Where the women are strong, the men are good looking, and the children are above average.

I'm talking, of course, about North Dakota.

I owe a huge thank you to everyone who helped put on 'The Race to Sunset' this year and the past couple years, especially a gent named Mark Liebig. Every year I go to my homeland to do one race. It does a few things: 1) gives me a chance to see my family and gives them a chance to see me race. 2) It gives me much needed perspective on why I do this sport. 3) Going back home to race also gives me a chance to meet people in that cycling community and it's nice to try and help it grow.

I always get the best reception going home. (I'm a bit biased because they did, in fact, give me my first '1' plate!) Seriously, these guys put on a top-notch, first class race.

Thank you Mark and the entire crew.

I also have to brag a little about my teammates. They're absolutely amazing and killing it. It's been very inspiring to me to be on this team. The girls are all veterans and since I'm the newest pro on the team, I'm learning a bunch from them.

(and yes, I'm the only guy . . . and yes, the girls can put the hammer down on me and make me suffer)

Here's a photo from the end of the 12 hour battle, (actually, cut a bit short due to rain).

Todd Carpenter, #2, is from California and was on his way across country with his wife - so he decided to enter the race. He's a very strong rider, and even a nicer guy!

Until next time,

Kelly