J conquers Vision Quest

On Saturday, J competed in Vision Quest. It's an insane mountain bike event that starts at 5:30 in the morning in Silverado Canyon. You have 12 hours to finish, although there are cutoffs throughout the race to ensure that no one will get stuck out in the elements. To compete, you need to be able to ride your bike to the top of three consecutive peaks--but you go all the way to the bottom in between. It's 56+ miles and 11,000+ ft. of elevation gain.

Last year, J rode his mountain  bike and finished in 7 hours, 19 minutes.

This year, he decided to ride a single speed mountain bike.

He's been training for this event since he got back on his bike after the accident. It has been a great motivational tool--but needless to say, a lot was riding on this day.

Professional picture (purchased by J)

Incredibly, he finished this year in 6 hours, 51 minutes. He came across the finish, dirty and exhausted, but so proud. It was a perfect finish to all of his training and hopes since August 6.

 The race starts in the dark at 5:30.

 At the first aid station, refilling water bottles and food. A rider has to eat quite a bit during the event in order to keep his body functioning. High carbohydrate and calorie-rich foods that are easy to digest are key.

 Approaching the finish.

 Finish Line!

 Muddy...

 But with his signature smile, as always.

 See my shirt? It says "Go J"

 J's friend Mike also raced and finished, so it was a fabulous day. J gave us a toast.

Muddy face...

J said that it was a spiritual experience for him...being up on top of a mountain and struggling to breathe and keep pedaling, he prayed to God to finish. Then he realized that he shouldn't be asking for his goals to be met--look where he was, and all he had accomplished. It is truly a miracle.