Wes Wilmer racing north on US 11 across Virginia.

On October 1^st  2006 at 6 a.m., I completed a 333-mile record attempt from Bristol, TN to just north of Winchester, VA at the West Virginia state line. I rode mostly on Route 11 through Virginia, which has over 20,000 feet of climbing hidden among hundreds of big and small momentum-breaking rollers. Along the way, I dealt with over 70 well-timed traffic lights and stop signs.

The weather was mostly cloudy and cool. A wonderful tailwind helped me to average over 20 miles per hour for the first half of the ride. Unfortunately the expected cold front set in bringing with it a headwind that slowed my pace.

Wilmer riding into the night on his Virginia record.

Including the half dozen stops for food, clothing changes, etc. I was able to complete the ride in 19 hours and 22 minutes beating the old record by more than an hour. Having a record to go after gave the ride more purpose for me since there was something to shoot for. The previous record was set 17 years ago when clipless pedals and aero bars were new advances in cycling because of Greg Lemondís Tour de France dramatic win.

My three person crew that made the event possible was outstanding. They provided great nutritional support, navigation, and lighting ñ without running over the rider. With his RAAM experience, James Rosar was a benefit
to the other two enthusiastic rookie crew members.

Thanks to my bride Elizabeth who supports my cycling fitness goals. With a daughter coming in January, I will soon
be trying a different kind of sleep deprivation training. Thanks also to Will Boylan who served as the UMCA official.

Chan Elder, Wes Wilmer and James Rosar.