Southern California - Anyone know about the Tour De OC?

Hey Guys and Gals,

I came across the TourDeOC website tonight and it seems like a worthy cause that would be good to fund raise for, abused children, and wanted to know if anyone else has done this ride before. I realize it is in my backyard, but I wanted to see if anyone has ever had an experience with this ride. I am considering doing it and would like your opinions.

Check out the website too: www.tourdeoc.org

Yes, I rode this back in 2005. Unfortunately, it was the one ride where I had such a full blown asthma attack (the only one I've ever had), I had to quit and call for help. I could not get a breath out. I could take air in, but when I'd exhale, it sounded like a sharp whistle, my heartrate shot way up, I quit sweating entirely and felt drunk. I pulled over at around mile 70 and called their SAG number on the route slip. Fortunately for me, the woman who answered was also an asthmatic and sent her Venterol (sp?) - which is stronger and more effective than Albuterol, which I was carrying and it wasn't making a dent - with her son who got to me within a few minutes. They were going to take me to the hospital, but the Venterol worked and I was able to get my breathing back to normal.

So, my experience was that it was unbelievable SAG support (clearly!), amazing volunteers and for a good cause. I cannot remember the route, but they had a motorcade following us the whole time to make sure we were all safe.

I'd definitely recommend it! :)

I do it every year. It's a fun ride - the turnout is on the small side (less than 100 riders for the century), as the event isn't promoted very heavily. There's always a pretty cool crowd that turns out for this ride.

I think I'm going to have to register for this.