What we are doing in preparation
In preparation for the race, there is obviously a lot going on. Charlie is riding, a lot, Justin is riding with Charlie, the rest of us are preparing mentally as well as some odds and ends. We are in the process now of trying to secure some amber flashing lights to put on the back of the truck. Speaking of truck, Charlie was able to secure us a 4 door truck to use as the crew vehicle. It should be nice to have a large truck bed to put the spare bike, food and other supplies. We also have to get some signs made for the vehicle. There are many little details like this which shouldn’t make anyone envious.
On October 3rd, 2009 Charlie “Water Dragon” Engle will be attempting a record breaking bicycle ride of 508 miles through the desert country of California, including the infamous Death Valley. On July 14th, 2009, Charlie completed the Badwater Ultramarathon in a personal best time of 25:45:11, coming in 4th overall. His performance at Badwater set him up for a run at the Death Valley Cup record; a contest of the best cummulative time between Badwater Ultramarathon and the Furnace Creek 508. The current record is set at 60:24:10, which would require Charlie to complete the Furnace Creek 508 in 34:39:59 or better.
Early in the morning of October 3rd, Charlie will embrace the challenge and embark on a potentially historic crossing of the desert country of California.
