” by Lance Armstrong in a Nike Commercial
What are your expectations from RAAM? 
I expect it to kick my butt!