Today is June 16. It probably isn’t a significant day for many people. For those of us who knew Michael T. McCaskill, it is a day that brings both sadness and a smile to our faces.

It was in the early morning of that day in 2007 that Mike went home. He left behind a lovely wife and a beautiful baby daughter — and many friends who loved him. We still miss him today. While there is sadness at recalling his passing, as the years pass I find myself remembering more the times I was with him. We simply said farewell — not goodbye. Then before I know it, I find a smile on my face.

Michael T. McCaskill with baby Grace

I remember well that time. I was planning on my very first Ride for Mike. It was the charity ride now known as the Stars and Stripes Challenge that takes place when the USA Cycling Professional Championships come to Greenville. The plan was to raise funds for this charity that provides money for cancer fighting causes. I had a jersey made up for it and I planned to present the jersey to Mike when I was done.

The ride that was planned as a  means of encouragement to Mike as he fought his battle, became a ride in his memory. I still have the jersey and it is a means of motivation to continue my goal of riding in his memory each year.

So, that brings us to today. I’ve had my own challenges this year and for a while the fourth annual Ride for Mike looked like it might be in doubt. However, I am happy to say that last night for the first time in 24 days after breaking my neck, I climbed on the trainer and turned the pedals. Granted it was only for 30 minutes at about 150 watts… but it was a start back.

Today, I am more determined than ever to climb on that bike in September and finish the job. It will certainly be the hardest thing I have ever attempted on the bike. However, this year has been the most fun year planning and fund raising. That is all because of YOU. The support I have received has been a great motivator to make this a reality. Thank you.

On this day when we remember Mike’s passing would you consider giving in his memory? Your gift would be appreciated.

UPDATE: After posting this entry, I visited the Caringbridge.org site where messages are left for Mike and his family. At that time, I learned that Mike passed away. I’ll miss you, Mike. But I will see you again.

Check out the new Ride for Mike Web site. Chris Hartzler was really nice to redesign the site and create a really nice logo that will go on my jersey. The logo will also be going on t-shirts that will be available for purchase with all the proceeds going to the ride in honor of Mike.

Mike is not doing well. We do not know how much longer he will be with us.

This morning was the Sunshine Shop Ride. John and Tony, our two normal leaders, were not on the ride this morning so it was kind of a self guided ride. It also meant that I was one of the top riders out there.

I was a little tired at first because I had ridden 20 miles just the night before after being off the bike since Monday. However, I got my legs under me and for the sprints I tried, I did pretty well – finishing 1st or 2nd. I even had someone jokingly ask me if I had a secret coach.

The Paris sprint was the most fun. About six of us started a break away and I purposefully went to the front to bring up the cadence. Then I backed off to allow five riders in front of me. We crested a hill that would start the downhill before the last climb. I moved into the big ring and tucked in. The draft allowed me to slingshot around the outside just at the base of the climb.

I used the momentum to take me into the climb and smoothly transitioned into a lower gear. As I climbed, I looked back between my legs and there was no one on my wheel. I pushed a little more but let up a bit as I neared the end of them climb. Then on my outside a rider came rolling by. At that point, we were just five yards from the entrance to the park and I couldn’t get up speed enough to pass him back.

Foiled again!

The best thing though is that I have been able to earn the respect of the riders I’m with. They know I can hang with the best of them, but I’m not a dangerous rider. Frankly, that makes me feel pretty good.

Today I am in North Carolina with my parents. I’m here for Mothers’ Day as well as to attend the race in Darlington tonight. The place were I grew up is just a little over the SC/NC border, so it is a short drive down I-95 to the Track to Tough to Tame — or The Lady in Black. I’m pretty excited about going.

I’m also excited because I am already up to $780 in pledges for the Ride for Mike 2007! I’ll update the number on the site once I get back to highspeed access. This dial up business is for the birds!

Well, I’m going off line to enjoy the time here with my family and then I’ll be heading to Darlington for a COT race under the lights!