California Coast Classic - Day 8

Today, on the eighth and final day of the 2015 CCC, the riders covered 56.2 miles from Ventura to Santa Monica. Unfortunately, Austin and I both started the day with less energy than we would have liked. Though our boys are usually good campers, the little guy had a bit of a rough night last night. I spent at least an hour around midnight walking with him as far from the other tents as possible so that I didn't keep the whole camp up!

After we saw Austin off on his final day of biking, I headed to the finish line to help with setup. In my desire to be helpful, I stupidly did way more physical labor than I should have. I moved probably 20 cases of soda and single-handedly set up bike racks for 300 bikes!! So by the time the riders arrived I was beyond exhausted and sore, which wasn't very smart of me.

But, as always, it was amazing and emotional to watch the riders come in. The first to arrive was Dee (who was featured on Facing Forward on Day 3). Her accomplishment today was so inspiring for me. By the time Austin and the other riders arrived at the finish line, our boys were pretty grumpy (it was way past nap time), but it was still very exciting to welcome 300 riders and congratulate them on their amazing accomplishment. 

Then we were super happy to head to Dapa's house for a swim, dinner, and a comfortable bed. We head back to Colorado tomorrow! And we're proud to have been part of raising am lay 1.5 million dollars for the Arthritis Foundation.

Three CCC finish lines - 2012, 2013, & 2015!!