Dear Friends,
I wanted to fill you in on the Leadville 100 as it is now over and all that remains are amazing memories, sore legs and an awesome belt buckle!
Throughout the race I developed a mantra to keep me positive. Anytime I started to fear a big climb or worry about my bike coming apart, I would just say, "Stay with me Nickname." As many of you know, Nickname (aka Nick Raitt) was a dear friend and FD Alum who lost his life this summer to cancer at a young age. I did this race in his memory and that simple mantra seemed to work wonders. I can only imagine that he was busy watching over me and so many of his other friends that day.
I managed to finish the race in 11 hours and have to say it was the hardest 11 hours I've experienced in any kind of sporting event. I need to thank all of you for supporting me in this challenge. I couldn't have done this without you behind me.
In addition to my goal of finishing this event, I set an equally tough goal of raising 10k and thanks to so many of you (you know who you are- THANK YOU!!!) I'm well on my way. However, even though the finish line is behind me, the challenge continues. I would be honored if you could dig deep just one more time to make any contribution you feel comfortable making to support me in my final push to the end of this challenge. Click here to donate.
For every 1,000 dollars we raise, First Descents will send another young adult with cancer, just like Nickname, on a life-changing adventure. Thank you for making it all possible!
Gratefully yours!
Brad
- First Descents
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First Descents
Brad Ludden, professional kayaker and the founder of First Descents provides perspective through his own challenges and adventures on rivers around the world and through the triumphs of the young adults with cancer served through the organization, "First Descents."
About Brad Ludden: Commonly known as one of the best professional kayakers in the world, Brad Ludden has traveled to over 40 countries as a Teva sponsored athlete and can be seen gracing the cover of magazines such as Outside, Men's Health and Men's Journal. Brad was born, raised and still lives and plays in the northern Rocky Mountains. He spent his childhood hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, kayaking, biking, climbing and living outside.
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