Thursday - Nerves started to intrude our thoughts and group chat messages, as air quality concerns put the event in question. Will it happen? What Air Quality Health Index is safe to ride at? Isn't it too soon to face another mass health and safety concern after Covid?

Friday - RTCC confirmed we were ON. Nerves spiked again, but this time they were the kind that come with amazing excitement and anticipation for what's ahead.

Saturday - Thousands of riders gathered for an 8:30am start. We heard from inspiring speakers about the profound difference our fundraising efforts make in the lives of countless Canadians. It was a powerful message that played back throughout the 95km ride to Hamilton. We arrived at McMaster camp, enjoyed a well-deserved beer, and even some complimentary massages.

Sunday - Sore butts and 5am wakeup is not typically a good recipe for Sunday morning, save for this one. After fueling up on pancakes and egg bites (which surprisingly received rave reviews) we were on the road, ready to make the most of the day. We ran into familiar faces and made new friends along each pit stop, giving each other encouragement to keep going until 123km was behind us.

Other noteworthy highlights from the weekend:

1. Joseph completed his first-ever ride!! Rumor is he was almost ticketed for going too fast.

2. Zach managed to get a good night's sleep in a single bed that could not have fit his 16 year old self.

3. Jacob not only made it injury-free, but made it back in time to write the bar exam.

4. Beca was head of safety committee and is proud to say everyone had a safe ride.

5. Last but certainly not least, we were greeted by the best cheerleaders at the Niagara finish line.