a message to R:W Southern tour:

Hey R:W South team.  I just wanted to say we're proud of you guys.  I rode on the tour in '09 and I remember how I (specifically my butt) felt at this point in the tour.  Ouch.  That basically covers it.  Ahead of you lies Phoenix!  Its not much farther!  Phoenix will be more refreshing than you can imagine.  Take advantage of the rest and enjoy the amazing people you'll meet.  For me, and I probably speak for most of us, the single hardest day of the tour was leaving Phoenix and going to Payson.  I tell you that so you can rest well in Phoenix and so you know what you're getting into.  You will not believe the elevation gain and the heat.  Rest well in Phoenix.  Drink tons of water the day before you leave, and drink sooo much more water that day than you think you need.   

In thinking back on that day, I honestly feel that that was physically the hardest thing I've ever done.  Around noon I remember laying under a guardrail for shade!  I wanted to give up so many times, but somehow I didn't.  Only 7 of us finished the day that year.  So, yes, it is a difficult day.  BUT I will tell you this: if you finish this day and don't give up, you will remember it for the rest of your life.  It will be a fight for you, but it should be difficult, because that's where the most reward comes from.  I know it will be tough, but GO FOR IT.  Spend yourself and commit to finishing that day....I promise it will be worth it.  Finishing that day will make you believe you can do anything you dream of for the next several years of your life! 

If you need encouragement on that day, don't hesitate to call or text.  614.579.5257.

I am committing to pray for you every hour, on the hour, on that day. 

DON'T GIVE UP!!!

-Josh McNeilly