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John Crowley

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Namib Race (2010) blog posts from John Crowley

06 October 2010 01:11 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

First off thank you all so much for all the messages.  Truly inspiring to recieve all the support from home.
 
As I'm sure you know from reading my one entry so far, Day 1 was brutal heat.  I didn't sleep a wink the night before.  Nerves and snoring neighbors... We started at 7am and by afternoon it was 47 C (someone can let me know what that is in F).  I ran through checkpoint 1, except for the dunes, filled up water and powders then off to stage 2.  Heat was kicking in by then and I was dehydrated despite drinking 4 liters over the 5 hours I was out at that point.  Between check point 2 and check point 3, I found shade under an old shed and waited out some dizziness.  At check point 3 I fueled up and moved on.  Half way between 3 and the finish things went bad, but I made it.  On a positive note, the scenery was spectacular.  We ran around two lakes, with nothing but desert around them.  We ran east in the morning and west in the evening; the sun did not help the situation.  I got in, got some Zofrin so I could choke some food down, then prayed I would be able to start in the morning with a clear head. It worked!  I also decided to walk this course as running it is a joke for me.  Way too much lose sand.  And not sand like our beaches in Florida - think talcum powder.
 
Day 2 was more spectacular scenery.  First we traveled down past the south western edge of the bottom lake.  Then it was off to some dunes.  Traversing the dunes, up and down 100 to 200 feet of loose sand, for mile after mile.  Someone was watching out for me, as the highlight of the day was having several clouds float above me and block the sun for a few minutes at a time over the course of an hour.  It saved my tail.  The highlight of the trek so far in terms of the course and scenery came at the end of stage 2.  To get to the last checkpoint we climbed a couple hundred feet of dunes to a plateau.  After traversing this plateau for several long, flat, hot miles I got to this last checkpoint.  From the top of this plateau you could see camp.  It was on another plateau of about the same elevation, but 3 miles as the crow flies.  To get there we had to "ski" down a 300 ft sand dune.  It was like being 5 years old.  After I arrived at the bottom I lost sight of camp - for 2 hours!  It was up and down sand dune after sand dune before arriving at the destination that was teased in front of us as being just a stones throw away.  Teasing us with camp has become a recurring theme.
 
Day 3 was very, very tough.  I think most of the people we have lost were as result of the difficulty and heat on day 3. I didn't think at all past the next checkpoint.  I just wanted to live to fight the next day.  I took a bunch of time at each checkpoint and knocked back some water until I felt completely well.  This leg looked like what you think of when you hear "Sahara".  Huge monster sand dunes to right and huge plateaus to the left for the first three check points.  This was the second hottest day - I heard 45 C, but not sure.  At check point 3, they had a nice surprise for us: a small pool filled withn a fresh water spring.  Most folks took a dunk before moving on.  This day was broken into 5 parts versus the 4 of the prior days.  The last two stages were both very long.  I got back in after dark, but feeling well.  Ate a meal, got some sleep and then went back at it again today.
 
Day 4 was a good day.  I actually jogged some.  The scenery was bland and didn't vary much, but I knocked it out.  I only stayed at the checkpoints for 15 minutes or so (getting the hang of it) loaded up with some food and water, and moved on.  Just wanted a good couple of hours back at camp to relax before tomorrow (the long day), have a relaxing freeze dried meal and wake up refreshed for tomorrow.  I feel good, but alot can happen between now and then.  My left ankle and right knee are a wreck from the dunes on the 2nd and 3rd day, but these docs have some great cream.  LCR - but it doesn't have a pain killer.  Just hoping to finish.
 
Lastly, and most importantly - Happy Birthday Alton!!!  I know you may get this a bit early, but since tomorrow is the long day, I didn't want to be late.  You are a wonderful young man and a great son.  I cannot wait to get home and see you, Harrison and K. 

Comments: Total (45) comments

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 07:18 pm

And yeah... I just heard (nice timing, right?). But hey - you still ran an epic race in my opinion!

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 07:07 pm

Awesome. Sounds like you've gotten the hang of things - nice work!

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 03:12 pm

Hi John, This is incredible. I remember you telling us about the run but reading your blog on the race blows my mind away. Wow. All the best and wishing you well for the rest of the run. George

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 12:00 pm

Hi John: glad all is going well, keep up the great work, we are all cheering for you ....

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 01:53 am

John, Wow, what a wonderful accomplishment. Hope all continues to go well for you in your journey. All the best , Doug

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 01:40 am

Asked Tom g he said 47 c is over a hundred you r doing great. We are so glad to read ur blog c & t

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 09:28 pm

I'm glad that all the posts are inspiring you but I think we are the ones truly inspired. As the younger brother i'm supposed to be the stronger, more physically fit Crowley, but this is amazing...you are amazing! Finish out strong!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 08:58 pm

Hang in there John!! You're doing great and I am in awe. The end is in sight. We're cheering you on from here.

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 08:46 pm

John, Glad you have resurfaced. Thought for a moment I was going to need to figure out my own blackberry!! Been in touch with k and have given her info I have been given. You have definitely given all of us a look at what you're made of. Tough determined guy that knows how to commit. Glad you have taken on this challenge and look forward to seeing you at the finish. Glad K didn't ask me to give you a hug for her!!!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 03:58 pm

Hi John You are such a trooper and a marvelous guy. God will be with you on your journey and he will keep you safe. Keep up the good work and We know you will finish. Our prayers are with Jack & Sue Scannell

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 02:45 pm

Hang in there - the finish line is in sight - We're all rooting for you! Good luck for the last long day.

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 02:07 pm

I ditto what everyone else has been commenting...your drive and determination is awe inspiring and I commend you for what you've accomplished in just a week's time---there are few that can do this! Keep it up and can't wait to hear about everything 'in person' when you return safely home---

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 02:00 pm

Hi John: Wow we are cheering for you, .keep us posted What an inspiration to all of us.

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 01:50 pm

WOW - what a journey you are on...both mentally and physically! I'm sure you know now - once you've made it out of the desert - NOTHING can stop you! Much luck on the rest of your journey!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 01:35 pm

Hey John - Thanks for the post. It's great to hear about your progress, challanges and triumphs. Reading through the blog, you obviously have no shortage of people that are awed, inspired and amazed by you and what you're doing. Keep on rockin'!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 01:12 pm

John, You are doing fantastic! It is great to read your post. Can not wait to see the photos. Hang in there! The Webb's.

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:50 pm

It was to good to read your words. You are doing GREAT!! Everyone at the office is so proud of you. By the time you read today's msgs, the hardest part will be over. Stay strong - you can do it!!!!!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:49 pm

John, Keep it up, I really enjoy reading your blog on your progress. I can only imagine the scene at 117 deg. Look forward to seeing the pictures!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:06 pm

Where there's a will there's a way! John, you have what it takes to finish this race! You are such an inspiration to us all. Keep going.....you can do it!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 10:24 am

John - I didn't see anyone do the conversion for you. Don't know if it will make you feel better or worse....47c is 117F. HELLO! You are amazing. It's so great to see the post. I, like many were worried, but you're coming through in flying colors. I can't believe your recall as you type your blogs. It's amazing what you're remembering from past days. You're almost there John - Godspeed. LOVE THE PICS. I think you can now officially be called a stud!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 04:54 am

Hey John, I'm so impressed! You are such an inspiration for all. You have inspired me to climb and reach my goals. With God anything is possible. Psalm 23 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 04:06 am

John! You go! The blogs have been awesome to read. I am truly blown away by the sheer determination and dedication both you and Linda have - it's so inspiring. Truly awesome! Congrats and may your trip home be safe, quick, hydrating and well-airconditioned! We're cheering for you out here in the Bay Area!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 03:12 am

John.....you are quite an inspiration. We have really enjoyed watching your journey from afar. I'm sure our glimpse does not do it justice. Best of luck as you finish this journey and can't wait to see you guys so we can hear all about it. love, Don, Brenda, Rachel & Hallie

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 02:39 am

So glad to hear from you! You are doing amazing. The pictures, blogs and videos are addicting. You are starring in your own reality series. Keep up the fight! You are just about at the finish line! Godspeed.

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 02:03 am

Glad to hear from you! What a great accomplishment you have made. Keep up the good work. We are thinking of you often. K has done a wonderful job keeping us up to date on your progress. Good luck and keep pushing forward. God Bless you

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 01:55 am

John, So glad to hear you are well...you are in our prayers! Hope to celebrate with Alton tomorrow. Keep up the awesome work and hang strong!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 01:12 am

Hey dad its H. How Are you Tomorrow is a big day. I know you'll make! :-) -Harrison

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 01:08 am

We are really proud of you. Thankfully the scenery seems to offer some distraction. Allen said if you see a swimming pool with palm trees don't jump in. 47C is almost 117F. Craig said he will handle the cloud cover, I will cover your mind, body, and heart. I will not leave anything out about praying for your safety.

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:46 am

Wow! Just looked at your finish times and you have totally moved up in rank! Way to go. Today really was a good day. You are in the zone :-)

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:45 am

Wow, John! Jeff and I are so amazed by your endeavor. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Good luck on the upcoming long day. I say we all go to Medures and celebrate when you get home! Take care and God Bless!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:41 am

Finally! I was getting pretty desperate and frantic. Thank God for Randy & Linda & Kevin! Their communications have gotten me through these last silent days. I am so incredibly proud of your amazing effort, drive and determination...but of course, I have never doubted you for a second. You continue to amaze and surprise me as always. I love you very much! Come home safe & healthy to us. Now go finish this thing! I'll make sure Alton saves some of his "Sin Triple Chocolate Cake" for you.

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:40 am

John great to hear that you are doing well. We kept looking at K's facebook posts which said you were still in it. Can Cole interview you for his Egypt report due 10/20? LOL. You made it this far we know you will finish! Good luck !!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:35 am

Okay, okay....so I confused your entry number with your rank! But you are amazing, and doing so, so well! I am consumed by this whole thing......it is so interesting to be a voyeur and read the blogs and watch the results......and K and I decided we need to at least walk or run a 5 or 10K soon! You WILL finish this race, John......and WOW, what a great accomplishment and what a great inspiration you are to your boys!!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:25 am

Hey John! We just wanted to let you know we are cheering you on here in Florida. K is doing a great job keeping us posted. Hang in there, and keep in mind our trip to burns when you get back!

Posted On: 07 Oct 2010 12:14 am

This is so incredible!! Even though K keeps us updated, it was super to hear from you personally today. Stay the course and finish strong! We love you and know that you are being well cared for!

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 11:01 pm

John, you are AMAZING and what an accomplishment this is! I am so proud to be related to you! I am praying that you will be given a triple dose of energy for tomorrows extra distance.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 10:51 pm

J., Almost 100 miles in 4 days...Ol'Gramps would be ecstatic with 100 feet. I see in some of the pics you have lost some lbs. Well, we can take care of that weight loss at a Crowley Tradition when you get back. Since you have a good bit of mental time during your daily hikes, have you seen any business opportunities? At first I was thinking camel studding, but that would probably be an issue with the local's. However, high end glassware could be a coup. Just think, we have all the raw materials we would ever need {sand and heat}!! Heck, we could make Murano glass look like Libby's!! Of course issues of employment, facilities, transportation logistics are minor details we can iron out when you get back. With that being said, your desire and determination in this Quest does not surprise yours truly. I am, as I always have been, extremely proud of your personal and professional achievements, and wish you well for the rest of this journey. Dad

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 10:38 pm

John, I was so glad to read an update from you. I feel out of the loop here in China but I have you well covered w the One who can arrange cloud coverage and "fresh winds" of energy. I can't wait to see you in person to hear detail.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 10:24 pm

Hi John - The QA Team here in Santa Ana has been following the race and is really impressed with your effort. You ran very well in stage 4. If you keep it up for stage 5 tomorrow you should be able to pass quite a few more people. Best of luck for the remainder of the race. No matter how hard it is, it won't be as hard as coming back to work. =)

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 10:21 pm

You're doing great !! Can't imagine keeping it together mentally, let alone physically, for that long - but you've done just that. One more day. Think "Harlan".

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 09:21 pm

Hi John, what a great inspiration you are to me as I follow you on this adventure. Glad you felt good enough to blog as it was great to hear from you. Good Luck Tomorrow. Doran

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 09:13 pm

YES! I was getting frustrated not hearing anything new from your blog. K has been great with updating us everyday but hearing from you is so much better! Hang in...you are almost there! We are still thinking of you (hourly, for me) and hoping for the best. Love you!

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 08:46 pm

Thanks dad, good luck

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 08:41 pm

So proud of you!! You're really doing great! Give Alton a big birthday kiss from me when you get back home.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 08:39 pm

John, woohoo and thanks for the post. We've been watching the results and seeing your pics (there are several favorites) and cheering in spirit. Good gosh man, you've got the drive for sure. Making it this far is awesome, hang in there and best of luck tomorrow. I got elected to send this for the group of us here as they don't want anyone to think we're wasting valuable work time on the internet:) Everyone's cheering for you!

03 October 2010 01:01 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

Pretty tough day.  The course itself was not terribly difficult, but the heat was killer.  I made it to 2 miles from the finish line and then got sick as a dog.  Made cutoffs and all that so I'm still in the race.  Just got fixed up in the med tent.  Looking forward to a freeze dried meal and some sleep.  All is well and back at it tomorrow.  Hopefully I will get in at a decent hour tomorrow and be able to write a little more.

Comments: Total (54) comments

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 01:39 pm

John - this makes trips to India seem like a cake walk. You are truly an inspiration for all of us here. Keep up the good fight and we will see you back home soon. Peace!!

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 06:40 am

John : by this time, 11:30 PM.CA, you might be finished the Race and the adventure of your life,mi prayers and wishes for your good health and safe return home. Cheers. (abuelo.)

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 06:37 am

John : by this time, 11:30 PM.CA, you might be finished the Race and the adventure of your life,may prayers and wishes for your good health and safe return home. Cheers. (abuelo.)

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 08:01 pm

What a great adventure! Thoughts and Prayers are with you!

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 04:01 pm

What a great adventure. The tales you will have to tell your children, your grandchildren!

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 03:43 pm

Another incredible day of your amazing adventure. Keep it up! You are inspiring all of us.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 02:17 pm

You go John- I am so proud of you- let me know when you are ready and I will have the horse come and give you a lift.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 01:39 pm

You are halfway there!! How great is that! Keep it up, what great stories you will have after this amazing adventure.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 01:18 pm

Stage 3 Completed!! Glad to see your still pushing through!!

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 01:02 pm

Don\'t over hydrate or you will get sick. It\'s a tough balancing act and the desert is not forgiving as you already know. This is an amazing life experience and make sure to take it all in even through the pain. I am proud to work for you. Take care and be safe.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 01:02 pm

Don't over hydrate or you will get sick. It's a tough balancing act and the desert is not forgiving as you already know. This is an amazing life experience and make sure to take it all in even through the pain. I am proud to work for you. Take care and be safe.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 12:55 pm

Hi John, It's amazing! I saw the pix this morning, and swear you've lost 30 lbs, but look happy. This is one adventure I'm sure you will never forget. Laughed at the camel with his head on your left shoulder. :) Keep going, and remember we're all very proud of what you are accomplishing, and look forward to your return. Stay safe. Sherry

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 12:38 pm

Keep it up John, we are proud of you-

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 12:31 pm

Keep it up John. All of us here at EC and Corporate purchasing are cheering you on. Stay hydrated! What an amazing experience.

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 12:13 pm

Too tired to write to us?? Understood :) We'll keep writing to you, our friend, and sending you good wishes . . . Stay on it - you can do it, John! We are sending you strength thru our admiration of your determination and commitment. With love, C & T

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 11:53 am

Keep going! You can do it! We're sending positive energy your way! You are in our thoughts and prayers!

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 11:50 am

John, what an incredible adventure!! My thoughts and prayers are with you--have fun and be safe!

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 02:38 am

John, Amazing! We are cheering for you. Stay hydrated! Go, John, Go! GOOD LUCK! The Daveys

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 02:35 am

True grit is pulling you across the sand. Victory is within your grasp. Your are off like a herd of camels. We are all pulling for you! Mark D and Joan D

Posted On: 06 Oct 2010 12:52 am

Maybe you could have started with an easy Triathalon first :-). TN crew is rooting for you!

Posted On: 05 Oct 2010 07:08 pm

Way to go sounds like a tough day cheering for you Tom &cgris

Posted On: 05 Oct 2010 03:29 pm

OK, John...you can do it! You're in my prayers. Each day is one BEHIND you. Hang in there! This is awesome to follow, so keep us updated. OH! As I saw earlier- HYDRATE!!

Posted On: 05 Oct 2010 01:40 pm

John, The Webb's are cheering you! March on and stay strong.

Posted On: 05 Oct 2010 10:32 am

Hang in there John. This is a huge accomplishment and a life changing adventure. We are all cheering you on.

Posted On: 05 Oct 2010 04:06 am

Go buddy go! But remember, if you see steps, stop!

Posted On: 05 Oct 2010 01:43 am

John, I am so impressed and excited for you!! K's book club is cheering you on!! We are soooo proud of you! You are placed like 26th right now I think!! I am following you and lots of your Sahara camp mates......GO John GO!!! Woo Hoo!!

Posted On: 05 Oct 2010 12:23 am

I just got tuned in thanks to Erin and will be watching for all updates. I would tell you don't do anything crazy but I'm too late. You might as well go all the way now. Know there are prayers coming from China.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 11:48 pm

Awesome you're doing well,hard difficult but keep trying.Sorry that the dessert heat got to you, please be safe, hope and prays you will do good on third stage and met your goal .Love you, (abuelo).

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 10:54 pm

No great advise to get you through this...simply wishing you the best during this adventure.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 08:32 pm

Hey John, we are all pulling for you. This is a pretty amazing effort. Remember to be safe, keep your wits about you and stay within your game plan.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 07:19 pm

Keep going, John! We are so proud of what you are doing.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 07:16 pm

Your doing better than me. I would be done after a 1 mile race in the evening at a park with a cool breeze and all the water in the world. Stay strong!!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 06:01 pm

Day 1 behind you! Congrats to that! You've done more today than most will do in a lifetime. Focus on the finish!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 05:16 pm

Hey John - hydrate, hydrate , hydrate! We are rooting for you from PHL!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 05:15 pm

I'm guessing the runs on the golf course in Montana did not exactly match these conditions. Hang in there John - This is a huge accomplishment.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 04:01 pm

The first day is always the toughest John, but I promise you that it will get easier and your body will adjust. Be patient, don't overdo it, and most importantly believe in yourself because you can finish this!!!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 03:58 pm

Just imagine a lion chasing you and Day 2 will quickly escape your mind.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 03:58 pm

What an amazing thing you are doing. You are truly an inspiration for all who have the pleasure of knowing you. We are cheering for you!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 02:25 pm

Dude..... I couldn't finish this race if I was a passenger in an air conditioned car!! Pretty darn cool!!!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 02:05 pm

John - you are the man! We are pulling for you!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 01:29 pm

Great job Stage 1. Hope Stage 2 is going well. What an adventure. We are cheering for you back home. God Bless!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 01:19 pm

Sounds lik a rough start, but we know you can do this. You have the confidence and power and fortitude to master this. Step by step - we're with you all the way. Much love

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 01:11 pm

You can do it John! We are all cheering for you.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 01:03 pm

Sounds like an adventure-filled trek so far! Dig deep, you have the power within you to make it through all things! Blessings!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 04:29 am

Hang in there! You are doing amazing. Everyday will get better. My community at St. Gerald's is all praying for you!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 02:08 am

Shake off a tough first day and know that you have so many people who are so proud of you for taking on such a huge feat. What stories you'll be able to tell! I'm zenning you all of my positive (and cool) thoughts. Hang in there, you're doing great!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 12:33 am

Hang in there! You are prepared and determined with a ton of us pulling for you. Remember that when it gets bad. Love you!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 12:26 am

Hey Babe- sorry the heat got ya today. I guess you are not in beautiful, humid Florida anymore! So now that you know what it's like...get out there and kick it up a notch! Remember how I tried to rescue you when you ran, LOL, you never needed it, not once! You are awesome and I believe in you. Take it all in and enjoy the experience. The dunes look amazing! I love you! K.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 12:19 am

Hang in there John. Sounds like the first day is the toughest to figure out. You've trained well and I know you're determined. We're all pulling for you. No need to "catch the camel" on day two!! Randy.

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 11:56 pm

Just figured out how to read your blogs and comment--sorry I didn't know sooner. We have been keeping up through your awesome wife and forwarding her emails to our kids. We are all amazed at what you are doing and of course, praying! "You will walk and not grow weary and run and not faint!" Love you!

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 11:36 pm

Sorry to hear the heat got you. You'll do better tomorrow, I'm sure. Best of luck. We're praying for you.

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 10:48 pm

You have worked so hard for this we are all cheering for you!

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 10:47 pm

Very proud of you!! Take very good care of yourself. You'll be in my thoguht and prayers. Love you!!

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 08:46 pm

Keep up the good "work"! Can't wait to see the shots of the camel riding experience!

02 October 2010 03:24 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

Thank you all so much for the generous outpouring of thoughts, prayers and donations! Parks and Vaughan

Comments: Total (7) comments

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 03:09 pm

Never met anyone so adventuresome. Sign Hogan and I up for next race. Hope you reach your goal

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 06:44 pm

John so excited for you what a goal look forward to reading the blog know we are cheering for you

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 05:29 pm

Hey Dad, Had some friend's over last night and I got bit by a praying mantis in the pool. It freaked me out! Anyway I won my soccer game 15-0 or something along those lines. I miss you and hope to read more blog posts from you. I hope you're doing well. Harrison.

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 01:15 pm

Thinking of you!!!!you can DO it!!!!The Soler-Sala Family is glad the camel did not bite!

Posted On: 03 Oct 2010 11:23 am

Hope all is going well. Keep plugging! See you when you get back and don't worry about the family. We'll take good care of them.

Posted On: 02 Oct 2010 06:24 pm

how was your first day running? i won my soccer game 4-0. good luck, and miss you, a

Posted On: 02 Oct 2010 06:05 pm

You are ready for this!! Have a great first day out. By the time you read this, you will have completed your first day. H & A played hard today for you & were undefeated! Now show us your stuff! We love you!

26 September 2010 04:30 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

Well, down to the final hours of preparation.  My kit is spread across my bedroom floor and ready to be squished into the pack.  I celebrate my anniversary tomorrow with my lovely (and incredibly understanding) bride and then jump on my first of three flights Tuesday morning.  There are many people to thank for all the help over this last year: Bob and Keith have been great coaches, my family for allowing me all the time away to train, Linda for the subtle invitation to get back into shape, Diane for the expert patch sewing and friends and extended family for all the good wishes and prayers (I'll need them).  

Stay tuned for updates from the field.

Comments: Total (33) comments

Posted On: 08 Oct 2010 10:00 pm

Hey John, We are praying for you and believing God for healing and strength. You are more than a conqueror. We love you.

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 09:36 pm

John, hope you are doing well. Thinking and keeping you in our prayers. Best of luck, look forward to taking you to Ruth Chris when you return!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 03:06 pm

John, We know you can finish this feat, you are in our prayers for a safe journey. Can't wait to see the pictures back in Jacksonville! Keep it up!

Posted On: 04 Oct 2010 01:27 am

Hello John, Everyone but TJ&MF had dinner together tonight. Jill told me of your adventure for the day. 1stage down 5 to go. You can do this we believe in you. My church and close friends are all praying. God Bless, Mom

Posted On: 02 Oct 2010 03:57 am

Good luck to you - do your best and cheerish the opportunity and memorys for ever.

Posted On: 01 Oct 2010 08:32 pm

Can't believe the race is almost underway - seems like so long ago you first told us about this incredible journey. We will think of you every step of the way. Godspeed and much love. Dad & Debbie

Posted On: 01 Oct 2010 01:08 pm

Best of luck, you are in our prayers.

Posted On: 01 Oct 2010 06:50 am

Way to go John, your determination and dedication will be the best experience and success achieving you goal .Good luck , will be thinking of you all the time. Frank

Posted On: 01 Oct 2010 02:37 am

Praying for you and believing in you. When you think you can't go any further just remember, You can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens you. We love you! You got this!

Posted On: 01 Oct 2010 01:25 am

Keep up the determination and drive...you've trained hard and the finish is near--- so proud of you!

Posted On: 30 Sep 2010 07:20 pm

I wish you the best of luck. Will be thinking of you!

Posted On: 30 Sep 2010 06:37 pm

Good Luck, John. Stay cool!

Posted On: 30 Sep 2010 01:37 pm

I have stood by this past year and been amazed by your determination and dedication in preparation for this day. I am so proud of you and wish you great success on this adventure of a lifetime. Love you!

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 11:15 pm

Best of luck,Bro! I'll be thinking about you the whole way. Be safe and enjoy the journey. We all love you and wish you well from Delaware!

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 10:23 pm

Best of luck John! Look forward to hearing all the details when you get back!

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 10:23 pm

Best of luck John! Look forward to hearing all the details when you get back!

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 06:33 pm

Go for it, John!! Best of luck...my prayers are with you! :)

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 03:35 pm

Good luck, John. Stay Cool and Safe...

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 03:09 pm

What an amazing experience you are embarking upon! Knowing you are energized all the way! Enjoy the experience...and look foward to your updates!

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 02:24 pm

I did not get a chance to wish you good luck in person so best wishes for a safe and incredible journey. Can't wait to hear all about it when you return.

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 01:35 pm

Good luck John. We'll be rooting for you and Linda from not so hot Florida.

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 01:28 pm

...Many cheers from this side of the world John. Good luck , happy trails and enjoy this amazing journey!

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 12:51 pm

And he's off! I'm so excited for you! Take lots of photos - and make that race your *ahem* ...well, you get my point. Cheers!

Posted On: 29 Sep 2010 12:51 pm

somehow thought you were leaving today so didn't get a chance to say goodbye and give you my good wishes...so now you have them. I'll be thinking of you and Linda - while I'm basking in the not so arid sun of the Dalmatian Coast. Be well and safe and soak up all of this amazing race.

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 08:15 pm

John - everyone at Chicago Title Houston is rooting for you. What an incredible life experience! We look forward to reading your blog.

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 08:06 pm

John, what an amazing experience? If anyone can do it you can! I look forward to your updates and rooting you on each and everyday.

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 07:53 pm

Hat's off to you, Mr. Crowley:) This takes courage, fortitude and an open heart. Good cause. Best of luck!

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 05:56 pm

An amazing adventure. We will be pulling for you. Watch out for those mirages. :-)

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 05:54 pm

Good luck! What an amazing experience and a great cause.

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 03:41 pm

This is really cool. Take care and be safe.

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 02:34 pm

This is fantastic John! We wish you all the best and look forward to your updates!

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 02:00 pm

. . . you are off in minutes on the start of your incredible journey. All your friends at FNF will be following you and wishing you well every step of the way.

Posted On: 28 Sep 2010 01:55 pm

Wow!! Good Luck and Godspeed!!