Rider Talk.

Matt Young

q: How has this event impacted you positively thus far

a: It has taken me out of my comfort zone in calling in favors from people and having them exceed my expectation. I should not be surprised as we preach surrounding yourself with great people, but until you need someone, you don 't really know how great they can / will be.

q: What has surprised you the most.

a: The lack of direct 'action' through the JDRF. From a business standpoint we know many people want to run events through charities and utilise their infrastructure, however, I don't think ensuring the message reaches every person on their database [about what we are embarking on] is asking too much.

q: If you had one wish for the ride what would it be.

a: The impact isn't a flash in the pan. We want legacy stamped on this event for this disease. It's unfortunate a documentary will not be produced in order that everyone's efforts are timeless, however someone needs to want to take this ball and run with it so it is not a one-off. Researchers are close, funds are what is needed and legacy creates the funds and lasting attention.

q: Biggest concern(s) heading into this event

a: The effort is not justiied by the knowledge of what is happening. We need the message to reach the people who are directly and indirectly impacted by this disease. Yes we are targeting specifically Juvenile Diabetes, but progress at this level will certainly impact Type 1 and Type 11 diabetes as well. The last time we checked, that affects a HUGE audience. People need to understand the much LARGER picture.

q: The people who have surprised you the most

a: Cheryl Wilson Stewart, Kim Hexter, Curtis Christopherson, David Plant, Willie Cromack, Keith Nicoll. NONE of the aforementioned have a child or relative with this affliction yet they have all put their lives on hold, run families, businesses, and personal lives for the past 3-8 months with this cause taking top priority in their day-to-day lives. Unbelievable.