The Adventures of Super Boo!!

2010-12-21T04:05:00.000-06:00

Sweet the video resurfaced!!

2010-01-22T15:34:00.004-06:00

Great lead in to the up-coming Everglades Challenge!! -------------------------------SUPER BOO'S EC ADVENTURE

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A story...

2009-10-24T09:54:00.004-05:00

The Adventures of Super Boo and Hannah Too
by Brian Weber

It started with a phone call, June 30th, 2007 Therese's Birthday.

" Bri, I have to tell you something, I have cancer. Stage lll breast cancer and the prognosis doesn't look good. We need to tell the girls, ....together."

After surgery, chemo and continued treatment and unwavering support from family and friends, Therese is a survivor. When this terrible disease touched our family it started a chain of events that some call magical, others heroic; I call it the Adventures of Super Boo and Hannah Too.

Marissa 11 years old looking for answers, approached me with the idea of participating in some sort a fundraiser, finding a way to raise awareness and money to find a cure for breast cancer. Our first event was tackling The 305 mile 2008 Everglades Challenge.

We accomplished our goal of bring awareness and raising money for her mom by our participation. Marissa (Watertribe tribal name Super Boo) 11 at the time and I had completed the journey 7 days 6 hours and 20 minutes. Epic in it's own right had instilled core values and determination found in very few 11 year olds. One could say she was on a mission.

Boo's mission included contacting Hannah Grow, a young aspiring athlete, an adventurer and the best of friends for her next under-taking. Their mission; to compete in the tandem women's division of the 2009 running of the MR340 while raising awareness for a cure for breast cancer.

After the father's caught wind of their reckless texting and late night covert phone calls we quickly came on board to address some of the barriers for such an under-taking. Liability and safety were of the up-most concern... Then to establish goals and objectives.

Over the course of a week we put together a safety protocol which would include a "shadow" of the girls as they make their way down the Missouri River. The Dad's would follow along in an tandem boat offering assistance in case of emergency. To be redundant in our safety protocol we included a third boat by enlisting Mark Przedwojewski from Kruger Canoes to shadow us as well.

This proved to be one of our best moves as we would learn over the months and months of training Mark would able to share his knowledge and expertise with the girls in a way that would only seem as badgering if coming from the fathers.

Our goal: Raise $10,000.00 for Susan G.Komen for the cure by successfully completing the MR340.

We knew the MR340 in a few short years had global appeal and our intent epic, but would it be enough for Scott Mansker event director allow 12 and 14 year old girls to paddle the Mighty Mo.? Would sponsors see the value in such an under-taking?

As luck would have it, Scott reviewed our safety protocol and agreed to allow the girls to participate. It was time to push forward with some serious planning.

We gathered frequently and with an abundance of emails we created numerous to-do lists. During this process we knew we needed more people directly involved with our campaign to make it successful. Rounding out the team, we enlisted Jenny Grow as Team Manager and Emily Weber Team Photographer.
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A banner move for us as Jenny took on, fund-raising, press releases, land crew logistics - webmaster - blogger - The web was our conduit to others with similar missions. Emily, Marissa's big sister would also be there for moral and bank support.

Our campaign - "Race to Heal" gained global appeal. We had groups and individuals jumping on board and helping anyway they could. It was magical. Sponsors, and donations began to pour in.

Training:
We trained the girls vigorously. From high wind open water up-hill paddles to ghosting through the stillness of the night. Group training paddles were always 5 hours long or more.

We held non paddling gatherings as well, attending Canoeacopia paddling expo, sleep-overs, campfires and just hanging out. Our objective was to get the girls comfortable in all social situations and build confidence in their support for one another.

On one night paddle... we rafted up to grab a bite to eat and have a motivational discussion with the girls who where feeling the strains and monotony of training. In the darkness the ding of the Blackberry. It was 11:00pm. We had mail. The message; We just got world that we had a $2000.00 donation to find a cure and team vehicle donated by ELM Consulting LLC. This was highly motivating for the girls as we pushed into the night for another 3 hours.

We received lots of support from other competitors. It was evident that so many had a stake in the girls success. So many touched by cancer. So much good information and support came our way.

Events:
Not your typical teenage girls, both Marissa and Hannah have done 100 mile paddles before and had followed their fathers into the wilderness on many occasion. No strangers to adventure, they both have extensive back-country experience. We knew this would benefit us during the MR340. But would it be enough? The MR340 can be very humbling. It has a way of choosing who finishes and who returns to try again.

We had one lead up event, the Hugh Heward in Michigan. A 55 miler with multiple portages. It was only a day event, but it would allow us to test out our pre and post racing planning, work out any kinks with support, assess and document what food the girls would eat. Their comfort was key.

Fingers crossed for harsh weather.

As luck would have it; cold miserable pelting rain and high winds were on the menu. To our amazement this only fueled their desire. At one point we let the girls get a head of us to let them work on team dynamics. What they did was punish us by picking up the pace, they pushed hard. It took us the better part of an hour to catch them. Mark Tom and myself just smiled and with a "holly crap" we began to realize their true potential.

Another notable training run was a 5 hour high wind and wave paddle on the Illinois River. Our goal was to get the girls awareness up around barges. We got more then we bargained for. This was the defining moment, a brutal paddle in the worst of conditions. It was clear to us that there was nothing the MR340 could dish out that we couldn't over come. The girls began to believe.

The MR340
It was all happening. The hours of training all the planning meant nothing now, we were in the moment.

There is so much positive energy around the MR340. You could see it in the competitors eyes, the excitement of it all. It's a feeling that must be experienced at least once, being a part of something bigger and greater then yourself. A brotherhood of sorts.

Our on water experience was magical. We worked our way down river. The girls in sync taking direction from Mark who was keen on keeping their paddle stroke clean and efficient. Hydration and fueling of the muscles that would take us to our destination was paramount. We had it dialed in.

We had a couple dances with buoys on the river. I must say I enjoyed the panic look on Tom's face as we skirted danger in the moonlight. The Checkpoints fell one after another as we gained momentum and realized our dream.

Our Checkpoints buffets and support by our land-crew was nothing less then spectacular. We felt like royalty as they greeted us and took care of our every need.

The Low's
Our event was not without it's lows. We had the 5 hour energy drink fiasco, where Marissa drank too many too close together. We had a unhappy camper with an upset stomach for a few hours. Hannah held it together and paddled as Marissa recovered.

Sleep deprivation caught up with us at one point. With 3 nights on the river We were on a 6 hour, 4 hour, 2 hour schedule. But the sleep monster caught us. It took the better part of an hour to get Hannah back in the canoe to push into the night. The girls worked it out. Hannah slept in the bow, Marissa paddled the next few hours on her own.

Both lows demonstrated an unbelievable feats of determination and commitment to the task at hand. A golden moment for fathers as they saw their daughters work together and rise to the occasion.

The High's
There were many. The laughs the tears of joy. The opportunity to share this experience with your daughter's, so full filling. Not to mention the reaching of our pledge goal of raising over $11,000,00 for Susan G. Komen for a cure.

During the last push from Klondike with 27 or so miles to go, we realized that if we could keep the pace up, we could finish in under 80 hours. This was never an objective of ours, but with a news reporter saying it was inconceivable, we posed the challenge to the girls. - "let go for it."

The girls fueled and rested at Klondike hammered for the next 27 miles. They were on fire, passing canoes and kayaks one after another. The cheers and support from the competitors fueled their resolve.

The finish surreal. Hundreds of on lookers cheering the girls in. Grown men brought to tears, two girls now veterans of the MR340. We had done it, 78 hours and 48 minutes.

It didn't end there, at the awards ceremony the girls were greeted with a 5 minute standing ovation and a third place women's tandem finish. A dream realized.

The girls hold 5th spot in the MR340 record books.

Women's Tandem:

1 Di McHenry & Natalie Courson (2007) 61:09
2 Cami Ronchetto and Linda LaFontaine (2009) 61:50
3 Carol Heddinghaus and Abigail Tuttle (2009) 65:02
4 TJ Adkins & Chris Jump (2008) 78:00
5 Hannah Grow and Marissa Weber (2009) 78:48
6 Edie Jackson & Christina Glauner (2007) 100:32

When you look to the future, look to the world's children and let them guide you. The have the answers in their hopes and dreams.

The End.

WE DID IT!!!

2009-08-10T09:18:00.002-05:00

78 hours 48 minutes!! Ya Hoo!!

We're off!! Gone Paddling!!

2009-07-30T08:28:00.003-05:00

Missouri River at dusk

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all - Helen Kellar

Follow along - MR 340 Team Kruger/RP Lumber

2009-07-25T07:13:00.002-05:00

To follow along using SPOT - Click Here

Event starts August 4th - August 7th, 2009

In the News!!

2009-07-23T12:50:00.003-05:00

Click here for the video from Channel 19 WHOI Peoria, Ill. - Click me!!

2009-07-20T06:45:00.001-05:00

Click here to Donate!!

2009-07-14T06:02:00.000-05:00

Blog for the upcoming MR340

2009-07-08T06:07:00.005-05:00

We have a new blog up and running for the up-coming MR340 in August. It is being managed by Jenny Grow, Hannah's mom who will be running bank for the girls. Here is the link, hope you follow along.

http://www.teamkrugerrplumber.blogspot.com/

A big thank you to Jenny who has taken on marketing, promotion, set up interviews and working with our media outlets. We desperately needed someone to take lead on this. Thanks Jenny Outstanding!!

We will be using SPOT navigation as well, so check back to get the link so you can see live coverage via google maps and SPOT.

Also we have a direct link to donate to Susan G. Komen upper right corner. We have been accepting checks up until now, but this just seems more efficient for all.

The adventure is on!! - The Capt'n

Team Kruger / RP Lumber - "Race to heal"

2009-04-30T09:25:00.003-05:00

Team Kruger RP Lumber " Race to heal" members

Front: Mark P. - Kruger canoes - Left: Tom G. Brian W.

Right: Hannah G. Marissa W.

photo: Jenny Grow -

A shot of the team as we come to the first portage. Hugh Heward 50 - 2009

One for the record books

2009-04-27T05:11:00.005-05:00

It was quite a finish as Marissa (Boo) and Hannah (Hashbrown) finish the HH50. 11:57:17 is their finish time. They kept the boat moving over 4 miles an hour which includes 1 1/2 hours of portaging 3 dams, lunch stop, and a visit with Jim Woodruff and friends on the Grand River.
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Boo and Hashbrown make a donation to the Verlen Kruger Memorial and have a brick made that will border the bronze statue at the Portland Riverside Park.

Big thank you to our sponsors - Kruger Canoes / RP LUMBER / Kialoa Paddles. The girls appreciated Mark taking the time and spending the day with him on the Grand River, Loved the fact that RP Lumber embraces their dream of a breast cancer free world, and last but not least really liked the Kialoa Paddles.

There was lots of drama on the water - thunderstorms, high winds, raging water, the girls had quite the experience. The biggest supporter besides the Dads, was Jenny Grow that ran support and met us at the portages and bridges, offered tons of encouragement.

There is quite a pictorial on the Facebook Missouri 340 Breast Cancer Awareness groups page. Feel free to join us there as the girls ramp up training and experience for the MR 340 in August!!

Hugh Heward 50

2009-04-23T07:10:00.003-05:00

We are off to paddle our first event leading up to the MR340. The challenge starts on Saturday at 7:00am. Follow along at http://www.krugercanoes.blogspot.com/ .
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We'll have a recap of our adventure when we return here on our blog. Also you can join our facebook group Missouri 340 we have like 175 members.
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Thanks for everyone's support!!
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Boo and Hannah

Team Kruger / RP Lumber - Race to Heal

2009-02-16T06:12:00.029-06:00

Hannah and Boo - Now

116 DAYS - MR340

Marissa and Hannah - then

NEWS FLASH -

4-21-09 - SPRING BREAK IS OVER GIRLS - HUGH HEWARD 50 IN 4 DAYS!!

4-09-09 - KRUGER CRUISER BEING DELIVERED TO DIMONDALE FOR HUGHY 50

3-17-09 - BOO SIGNS UP FOR THE -EVERGLADES CHALLENGE - SEE HER VIDEO HERE

3-14-09 - HANNAH ARRIVES IN LAKE MILLS! - PHOTO OP!

3-06-09 - JOIN US: FACEBOOK MR340 FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

3-04-09 - BOO IS EXCITED TO WATCH EVERGLADES CHALLENGE!

2-21-09 - NEW NRS CATOLOG ARRIVES! OH OH!

2-19-09 - MR340 REACHES GOAL OF 250 WATERCRAFT

2-17-09 - NEW KRUGER CRUISER BEING BUILT

2-10-09 - BOO AND HANNAH TO ATTEND CANOECOPIA

1-14-09 - RP LUMBER SIGNS ON AS TITLE SPONSOR

1-01-09 - FACEBOOK MR340 FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

12-2-09 - KIALOA PADDLES SIGNS ON A SPONSOR

How cool is this.

2009-01-21T10:39:00.005-06:00

Our paddles arrived from Kialoa Paddles today. Well actually yesterday, but my dad didn't check the mail and they sat on our front porch all night!

They are really nice paddles, I love them! Thank you Mr. Chun!! My dad talks about them on his blog at: http://captainodark30.blogspot.com/

Boo

Welcome R.P. Lumber

2009-01-14T06:44:00.011-06:00

Please welcome R.P Lumber to team "Race to Heal"

R.P. Lumber was founded in Staunton, Illinois in 1977. Since then, the company has grown to over 40 locations throughout Illinois and Missouri and has become a leader in the lumberyard/home center industry.

R.P. Lumber prides itself on providing superior customer service combined with competitively priced, high quality merchandise. Please visit their website and 40 some locations. Tell them Super Boo and Hannah sent ya from Race to Heal!!

A special thank you to Sean Rossman who presented our proposal to R.P. Lumber. We truly appreciate your efforts!

A campaign to train and prepare two young women for a 340 mile paddle, takes time and financial support.

To Mr. Bob Plummer, Owner of R.P. Lumber thank you for embracing Boo and Hannah's commitment around finding a cure for breast cancer. We are extremely grateful for your contribution and your commitment to our cause.

I think Boo and Hannah owe Mr. Plummer a Missouri Boat Ride!!

Cold Pack Classic 2008

2008-12-16T06:17:00.007-06:00

Photo courtesy of Dave Chun Kialoa Paddles

Jessie displays the "Race to Heal" decal and the highly recognizable pink ribbon on her OC 1 outrigger canoe. Jessie is competing in the Cold Pack Classic OC 1 canoe race right were my Dad used to live when he was in Hawaii.

I have only been to Hawaii once. I don't remember my visit cause I was only 9 months old at the time.

Race to Heal

2008-12-10T05:43:00.003-06:00

Photo Courtesy of Na Leo Hoe Wa'a

Notice the pink canoe in the swell? We are working with our sponsor Kialoa Paddles and being introduced to others who are paddling for a cure. Their cause "Race to Heal" is a team of women who paddle to bring awareness around breast cancer in Hawaii.
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Jamie Kinard and Jessie Eames. Check them out at http://naleohoewaa.honadvblogs.com/.

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Goals include using outrigger canoe paddling as a means of raising cancer awareness within the community, specifically the Native Hawaiian community. Also "Race to Heal" promoting the Breast & Cervical Cancer Control Program at the Women’s Health Center at Queen’s Medical Center.
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We are getting their "Race to Heal" decals for our cruiser. - Hey Dad, maybe a trip to Hawaii to train! :-)

Two take on the challenge.

2008-12-07T08:15:00.000-06:00

Hannah Grow -Wisconsin River 2007

It's official! Hannah and Boo will team up to compete in the Missouri 340 Canoe Kayak Race on August 4-9, 2009. 340 miles from Kansas City to St. Charles, Mo.. Their goal; raising awareness around breast cancer and the need to find a cure.

They are no strangers to adventure paddling or each other, both have participated in the Hardcore Adventure Camp becoming great friends and paddling partners over the years. It just makes sense that they would be in this next adventure together.

It was exciting news to hear back from Scott the race director. In a collaborative effort we have put together a safety plan to insure an adventurous and safe trip down the Missouri River. No special accommodations will be made,though maintaining safety is paramount. The two will compete in the women's tandem class adhering to all rules and expectations of all participants.

Thank you to Jenny Kruger and Mark Przedwojewski for arranging the use of a Kruger Cruiser for the girls to train and compete in. We appreciate this generous offer.

Another big thanks to Mark for his continuing support of assisting us in finding a cure. Mark as in the Everglades Challenge has offered to paddle alongside the girls in the MR340 acting as a safety boat and videographer of their journey. Not to be left out of the action, the dads will be in a cruiser as well following the action and cheering them on.

Let the training and preparation begin!

New Sponsor - Kialoa Paddles

2008-12-02T05:53:00.000-06:00

My dad and I are moving forward in our preparation for the Missouri 340 this summer. Less then 30 days till registration opens and 6 months before the challenge. This will be our big event promoting breast cancer awareness for 2009.

We have acquired a new sponsor for raising awareness for breast cancer research - Kialoa Paddles. It's pretty exciting when people are believing in what you are doing. My Dad said they are going to custom build a paddle for me with a narrow shaft and blade for long distance paddling. :-)

Kialoa Paddles have been supporting research for skin cancer through the Skin Cancer Foundation and also have a paddle scholarship available to any youth through their website.

So as we move forward and raise awareness for breast cancer research, we bring on another sponsor for 2009. Presently Kruger canoes is supplying us with a Kruger Cruiser and Kialoa Paddles is supplying us with a set of custom paddles. How cool is that!

Remember to click on the partners to the right of your screen and become part of the cure!! Oh Dad! A Kialoa paddle in a dogs mouth! It's a sign!!

Thanks for tuning in - Boo

Birthday weekend

2008-09-28T07:25:00.001-05:00

"All smiles"

"Sounds of the City"

"Inspiring work"

" Compassion "

"Rocking out with Uncle Nic"

"My sis"

My Birhday, I'm Twelve...

2008-09-27T06:25:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to me!!

My cousins and friends!

What's up...

2008-09-09T05:01:00.001-05:00

School has started, so my paddling time has really dropped off. I have been getting out on the weekends with my dad, but only for a couple of hours or so. No big trips planned. The picture is of me and my dad when we went over to Michigan on the ferry to paddle the Big Manistee River.

Last weekend my dad and I got in a couple of hours, but nothing major. Paddling is winding down for me, but I hope to get in at least one overnight paddle before the snow flys.

I found a website that I am going to follow along this fall and winter. It's pretty cool as they built their own kayaks and are paddling like 1400 miles around Florida. http://www.sunshineexpedition.com/

Boo's Back!!

2008-07-08T06:37:00.000-05:00

It's been a long time coming, Boo is back! Off the bench so to speak. The Doc has given the nod to hit the water. Swim paddle splash around, all the things that a kid want to do on their summer vacation.

Boo is on the fast track to tune up her paddling skills for the Manistee 150 in early August. We wait for verification from the race director for the nod to move forward. There is always a sense of hesitation when you drop the paddle and say you want to team up with an 11 year old.

We plan to go un-ranked as Boo's sister M&M wants to paddle as well. So we'll be cruising with 3 in the boat. Fast touring.

We will again bring awareness for a cure for breast cancer. We ask that you donate directly to the Susan G. Komen Milwaukee affiliation website.

Big thanks to Mark and our sponsor Kruger Canoes for lining up another Kruger Cruiser for the big event.

To Stephanie, those kind words... thank you.

Boo weathering the storm

2008-06-10T13:33:00.001-05:00

Everglades Challenge 2008 - Picture Courtesy RiverJohn

Boo smiling after weathering the storm that blew over us on the Everglades Challenge... and she is smiling again as she is on the mend and will be able to go back for her last week of school. Boo is excited to say good bye to all her school mates and enjoy the end of the year festivities.

Down and out for eight

2008-06-08T09:52:00.001-05:00

Looks like Boo is down and out for 8 weeks as she recovers from a broken ankle. (Roller-blading incident while dog walking).

Feeling pretty good to get her back on the water for the Manistee 150 in August. Iffy on June and July events.

Marissa wants to thank the WaterTribe for their support and so do I. It really made her day that so many would e-mail call and send cards!

Hang tough Boo!! - Dad

Show time

2008-05-18T13:04:00.000-05:00

Here is the link to the CNN Headline news piece on boo and the Everglades Challenge.

http://edition.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2008/05/12/ntm.adventures.of.superboo.cnn

Remember you can still donate through the Susan G. Komen website!

Or click here to donate for free!!

May 9th - 11th, 2008

2008-04-29T15:22:00.000-05:00

"News To Me" is the world as YOU see it. Your videos, pictures and stories showcased in an original, fast-paced and interactive show on Headline News. Tune in Saturday and Sunday at 7:30 p.m., 9:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. ET on Headline News.
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Looks like the The Adventures of Super Boo will be aired on Mother's Day Weekend. Mr. Kane from CNN will confirm next week Tuesday, but here is a teaser to get it on your calender.
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So Mother's Day weekend will be filled with paddling adventure, as Boo and I present at the Paddlin' Shop on Friday Night at 7:00pm. If you come for the presentation, stay for the cookies, as Nora will mix up a batch of her faves and will make them available for your snacking pleasure!
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I have not seen the final cut or really have a clue what it will look like. We'll just have to wait and see!!

Movie short of the Everglades Challenge!

2008-04-12T10:08:00.000-05:00

My dad and I put together this movie short of our adventures during the Everglades Challenge.

Finish Photo

2008-03-18T14:40:00.001-05:00

Photos Courtesy of Watercribe

Our finish video

2008-03-18T14:33:00.000-05:00

Paddle paddle ...sail

2008-03-13T04:28:00.000-05:00

We're home!!

2008-03-12T05:44:00.000-05:00

If you find yourself loosing touch with reality and you need a jump start, take a serious look at adventure / expedition paddle sailing as a way to find yourself. In particular, the Everglades Challenge.

We will recap over the next week or so. Boo still has a smile on her face and asked the question; What's next dad? See you out on the pond! - The Capt'n

Super Boo's Team has Finished the Everglades Challenge!

2008-03-09T10:46:00.001-05:00

At 1:20 Saturday afternoon, Super Boo's Team successfully completed the 2008 Everglades Challenge!!! IT was high winds and tough paddling coming into the home stretch, but with the finish line just ahead everyone was determined to keeping their paddles in the water and their sails full of wind! Here's a picture Brian took of the what the last day looked like.

After the Team got off the water, Mark was able to catch up on some needed R&R!

They are on the flight home right now, still in awe of their accomplishment. What an amazing thing for a young woman like Marissa to accomplish at this point in her life. We're all so proud of you Boo!

Closing in on the Finish

2008-03-07T20:54:00.000-06:00

Super Boo's team reached CP 3 at Flamingo yesterday. Because of high winds, they were unable to get back on the water right away. The 20-30 mph winds caused all small craft to be pulled of the water today until the winds subsided. Super Boo's team spent a few much needed hours on shore with many other EC paddlers.

Here's the view form the boat as they were coming into Flamingo (CP3).

Last night they attempted a night passage to close the 32 mile gap to the finish. Unfortunately the winds didn't subside for long - they managed to cover 2 miles in 2 hours because of a fierce south southeast headwind. As this report was called in the Team was tied to mangroves, out of the wind, attempting to ride it out. They did catch a great view of a horseshoe crab while they were waiting!

As soon as the wind shifts to the south southwest, Super Boo's Team will be on their way again to the finish!

Closing in on CP 3

2008-03-06T12:20:00.000-06:00

An update was just received from Super Boo's Team! They were making good headway on 20-hour straight push for CP 3, but began battling fierce head winds last night. After contemplating their situation, they decided to sleep for a few hours at Graveyard.

They were back on the water at 7:00am today, and are still pushing through strong winds to reach CP 3. But with only 9 miles left to their destination, they are expecting to check in around 5:00 tonight. After 5 days on the water, Super Boo's Team is still loving every minute of it!

Moving Ahead

2008-03-05T08:16:00.000-06:00

Super Boo's team called in an update at 2:53 am this morning. After riding out the weather on shore last night, they awoke at 11:00pm, re-packed gear and shoved off at 12:00am, heading for CP 2.

At 3:15 this morning, they were at Indian Key waiting for the tide to subside. At that time they were only 8 miles from CP 2. They are planning on checking in at CP 2 later this morning, and the forging ahead to continue the race!

Another update has just come in! Super Boo, Brian and Mark made it to CP 2 mid-morning today. A video of the group was taken as they were entering the CP and will hopefully be posted on the WaterTribe site soon.

With the hopes of getting to CP 3 quickly, they have laid quite a challenge in front of them. Super Boo's team is hoping to cover the 62 miles that separate them from the next CP by completing a 20-hour straight push all the way to Flamingo. With the winds in their favor and sunny skies, they can do it!

High Winds, Big Weather

2008-03-04T19:10:00.000-06:00

It sounds like the bad weather Super Boo's team has been expecting has finally arrived. It was slow going today, with strong head winds and big waves. Because of the strong weather, they have covered only 3 miles in the last 2.5 hours! Although the many dolphins they saw today brightened their spirits!

Sandy Bottom and River John forged ahead, while Brian, Boo and Mark decided to play it safe and pull off for a few hours. They are currently on Gullivan Key, and are planning on staying there to ride out the weather.

They will use this down time to re-fuel, re-pack, and rest up for the days ahead. Currently they are only 17 miles outside of CP 2, and should reach it within a few hours of getting back on the water - high winds pending!

Day Three

2008-03-03T21:27:00.000-06:00

Last night Super Boo's team got a few hours of sleep. They awoke at 1:00 this morning to check the weather, and luckily it was clear enough to paddle on! By 2:30am, Super Boo, Brian, Mark, Sandy Bottom and River John were on the water pushing on.

The early morning brought great excitement - they saw dolphins, manatees and a huge whale spouted 50 feet from their boat. That was a first for everyone!

The group has been staying closer to shore today in case the weather gets bad. They encountered lots of wind and paddled a lot today. They are currently camping at Gordon Pass, and hoping to push on quickly to catch the west wind around Flamingo. After some good rest tonight, Super Boo's team will continue to press on to CP 2.

Another Successful Day on the Ocean!

2008-03-02T19:23:00.000-06:00

This afternoon the Super Boo team was heading towards York Island, catching south easterly winds and cruising at a comfortable 5-10 mph. They have been enjoying sunny skies and good wind all day long.

Here's a picture of Boo taking in the sun, and one of Mark paddling just ahead of Brian and Boo.

Bad weather is expected to roll in some time tonight. The plan is to make camp for a few hours, and assess the weather very early tomorrow morning. Super Boo's team has caught up with Sandy Bottom and River John, and all are camping the night on Picnic Key.

The entire group will wake up at 2:00am to see what type of weather has blown in. If it looks safe, they will shove of then and continue their trip to CP 2. If safety is a concern, the team will remain at camp and get a few more hours of much deserved sleep!

Through CP 1

2008-03-02T08:34:00.000-06:00

Super Boo's team made it to CP 1 at 12:45am this morning - way ahead of schedule! After some much needed rest, they pushed off to head towards CP 2 at 6:40am this morning. The weather is looking promising and they are sailing smoothly towards Chokoloskee Island.

The Race Has Began!

2008-03-01T14:56:00.001-06:00

Brian and Boo are on the ocean! Their Everglades Challenge adventure started at 7:00am this morning, under sunny skies. Temperatures are currently in the high 60's. They are paddling with Mark from Krueger canoes - sticking together and having fun! The race started in Tampa Bay and Brian, Boo and Mark decided to take the outside route to catch better wind. Boo had a bout of sea sickness this morning, but has recovered enough to enjoy a tortilla with peanut butter and honey and an apple for lunch. She's now completely recovered and is loving sailing on the ocean!

Riding 2-3 foot swells, they are working their way towards Venice Inlet to change into warmer night clothes. They have decided to stay in the Inter Coastal waterways for the night to be safe. The plan is to continue to paddle on to CP1 at Grand Tours tonight. Estimated time of arrival is 2-3:00am. Here are some pictures from their first few hours.

Spirits are high and everyone is having a great time. Updates will be posted as the come in - check back often!

"Bon Voyage" Party

2008-02-26T10:31:00.000-06:00

A “Bon Voyage” party is scheduled for Super Boo at Chili’s in Oconomowoc from 5:30pm to … on Wednesday February 27th, 2008

A special thanks to Bubba Girl and the Little Gym of Delafield and TriBabes. for sponsoring the “Last Hurrah” before we head out on Thursday morning!

Thanks and keep watching the Super Boo blog for up-dates on our adventures!!

What about the weather

2008-02-25T08:35:00.000-06:00

Our fingers are crossed that we find a crack in the weather that is coming down on us the next few days. There is a potential for a lot of snow, freezing rain, ice... and what ever else mother nature wants to throw at us.

Chief from WaterTribe always said that getting to the beach at Ft. De Soto was 1/2 the battle. SandyBottom encouraged us to have a plan b - c - d. We'll be there some how some way.

Boo can hardly control herself. Her enthusiasm is unwavering, her big sister is so supportive and her mom is worried silly. Perfect... everything is in play. It's all good.

Just want to thank our sponsors and contributors for making this first part (planning) really enjoyable. So many great people and organizations out there doing good.

Please visit their websites for more amazing yummy goodness.

The Capt'n and Boo

Good Luck Brian and Boo!

2008-02-20T10:12:00.000-06:00

This is the official EC blogger for Brian and Boo's EC experience - I'm fine-tuning my posting abilities before the big race starts!

I'm so excited for both of you - I'll be cheering you on the whole way!

Make A Difference!!

2008-02-19T04:42:00.000-06:00

Please see the "Together We Can Do It" to make a difference! It is located on the right side panel! It's the most important part of this challenge. Can you imagine being part of saving a life!

2008-02-17T04:45:00.000-06:00

Click image for more information

Boo's Training

2008-02-16T09:29:00.001-06:00

Boo hitting hard on the areodyne. A real grind!!

Getting a brick in. Hitting the treadmill easy recovery.

Getting in some intervals on the paddling simulator. Painful!

Getting in a good back workout. Hitting the weights!!

We thought we would show everyone a few of the activities Boo has been doing in preperation for the Everglades Challenge. The cold weather has kept us from getting out on the water. So indoor it is.

The key when working out with kids, is to keep it fun and mix things up. Otherwise they get bored pretty quickly and loose interest. I must say we have had a good time preparing for the challenge.

New Sponsor!!!

2008-02-15T13:58:00.001-06:00

Click logo for more information on Bubba Girl!!

Together We Can Do It!!

2008-02-12T07:04:00.000-06:00

Please see the "Together We Can Do It" to make a difference! It is located on the right side panel! It's the most important part of this challenge. Can you imagine being part of saving a life by just clicking!

Let's make the difference!!!!

Superboo

Make your list

2008-02-12T06:42:00.000-06:00

I'm making my comfort food shopping list for the Everglades Challenge. I'm at my mom's house right now and my dad asked me to get the "wish list" together. I know I wont be able to get all the yummy goodness but I am writing it down. :-)

Meals are going to be interesting. Living out of the boat for eight days amazing, 300 miles by canoe very challenging.

Our gear boxes should be arriving at the Kruger Canoe Company today. So we are "all in" as my dad would say.

So we are making our lists and checking them twice.

The End

Boo

Under the weather

2008-02-02T12:28:00.000-06:00

Pretty big day getting organized, but I am feeling under the weather and need to go lay down.

We went to Sherper's Outfitters in Oconomowoc. Picked up some more cold weather paddling clothes. I didn't think I was going to make it.

I need a nap. Big Daddy can tell the story.

The End

Boo

So much to think about

2008-01-31T04:49:00.000-06:00

I talked to my teachers and asked if they could get my homework together so I could start working on it before the Everglades Challenge. I'll be gone ten days, so I will have a lot of homework. But I wont beable to get it until three days before we leave.

If I got it on the Friday before we leave, I would beable to work on it over the weekend and then on the way down on the plane. On the way back after the challenge we have a four hour lay-over in Ohio. But I don't think I will want to be doing homework.

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My dad bought me some foul weather gear. It has bibs which is nice cause the jacket can come off it I get too warm and it wont ride up against the back rest.

We have been talking quite abit on the challenge. Kinda going over it in our heads. We are going to take it in sections. Setting goals along the way like we do on the Hardcore Adventure Camp each summer.

We have been thinking that maybe I should be in the back of the Kruger Cruiser. Up front could be a wet ride if there are lots of waves. I've paddled a Sea Wind and a Cruiser, but not in big waves or on the ocean. My dad says if he can keep me warm dry and fed, we're golden.
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My grandpa lives in Florida and he said he is going to be watching me the whole way taking pictures and stuff, which is really cool. I can hardly wait to get down to Florida. This is really going to be a lot of fun hanging out with my dad.

The End,

Boo

Getting ready

2008-01-21T04:21:00.001-06:00

My Dad and I spent most of Saturday sorting through my gear and getting organized. My paddling boots and a lot of my paddling clothes don't fit any more. So shopping!!

Laura picked out a long sleeve long pants paddling out fit for me and my Dad fitted me to my new life jacket and got all the safety gear attached. I still need to find some foul weather pants and jacket. I have a bunch of under layer clothes, fleece jacket and vest. But we are having a hard time finding a good set of rain gear my size.

We only have a couple of weeks before we box everything up and ship it to Mark at Kruger canoes.

My Dad worked with me on reading the compass. Taking a bearing. How to work the strobe on my life jacket, stuff like that. We mostly paddle the inland lakes and rivers in Wisconsin, so a lot of the stuff is really specific to being out on the ocean. I learned about using the signal mirror and when to blow the emergency whistle too.

Then we went down stairs and looked at charts. It is a very long way. My Dad showed me all the check points, where we plan to stop and the Wilderness Waterway. Places like the Shark River, Alligator Creek and Whitewater Bay. Come on!!

My mom had her surgery on Monday. We stayed home from school and went to the hospital with her. She is doing OK but is very sore. She'll be off of work for a few weeks recovering.

The End.

Boo

New Sponsor - Bring On the Gear!

2008-01-09T13:56:00.001-06:00

My Dad said that Mark has gotten us a new sail / sponsor for us to try on the Cruiser. It's called a WindPaddle.

So easy to use, even an 11 year old can use it!!

So we will give it a try! It looks cool! We are getting a red one to match our other sail and spray skirt.

Awesome!

Boo

The Boat

2008-01-08T10:32:00.001-06:00

Everybody is asking me what type of boat I am going to be in during the Everglades Challenge. We are using a Kruger Cruiser Canoe.

Here is what the inside looks like. Lots of room to stay comfortable. It's very strong and very safe.

I am in the back when my dad and I race together. But we will be on the ocean for days. So I'll be in the front so my dad can see me if I fall out or something.

Here is a picture of me, Morgan and Mark in a Cruiser on the Hardcore Adventure Camp last summer.

Oh yea. I am adding another set to my workouts this week too.

The End,

Boo

Wow...

2008-01-03T15:33:00.001-06:00

There sure is a lot going on behind the scenes. My Dad had me - email him stuff for a sponsorship proposal for BubbaGirl A BubbaGirl® is someone who seizes opportunities to grow and experience life. She is always looking for chances to learn about herself while fulfilling her dreams and potential.

My dad is friends with extreme BubbaGirl KiWiBird who has done the Everglades Challenge before. She is really helping us out by introducing us to Mary Holsenbeck, Founder of BubbaGirl. There is a story about KiWiBird on the website. I haven't read it yet, but I will!

Today was my first day back to school since the holiday break, but this weekend my Dad and I are going to start going through are gear checklists.

We never made it paddling over New Years. The weather has been really really cold, below zero. so just wasn't a good idea to go paddling.

I just want to say that there are so any people helping me help my mom. Thank you so much! I am getting really nervous and excited all at the same time. This is a cool sticker that Mr. Hansen is getting made for our Kruger Cruiser Canoe

Thank you,

Boo

Pledge Sheet

2007-12-27T13:35:00.000-06:00

I made this cool pledge sheet and have it at my Aunt's Little Gym. Here is the information to contact them if you want to make a pledge for my mom.

Call or stop by the Little Gym and they will put your name on the pledge sheet. You could e-mail my Dad at brian@peakcamp.com too and he can get the information we need. Name - how much per mile - how to contact you when the Everglades Challenge is over.

The Little Gym of Lake Country - click here for a map

2740 Heritage Drive Wal-Mart Center Delafield, WI 53018

Phone: (262) 646-8990

Website: http://www.tlglakecountrywi.com/

Thank you!! Boo

My Dad The Christmas Elf!

2007-12-26T10:53:00.000-06:00

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We watched old home videos over Christmas with my Dad. There is a very funny story behind this picture and video we have from Christmas when I was 2 years old!!

You have to believe to receive - Dad

Training

2007-12-26T10:11:00.000-06:00

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My dad said I should add some stuff to my blog while I am on break and some of my friends and family have asked my Dad and I how we will train for the Everglades Challenge. So here goes.
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I have a 4 day work out plan, but have been missing stuff cause of the holidays and school.
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There are are a lot of stomach and back exercises that my Dad showed me. Torso twists, crunches and flutter kicks. Then I do these bent over rows and swimmers things which my dad invented for shoulders and back. I also do push-ups and chair dips.
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Right now I am doing 2 sets of 15 each. I will go up a set each week until I hit 6 sets. Then my dad said I should back off for two weeks before the event, but still get workouts in.
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My dad spends hours on the paddling simulator watching old movies, but also does weights and stomach stuff. I don't have one of those at my mom's house so I just do the exercises.
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If the weather is good we may go paddling on New Years Day with the paddle club on Columbia Lake. It never freezes cause it is a lake used for cooling the power plant. The water is very warm and there is a fog that is created. We will paddle our two person canoe so we can practice together.
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The End
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Boo

My Mom and stuff

2007-12-26T05:49:00.000-06:00

My mom is doing pretty good. Today is her last kimo before her surgery on January 14th. My sister and I had plans to go to Chicago with my Aunt Jenny before the surgery was scheduled, but now we want to stay home with mom and help out. We will know alot more after her surgery.

I got lots of pledges this past month, which is way cool. My friend Morgan gave me a gift card at Gander Mountain Outfitters to get stuff for the Everglades Challenge. I bought a survival kit in a water bottle and a jacket with my gift card. Thanks Morggy!

I got some cool stuff from my Dad and Laura for Christmas. I got this really cool knife, whistle compass, strobe light, headlamp. It's cool cause it's my gear and not just my Dad's stuff. There is a lot of stuff I still have to get.

I am off of school for the holidays, so I am going to start doing some of the new workouts my dad gave me. I kinda forgot some of the exercises, so we went over them again.

The spare bedroom is getting filled with paddling gear. We have to sort through the gear we are going to take and get it boxed up so we can ship it down before the challenge. We don't want to take a chance that our luggage is lost or stuff is broke on the plane.

Merry Christmas!

The End - Boo

Is this good daddy? If not send me an e-mail

2007-12-05T16:26:00.000-06:00

Kick'n it on the Vermillion River

When the first time my mom told me that she had breast cancer I was shocked. I guess that wasn't what I expected to hear, but I new I would have to do something about it. Then she got her hair shaved off. Wow was that an experience! We went out shopping for bandannas scarfs and hats.

Then the big stuff, the chemo treatments. First it was once a month then every two weeks then every week on Friday. After her treatments, she gets very tired.

So I am really trying to help out at home. Always listen. Help out do the dishes, wash cloths, and be responsible. So just wanted to let everyone know that there is a lot going on and I am trying to be helpful.

Boo

[Boo - Perfect Boo!! Just perfect!! Love Dad]

For my mom - anything for a buck

2007-12-04T06:18:00.001-06:00

Here is a picture of me trying to raise money a couple years back to go to Belize with my Dad on one of his PEAK CAMP eco-tech camps. I never did get to go, as I dislocated my knee and was in a immobilizer for 3 months.

So this adventure with Dad to Florida to compete in the Everglades Challenge is way cool. A lot of people behind us and helping us out.

Ellen Sawyers - Our fundraising guru has done a candle sale right before the holidays and got us a couple hundred bucks for us. My pledge sheet at the little gym is doing OK, a couple people have signed on, so that's cool.

I've been doing these crazy exercises with soup cans and milk jugs that my Dad showed me. He calls them his old man exercises. Lots of back and shoulder stuff and lots of ab rotations crunches and sit-ups. My martial arts class is ending this week so I need to find other things to do to get strong. My Dad suggested bending down and picking up my room.

He's such a kidder! Luv ya Dad! :-)

Paddling with Dad

2007-11-12T06:14:00.000-06:00

My dad and I spent most of Saturday getting stuff together for my pledge sheets.

We went to the bank and set up the Adventures of Super Boo account. It took a lot of time, most of the morning. The bank manager Mrs. Shoenborn was really helpful and nice

Then we went to Ben Franklin Craft store. I picked up all the supplies for my poster. My aunt Jenny said I could put it up at her Little Gym. Lots of people will see my poster there.I hope I get lots of pledges for my mom.

We stopped to look for new paddling boots and other stuff. I wanted to buy a knife for my life jacket, but my dad said no for right now.

We finally got to go paddling. My dad gave me a thermometer to see how cold the water was. It was pretty cold, 45 degrees. We paddled along the shore in case we fell in. We went all the way around Fowler lake. My dad gave me the GPS so I could see how as I was going. That was pretty cool.

We put in at the board walk. It's nice because it is pretty shallow and there was no wind. It was the first time I went all the way around Fowler lake in my own kayak. We were going to paddle on another lake but my sister was at home alone and we would have been gone too long.

It got kinda windy on the other side of the lake. I got pushed into the seawall and kinda scratched the kayak. I had the skeg down and I couldn't turn the boat cause of the wind.

My dad was more worried about me falling in the water then anything else. My Dad said cold wet and miserable was not a good way to end the paddle. I didn't fall in but got my hands wet. I needed to put my gloves back on.

My dad made me go back and paddle under this tree for a photo. It is right by the church where my Grandma is buried. We couldn't pass up this photo OP with the leaves in the trees.

I'm too far away from shore and my dad is telling me to move closer.

We are cutting across the inlet for the Oconomowoc River. We normally paddle up river to Riverside Park. But I wanted to paddle all the way around the lake.

Don't forget to click! To make a difference right now please click here to show your support!! It's Free!!

The End - Boo

The Big Picture

2007-11-03T15:26:00.001-05:00

Big Daddy and Super Boo

My mom is feeling a little nervous having me on the ocean in a canoe. I have to admit it is something that I am thinking about too. My dad says we will go over the what ifs and how-bouts.

The Everglades Challenge is no paddle around Rock Lake. It's like 3 back to back Hardcore Adventure Camps - with no campfires and no swimming stops and no smores.

Mark from Kruger Canoes is thinking of paddle with us. He is going to shoot some video and take some pictures. He has the record for the most Everglades Challenges completed plus he has gone all the way around Florida in the WaterTribe Ultimate Challenge.

My dad says there is safety in numbers. This is really happening!

Boo

A World Without Breast Cancer

2007-11-02T03:32:00.000-05:00

I have chosen The Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Milwaukee affiliate as my partner. I really like their vision: A world without breast cancer. They promise to save lives and end breast cancer forever in Southeastern Wisconsin by empowering people, ensuring quality of care for all and energizing science to find the cures. I really want to be a part of that.
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To make a donation: - Click here
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I would like to thank Mr.and Mrs. Hansen for letting us use their sailing canoe. Their Kruger Cruiser canoe is already down in Florida, so it will save us a lot of time by being able to fly down and not drive our canoe down there.
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My dad said it is November, time to ramp it up! What ever that means?
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To make a difference right now please click here to show your support!! It's Free!!
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Thank you,
Boo

Kruger Challenge 100

2007-10-28T16:12:00.000-05:00

On the first day of our adventure we drove all the way to Michigan. It was a very long drive, over 500 miles. By the time we got there, it was dark and Jack had already gone to bed. Mark stayed up and waited for us, but you could tell that he was pretty tired too.

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My dad and I sat up around the fire for awhile, trying to figure out if we should do the challenge tomorrow. There was rain on the way and it was supposed to turn cold.

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Bill, John, Steve, Bob and Janet all came over to say hello. They are all part of the Watertribe. They all new my dad and made me feel very welcome. After they left, we made the decision not to do the Kruger Challenge 100. Mark told us that Bill had tipped over today checking out the river. That there was lots of trees down and that the water was very cold. That was OK cause we knew it was going to rain too. So we made a plan to watch the start and go down river to find a place to paddle when the sun was up.

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We set up our tent and went to bed.

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We got up real early and helped Mark and Jack get ready for the challenge. We took extra clothes, tents and other stuff they did not want to carry with them. Our Jeep was stuffed!

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Jack yelled to everyone 5 minutes! Then at 6:00 am a lot of paddlers took off, but others were still getting ready.

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Then there was a crazy lady at the campground that kept hitting her dog cause he wouldn't listen. So I told my dad we should leave. I didn't want to see her hit the dog anymore.

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So we packed up our stuff and went out for breakfast at the Breakfast Burger Express. They had really good food there. Then we drove down to the river to watch some of the racers come by. We were there for 5 hours in the pouring rain. We didn't see one racer! We played a lot of hangman word games and listened to music.

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More rain and high winds, so we went down to a town called Cadillac. I tried to get my dad to take me to a movie, but they were all rated R, so of course my dad wouldn't let me watch. We had lunch and went up to Mesick to get set up for the finish.

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When we got to the boat landing in Mesick we were almost attacked my 3 ducks. They were huge! We figured out that they thought we had bread for them. I went into the cooler and got out some bagel. They loved it and followed us around and even went out on the water when we went paddling.

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We went paddling for a couple of hours. The Manistee river is really nice. We saw a very old train bridge and a huge fish jump right out of the water in front of us.

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After paddling we went out for dinner at the Mushroom Bar and Grille. We hung out there for awhile as we had a long wait before racers would be coming in.

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We waited awhile and finally went to bed. Jack called my dad on the cell phone to say they were a mile out. It was 3:00 am in the morning so we got up to see Mark and Jack finish the 100 miler. I was amazed that they made it back alive!

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We pulled the Kruger Cruiser up to the car. Jack slipped and fell down. Then he got to his car and my dad said his tire was low, but it was really flat. Jack didn't get mad. He said he would deal with it in the morning and went to the hotel. Mark slept in his van, cause he didn't want to leave the boat and gear down by the finish.

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We decided to say our good byes and head back to Wisconsin. My dad said he was up could drive and I could sleep in the car.

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It seemed a lot faster going home, cause I slept most of the way and worked on my blog. We drove through downtown Chicago to look at the skyline. We lucked out. There was hardly any traffic cause it was Sunday.

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On the way back home, we made the decision on the Watertribe. We would definitely do the Ultra Marathon and go as far as we could on the Everglades Challenge. So I guess we are really doing the Everglades Challenge. We are going to take it one mile at a time and see how we feel.

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I already have people pledging money and I don't even have my pledge sheets ready.

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The End - Boo

Getting Ready!

2007-10-22T14:47:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking for some time on how I can help my mom and others who have breast cancer. So after talking with my Dad, we came up with an idea of raising awareness and money through my participation in water based challenges and adventures.
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The challenge which really got me thinking was the PEAK Hardcore Adventure Camp 2007, where I paddled with a group for 93 miles on the Wisconsin River. It made me feel like I could do anything.
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I've competed in the DMI Paddle and Portage and the Callie Rohr Memorial Canoe races. But what I plan to do now is beyond my wildest dreams. I plan to paddle with a purpose and help my mom and others who have breast cancer.
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My Dad is here to help me in my preparation. We have been paddling all summer together. Now it is time to pick a large event that will help us achieve our goal of bringing awareness to finding a cure.

We have decided to look at a couple of the Watertribe Challenges coming up in March 2008. We have permission from the race director "Chief" to participate and use his venue to promote breast cancer awareness.

We are looking at the Ultra Marathon ( 67 miles) or the Everglades Challenge (305 miles) See the website for all the details.

I plan on circulating a pledge sheet at school and asking for donations. I do not have a specific dollar amount in mind. I just hope people see how difficult this challenge will be and support me and breast cancer awareness along the way.

You can also click on the icon to the right and make a difference too! It's free and supported by The Breast Cancer Site network of sponsors.

This weekend my Dad and I are going over to paddle in the Kruger Challenge. 100 miles in 24 hours. The Challenge is on the Big Manistee River.

Wish us luck!!

Boo