Monday morning, May 5, 2006, my wife Teresa, new crewmember Scott Campbell, and official Harold Trease were north of Oroville, WA at the Canadian border. I would attempt to break Jim Trout's existing WA north to south record of 13:59 hours for 259.3 miles (18.5 mph average speed). The weather was anything but ideal for a record attempt. 20 - 30 mph cross winds were forecast for most of the route.

I climbed aboard my TitanFlex and departed as planned at 7:00 a.m. The first 50 miles flew by quite enjoyably with light and variable winds and an average speed of just under 25. My average speed had dropped to 23.1 mph when I reached the bottom of the route's longest climb of 17 miles. As winds began to increase across my back I got to the top without a big drop in my pace.

I had decided to attempt a state record mainly for training purposes, but also to experience the sense of competition. I hadn't really raced since RAAM 2003.

Unfortunately, the troubles began way too early. At the top the cross-winds began to build as expected, forcing me into my aero position. No more than 150 miles in, the pain in my neck was growing stronger by the mile. Spirits dropped along with my head as my vulnerable neck revealed its weaknesses. At 6:49 p.m. I crossed the Oregon State border on Highway 730 south of Wallula.

Though we made it across the state and set a new record of 11:49 at an average speed of 22.43 mph the result may be the last I post. Upon my return home and an attempt to wear the neck brace on my next training ride it was all too evident that doing the majority of RAAM in the Traction Contraption was not a wise, practical or to say the least, desirable choice.

Thursday I left a message for spinal surgeon and past RAAM competitor Dr John Small regarding my concerns. By Friday night I reluctantly and decided to accept the reality that RAAM and my neck were not going to get along too well. I was very disappointed to realize that retirement was the only sane choice. Saturday morning Dr. Small returned my call with the intent of advising me against RAAM and any future ultra cycling competition as I was already at high risk for surgery. Though this did add a degree of confirmation and finality to my decision, it didn't make it any easier to accept. Fortunately there are many other activities I can and do enjoy and now I have time to pursue many of them.

The UltraMarathon Cycling Association - an international organization that oversees long-distance amateur cycling events - certified him as the UMCA Washington north to south record holder. Harold Trease, the UMCA official, observed his ride to ensure that he complied with all cycling regulations and traffic laws.

Official Record: 257.6 miles in 11 hours 49 minutes, average speed of 21.8 mph
Start: Canada/Washington border on Highway 97 north of Oroville.
Finish: Washington-Oregon border on Highway 730 south of Wallula.