On
The Riders:
Tony Lon assembled a team of first-time centurions to participate in this year’s century ride. Team members included Tony (Christian’s Father), Jackie Lon (Christian’s older sister), Chris Taffo and Beth Walton. Jackie, a talented athlete in her own rite, rode an amazing century on behalf of her brother. Remarkably, Jackie trained for only two weeks prior to the ride, yet she was able to maintain speeds higher than most seasoned veterans. Chris, an avid soccer player/coach showed that he was a “pure natural” to the sport of long distance cycling. He completed his first century with ease, with plenty of “ride” left in him to spare. Chris’s feat was even more surprising because Chris had not ridden a bike since childhood. Beth Walton had to dust off her cycling shoes after a six year hiatus from the sport of cycling. The Sea Gull event was the first time she ever rode a distance greater than 60 miles. Finally, Tony Lon, the most experienced cyclist of the group, also had little time to prepare for this event. Yet, Tony experience proved valuable as he was able to focus and coach the team to the finish line.
The Ride
The team faced severe weather conditions at the beginning of the ride but they were inspired by the hundreds of riders who did show up despite the pouring rain. The rain, the poor visibility and the sustained 20-30 mph wind, left serious doubt whether the team would complete their mission. In some instances, powerful wind gusts nearly knocked riders off their bikes. At other times, the strong winds made riders feel as if they were pedaling in place. Through it all, Team MPS pressed on and remained focused on their cause.
The team had to persevere through some physical and mechanical challenges throughout the ride as well. Cramps and muscle fatigue were just a couple of the physical obstacles the team faced. In all, the team had a total of three flat tires along the route. In effort to save time on the road, Beth rode with a “bubbled” inner tube for 10 miles until she was able to reach the next service stop.
By late afternoon, the team experienced some of the worst storms of the day. For the last 20 miles of their journey, Team MPS removed their rain gear and proudly displayed their cycling jerseys which were dedicated to the Christian Lon Foundation. Still, mechanical problems did not abate the team. At the ninety-eighth mile, Tony noticed a problem with one his tires. Tony asked Chris several times to ride along aside him to confirm if his tire was flat. Each time, Chris told Tony that his tire was “fine” and he urged him to continue. However, the smell of burning rubber indicated to Tony that his tire was in serious condition. Yet, Tony and the team rode on, averaging speed of 20 mph—all with a flat tire. Later, Chris admitted that the tire was flat, but he encouraged Tony to “Let's go we’re almost there”.
The Finish
The ride cumulated at
Team MPS felt a strong sense of accomplishment after completing their first century ride. Since the ride, Jackie’s accomplishment has inspired many young people in her church and high school. Chris and Beth plan to continue cycling in future century events. Tony plans to organize future MPS cycling events to spread the word about MPS.
If you like to join Team MPS on a future riding event to fight against Mucopolysaccharidosis II, please contact: (Maureenlon@hotmail.com)
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