19th Annual Tour de Phoenix

April 10th,2010-El Tour de Phoenix. This was the 19th annual ride benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The ride is sponsered by the Perimeter Bicycling Association of America. I haven't ridden the ride in several years since my battle with Hairy Cell Leukemia and Non-Hodgekins B-Cell Lymphoma. By Gods grace I am in remission from both cancers and back on the bike and riding, but not up to riding the 72 mile distance of the tour. Sheri and her riding partner Terry were riding today. The Tour begins in Mesa at Red Mountain Park, through Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Fort McDowell Indian Reservation past Saguaro Lake, along the Salt River, up and over Usery Pass and back to Red Mountain Park. The desert portion of this ride is probably some of the most scenic and beautiful desert in Arizona. 1400+ Riders participated this year raising over $30,000 for the Desert Chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Sheri was the 2nd. highest fundraiser with just over $2,000 in donations! Thats my girl!
The tour is well publicized so residents are aware of road closures, law enforcement was present at all intersections giving the bicyclist the right of way.
Motor Officers escorted the lead riders as well as following in the last rider.
End of the ride.

Tired and sore cyclists' took advantage of the many massage therapists offering their service.
Many vendors were present and doing well.
Sheri and Terry at the finish.
Showing off the hardware.
Sheri receiving the Conquistador Trophy for being the second highest fundraiser.
Mens first place was Clay Murfet of Youngtown, Tazmania a few thousand miles from home. Womens first place Erica Allar from Charlotte, North Carolina. Clay's time was 2:51:28 with Erica's time being 2:52:42, dang fast for both of them.
One of the many bike shops and vendor displays.
Beautiful weather, awesome scenery and a great course and gracious donors made for another successful Tour de Phoenix benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Desert Chapter.
Congratulations to Sheri with her fund raising efforts with donations coming from those who are near and dear to us, thank you,

May God Bless you in your journeys, Sly