I did it -- 100 MILES!

I did it! I rode my bike 100 miles in the American Cancer Society Bike-a-thon on July 13th, 2008 – and became the youngest rider in the 36 year history of the event to do it.

The day started early. I had to get up at 5 a.m. Our team picture was at 6:15 a.m. and the ride started at 6:55.

The ride across the Ben Franklin Bridge was fun. I went faster this year than I did before.

We (my dad rode with me) skipped the first rest stop and peddled on to the second where we took a short break.

Then it was back to peddling. But it got really windy, so it slowed us down.

We got to the third rest stop in time to check in for the Century Loop! While we were there we had lunch – a cool PB&J sandwich with no crust.

At the next rest stop we refilled our water bottles and CamelBaks and it was on to the Century Loop.

The Century Loop was lonely. We only saw 8 other riders the whole time. At the last rest stop they were really surprised to see me. I guess they didn’t think a 12-year-old could ride so far.

Then it was on to the finish line. The course got really hilly, but I didn’t care. I was determined to finish. And I did.

I crossed the finish line just before 3:00 p.m. – even before some of the other riders.

After we finished they gave me a special patch for finishing the Century Loop.

And after a quick bite, it was off to the pool and mini-golf.

Then we went home.

Kate