Fight Cancer, Help Kids In Africa, and Win a Custom Fat Cyclist-Edition Superfly or Madone Signed by Team RadioShack
[UPDATE: This contest now includes a Trip to see the Tour de France. Click here for info.]
A Note from Fatty: If you already know the score and just came here to get to the links to donate, here’s what you need:
- Click here to donate to the World Bicycle Relief Fund for a chance to win the signed Madone.
- Click here to donate to LiveStrong for a chance to win the Fat Cyclist Edition Superfly.
And now, on with the story.
First, a little background. Last Thursday, I wrote and posted a letter to Johan Bruyneel, the gag behind the letter being that I was applying for a job as a professional cyclist in the exact same way I’d apply for a job in the business world — by listing my business experience, talking about my ability to use PowerPoint, and so forth.
I did not expect Johan Bruyneel — the head honcho of Team RadioShack (the team Lance Armstrong, Levi Leipheimer, Chris Horner, and Andreas Kloden are all on for 2010) to reply in his own blog the following day.
You should read his post for yourself, but basically, he said that he’d be happy to have me be a pro cyclist — for a day, at the team training camp in Tucson, Arizona this Sunday. But first I’d have to prove myself, by doing the following:
- Raise $10,000 for World Bicycle Relief by Friday — less than a week from now
- Raise $10,000 for LiveStrong by Friday — less than a week from now
Wow. That’s a lot of money, in a short period of time. But then Johan (yeah, I’m referring to him by first name) takes it a step further. If I raise $25,000 for each of these causes by Friday, they’d give me a Trek Madone 6 Series bike powered by SRAM Red.
[Update: we have passed the first milestone: we've raised more than $10,000 for each of these causes. We're now focused on the big stretch goal: $25,000 for each!]
Wow. That’s a serious challenge.
And I am more than happy to accept. And with your help I think I can knock this challenge out of the park. Cuz if you help, you might win some prizes that are going to make your head spin.
Let’s talk about those prizes now.
What You Can Win
I really, really, really want to go to Tucson and ride with Team RadioShack. Really really.
But a business week is not a lot of time to raise $20,000. And it’s definitely not a lot of time to raise $50,000. So I pulled out all the stops, and am giving away two bikes as part of this fundraising contest.
First, I’m giving away a 2010 Gary Fisher Superfly — geared, hardtail version:
This bike retails for $4200, and is my absolute bike of choice when I’m riding with gears (Yes, I own the 2009 version of this bike, purchased retail at my LBS with my own money, so I’m not just saying this because I’m friendly with the Gary Fisher folks).
These bikes are hard to come by, so on its own merits this is an incredible prize. But here’s the thing that has had me walking around in a daze since Travis Ott — Brand Manager Extraordinaire — told me:
This bike will be custom painted with the Fat Cyclist colors and logo, as well as the winner’s name.
Jesse Lalonde is doing the custom paint design, and I love his work. As soon as he has a mockup of the design, I’ll post it here.
So, to recap: the first bike you could win is a personalized, one-of-a-kind Fat Cyclist edition of the Gary Fisher Superfly, an ultra-high-end carbon 29″ high-end mountain bike, worth $4,200.
That does not suck at all, and ordinarily would be plenty of prize for a fundraiser. But like I said, I’m on a tight schedule here, so I’m going to ramp things up a bit.
Win a Madone 6-Series Road Bike, Signed By Team RadioShack
To tell the truth, I felt a little bit funny about me getting a bike when I’m asking you to donate money (don’t worry, I’m donating too).
So I asked Johan’s rep if — assuming we hit that $50,000 mark — I could offer the Madone as a prize to someone who donates.
He loved that idea, and took it one step further: “If you give the bike to a donor, I’ll get the team to sign that bike.
So yes, you can win a bike like this — but with different colors, SRAM Red components, and signatures by Lance, Levi, Andreas, Chris and others on it:
That, my friends, is a collector’s item and an extraordinary prize on its own merits. And it is not easy for me to give away. But — provided we raise $25,000 for LiveStrong and another $25,000 for World Bicycle Relief — one (very very) lucky donor will get this $6.6K+ collector’s item.
One big challenge, two great causes, two incredible bikes.
How to Enter
Entering this contest is easy. And here are the rules.
- The contest began last Friday (December 4) and goes through Friday, December 11, 12:00 noon, Mountain Standard Time. That’s less than a week, so don’t wait.
- To win the Madone: For every $5.00 you donate at this World Bicycle Relief Page, you get a chance at winning the Team RadioShack-signed Madone 6-series bike. Just click here to donate, make your donation in multiples of $5.00, and you’re automatically entered.
- To win the Superfly: For every $5.00 you donate at this LiveStrong Page, you get a chance at winning the Fat Cyclist Edition Gary Fisher Superfly. Just click here to donate, make your donation in multiples of $5.00, and you’re automatically entered.
- If you donated at either of these pages before I announced these prizes, then yes, you are still entered to win these prizes.
- If you win the Superfly, you’ll get it in February or March, 2010.
- If you win the Madone, you’ll get it as soon as the team can sign it, and you’ll need to understand that their schedules can be busy. In other words, you’ll get it in a reasonable period of time, but you’ll need to be patient.
- Customs and taxes for the bike are your own problem.
- Winners will be contacted by email and phone.
Note that the Madone will only be given away as a prize IF a minimum of $25,000 is raised on both the LiveStrong and World Bicycle Relief pages. If this does not occur, then donations for the Madone contest will be entered into the Superfly contest. So you can enter the Madone contest without worrying that you may not have any chance at all of winning anything.
Win-Win-Win-Win
I want to take a moment and give a shout-out to Johan Bruyneel for his awesomeness. He took a jokey post I wrote and replied with humor and the chance to do something really amazing. Consider the effects of his reply to my post:
- I’m going to have a chance to ride with the pros, which will be completely insane, because I am a babbling fool when I am around famous people.
- We’re going to raise money to fight cancer.
- We’re going raise money to help secondary-aged students in Zambia who face extraordinarily long commutes to and from school (typically 8-12km per way) that often restricts their ability to complete basic education.
- We’re going to give away some prizes that are just unimaginably cool.
That, folks, is class.
Now go donate (here for the LiveStrong / Superfly contest, or here for the World Bicycle Relief / Madone contest)!
PS: Bonus Prizes of Awesomeness
Nick Howe, Road and Triathlon Brand Manager at Trek, read my letter and Johan’s reply and has jumped into the fray with an some career guidance for me. And as part of his post, he has offered up some very cool bonus prizes I can give away to people who donate.
First, a jersey, signed by Lance:
And second, a never-for-sale long-sleeved edition of the Astana jersey from the team most of the RadioShack guys were on last year.
I’ll give both of these away to random donors.
PPS: As of Monday, 6:45 AM (MST), we’ve raised $30,462!
As of Monday 8:50 AM (MST), we’ve raised $45,371. Holy smokes. You people are a whole new kind of generous. Thank you.
As of Monday 1:27 PM (MST), we’ve raised $55,753!
Comment by Zyzzyx | 12.6.2009 | 12:01 pm
Fatty continues to bring all kinds of awesome to the fight against cancer. I love it. Donations for each coming momentarily.
Fight like Susan!
Comment by Andy | 12.6.2009 | 12:20 pm
Donations made to both, show Lance and the boys how it’s done. They will never match your totally awesome quads.
Comment by Doug | 12.6.2009 | 12:25 pm
I’ve given money every other time. This time, I’m out. It’s starting to be too frequent and too over the top each time. To much about the contest and not enough about the fighting.
Just us loyal readers (really, all you have) sending you to Team Shack camp would have been fun. It would have been about you. We could have easily done it without Ben, Lance, Johan, and others putting their stamp on the effort. It is no longer about how cool it would be for you to be there. It’s about giving away Trek products and a cult of personality.
YMMV.
Thanks for donating so many times. That’s incredibly generous of you. Everyone’s got their limit, and it sounds like you’ve hit yours.
As far as “too frequent,” this one’s unplanned — it fell in my lap and I had the choice of going for it or not. I decided I wanted to, because it looked like fun, and it’s for one cause I believe in and for another cause that I’m new to, but really like.
As far as too much about the contest, not about the fight: well, that’s possible. But I’d ask you to consider the possibility that while the fight part remains important to me, 5+ years of the fight has worn that part of me out, and emphasizing the fun part feels pretty good right now. And in the end, it’s still a bunch of people doing the right thing, regardless on what I’m calling attention to.
Regarding the Trek-centric nature of this contest, well of course it is. Although the Gary Fisher part is in fact a coincidence. But remember that the last bike contest was for an Ibis. And the one before that was for an Orbea. My point is that any company that wants to do something big and generous is welcome to co-op my blog, and Trek is absolutely not an exception.
I don’t really understand the “cult of personality” remark, unless you mean it to say that I’m becoming vain. In which case I would assert that I’m not BECOMING vain, but merely REMAINING vain. I’ve just become more comfortable with my vanity and have begun flaunting it publicly more often. It goes hand in hand with being a superstar cycling blogger, I think.
The important and cool thing is that you’ve helped. Several times. So again, thanks. – FC
Comment by Andrew | 12.6.2009 | 12:38 pm
Go Elden, Donation made. No hating here.
Comment by John | 12.6.2009 | 12:47 pm
Donated proudly, and (to quote a phrase) it’s not even about the bikes. If I win either I’ll eBay the bike and donate the proceeds to both charities. Seriously. Personally, I can hardly wait to read about Fatty’s experience at camp because, let’s be honest, I’ll never be there myself. And I’m not as funny, even to myself.
Pingback by Bob Kinnison, a One Man Wrecking Ball for Conventional Wisdom » Blog Archive » MAN, is this social media thing cool!! | 12.6.2009 | 1:05 pm
[...] out this fun [...]
Comment by Big Boned | 12.6.2009 | 1:28 pm
Doug,
I’ve been here since the MSN days, and I too am out. I think the train has left the tracks.
Martin
Comment by Rich Wielgosz | 12.6.2009 | 1:29 pm
I think sending Fatty to camp is awesome, and if we can raise more money for cancer and for kids in Africa, I fail to see how this can be a bad thing.
I can totally relate to Eldon needing some extra inspiration from time to time to keep the fight fresh. We all need to recharge our batteries from time to time.
Every time I read his writing, I see his tongue planted firmly in cheek. If you can’t, you should assume it is, because to assume anything else, without hearing his tone of voice and reading his body language, is unfair.
Happy holidays to everyone.
Comment by Max | 12.6.2009 | 1:30 pm
Once again, I’ve entered, in the hopes that my piddly two entries will bubble to the surface when it comes time to randomly select a winner. In saying that, I’m not sure I could bring myself to ride the Trek if I won it. I mean.. what if I crashed it, and totally ruined its awesomeness??? :)
Comment by Rich Wielgosz | 12.6.2009 | 1:46 pm
I also think that it’s incredibly rude, and in shockingly poor taste to question the motives of a man who recently lost the love of his life to cancer, particularly considering that he chose to GIVE THE TREK AWAY.
It’s also not in the spirit of the season, to say the least.
Namaste.
Rich…
Comment by Erik | 12.6.2009 | 1:57 pm
I could make the argument that Team Fatty is fast overshadowing other LIVESTRONG fundraising efforts. That Elden is a vain egotistical self-centered man. I could easily agree with some of the earlier detractors on this comment thread.
But I won’t.
Because my Dad died from cancer 3 weeks before Susan did.
Because my Dad wanted my personal LIVESTRONG efforts to take something horribly bad and make something wonderfully good from it. Because Elden and Team Fatty are doing the same thing.
Because I’ve met Elden 3 times in person: at Leadville this year before the start, shortly after he crashed, and again in Austin at the finish line of the LIVESTRONG Challenge. In all cases he was more concerned for others than himself. He asked how I was doing after my Dad died. He congratulated me on finishing the LSC, even though I wasn’t part of Team Fatty 2009. He asked me to join Team Fatty for 2010. So did Philly Jen.
If we can use the resources of a pro sports team and some semi-famous people, and get some free product donated from a major company, and help make a difference, however big or small, why wouldn’t we take advantage of that opportunity?
I’ve donated for both causes. Yea, winning some free schwag would be great. But seeing that people were already giving just because they thought it was cool, without expecting anything in return? That’s the true measure of a person’s character.
Allez
Comment by John | 12.6.2009 | 1:59 pm
Rich, I couldn’t agree more.
Comment by Biene_Munich | 12.6.2009 | 2:14 pm
Hi,
I tried to donate on both pages, it worked on the livestrong page but the bicycle relief page refused my credit card – I used exactly the same data. Did this happen to anyone else?
I guess I’ll try again tomorrow.
Comment by Paul | 12.6.2009 | 2:17 pm
I’m all for sending Fatty to camp. Donation made. I think you may soon have to change your moniker to the formerly fat cyclist though!
Pingback by Help out the Fat Cyclist, and win a Trek Madone or Gary Fisher Superfly MTB | Indoor Cycle Instructor Podcast | 12.6.2009 | 2:18 pm
[...] now he’s got a huge opportunity for himself to ride with Team RadioShack next weekend – and in the process, he’s [...]
Comment by Jodi | 12.6.2009 | 2:56 pm
I’ve met the Fat Cyclist more times than I can remember. I have to disagree with Erik that the FC is more concerned about others than himself. WHY? Because when he was 13 and I was 7 he wouldn’t let me play our Atari as often as I’d like. He was totally greedy with Space Invaders and Pong, though he was pretty generous with the game Breakout. So now he’s helping kids in Africa and fighting cancer…..what about me and my feelings?!
I’m proud of my brother beyond beief, and totally in awe of his readers. So amazing to fight these battles with levity and light, rather than darkness and negativity.
Tell Lance hi for me, and that I wish he’d call or write more often.
XO
Comment by KT | 12.6.2009 | 3:04 pm
Go Fatty!!! I think this whole thing is hilarious! Johan is totally awesome for replying to your letter. I hope you get a chance to ride with the team!
FIGHT LIKE SUSAN!
Comment by cece | 12.6.2009 | 3:05 pm
I first started reading this blog about 3 weeks before Susan passed away. Just about everyday, I was in tears. Her struggle pushed my own buttons regarding my mom and nephew and many aunts and my grandma who passed away from cancer. Many here have dedicated their time and money to the fight against cancer and to shed the light of hope for a cure into the drakness that is cancer….but the thing is…we cannot be somber all the time! It is just too much. we need to find the joy and laughter in our lives as we continue the fight and bloom and renew after a tragedy. We all know why we are here. Let us enjoy the good times and recovery…and let us laugh and be silly…while we have the chance!
I too made the donations..although they are small bec. that is all I could afford…but it is important to do….even if it is a little!
Cece
Comment by Minnesota Biker | 12.6.2009 | 3:06 pm
Is there any way to see how much has been raised as the week progresses? I don’t want to find out on Friday that we were only a few dollars short of the goal. We need Fatty to show some of these pro’s how it’s done! Thanks Mr. Bruyneel.
Comment by Bill H-D | 12.6.2009 | 3:18 pm
@Minnesota Biker
There are counters on each donation page:
WBRF
http://bit.ly/8lbpeD
LAF
http://bit.ly/8CHHgi
He’s over 6k on the WBRF and close to 7k on LAF already. And he’s been getting steady contributions all afternoon…we might well earn his trip to camp by the end of the day!
Comment by Paulscarlett | 12.6.2009 | 3:22 pm
Hey Doug and Big Boned, take a look at yourselves. When your family, friend or (heaven forbid) YOU got hit with some form of cancer and all the standard treatments don’t work, then it all comes down to research and that means funding. Mum has been battling Multiple Myeloma for 6 years now, and has been a part of about 5 trials, nothing miraculous (yet) but still she does her bit, and the researchers to theirs.
Fatty, keep it up, if wearing a clown suit to the office would raise another $1000, then I’d do it. You have made amazing contacts and built a great team to rattle the tins. KEEP IT UP.
FLS
Comment by Laura H. | 12.6.2009 | 3:30 pm
I don’t bike. I watch only a little bit of the Tour de France every year. I can only name 3 cyclists off the top of my head: Lance, Greg LeMond, and Miguel Indurain. And when you guys start speaking of “what an amazing bike this is,” or cool gizmo this and “wow” that, I’m usually clueless.
I come because you always make me laugh (which one can never have too much of) and you serve as a remind to me to always push forward. Too many people have died and have had their lives forever changed from this nasty disease.
Whatever it takes us to win, that that’s what we have to do…
I hope you all have a very blessed and happy Holiday Season.
Comment by cece | 12.6.2009 | 3:36 pm
If you have not seen “The PInk Glove Dance” yet…. Go here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEdVfyt-mLw
A Hospital in Oregon made this video to raise awareness the breast cancer.
Cece
Comment by Dobovedo | 12.6.2009 | 3:38 pm
I wasn’t going to donate this time around, as I’m having to dig a little deep in December. But considering the earlier comments I read, I decided I’d dig just a little deeper. My donations are meager, but they are there.
However, there’s a condition: if I win, forward the prize to Mr. Scrooge McDoug. He’s certainly entitled to his opinions, but… why post them and bring everybody else down?! The whole point of donations is that they are OPTIONAL.
Fatty.. your response was wonderful, especially the bit about vanity. One thing I appreciate most about this blog is your honesty. You think Lance does what he does by being humble? Yeah, right. It takes strong personalities to take on a cause and accomplish things, and I applaud your ongoing efforts.
Jodi’s response was equally awesome. Fatty… you better get her a seriously cool gaming system for Christmas. Brothers!
Have fun at that training camp…you’re gonna do it. And I’m secretly gonna hate you. Just a little bit. :-P
Comment by BobE | 12.6.2009 | 3:39 pm
I thought Johan’s response was both incredible, humorous and generous. I’ve been in for several of the previous drawings, but this time I’m out…. sort of – instead, I will enter and donate – call it a Christmas stocking stuffer – in the name of each of my four kids to remind them of their Grandma they lost to cancer last summer and their Grandpa who just started chemo in his ongoing battle against melanoma. Maybe one of them will be looking at a new bike under the tree, if not, they’ll know some deserving kid in Africa will be.
Comment by Bennet | 12.6.2009 | 3:52 pm
Donation made! Good luck!!!
Comment by Lisa | 12.6.2009 | 4:07 pm
Unbelievable that people will debate this or that when what matters is raising money and AWARENESS for not just one but TWO worthy causes!!! If you have the ability to donate, do it! If not, in these economic times we understand and appreciate your desire…but if you don’t want to, leave your comments to yourselves and stop bringing others down!
Comment by hubcityrob | 12.6.2009 | 4:12 pm
Let me throw out a different perspective, just for a second – one that has nothing to do with cycling or even cancer.
For the last 6 years, I have been employed as a fundraiser, including overseeing a $33 million dollar campaign effort. We always wrestled with when is an ask “too much?” When have we tapped donors beyond their ability and created negative reactions, similar to ones we have seen here.
Our answer, and I believe the answer here, is never. We believe in our cause and more importantly, we believe in the relationships we build with others who hold the same values and passions. We never expect people to give every time they are asked, but as friends and partners, we present the story of change and the opportunity to join in that change, if they so desire.
Then and, having met Fatty, I believe I can say with confidence, now, if people want to be a part, so be it. If they do not, so be it as well.
Readers – if you want to take part, please do. Cancer will not go away if we ignore it.
If you do not want to donate, thank you for at least taking a moment to hear the story. Stick around and hear how this one plays out.
If you do not want to donate and want to take issue with how someone else is raising funds – yes, even if it means Fatty getting to ride with Team RadioShack, please move along, there is nothing for you to see here.
Comment by Rob M. | 12.6.2009 | 4:23 pm
Fatty,
I hope you make your goal. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the training camp. You deserve a break.
It’s quite awesome of Johan to offer this opportunity to you and, quite cleverly, many will benefit. Chapeau to Johan.
I’ve done my part. Consider it my Christmas present to you. You can thank me in person at Philly and I will thank you for continuing to fight cancer.
Comment by Trixie | 12.6.2009 | 4:34 pm
You never know when the world is going to flip you upside down.
I’ve been a devoted reader here for a few years. Cancer has touched my life both personally and in my family. It is a horrible disease. Even with those experiences, I’ve never felt the need to stand up and fight. Sure I’ve donated here and there and on occasion nagged friends about getting regular cancer screenings, but I have never really fought.
Until now.
In the past week I found out my father has multiple myeloma, my uncle has prostate cancer, and most tragically, my nine-year-old niece died suddenly while ice skating. Today nothing in the world makes sense.
As I sit here reading the comments and reflecting on the past week of my life all I can do is be thankful for people like Fatty. I knew I could come here and laugh and be inspired and join the fight.
Thank you Elden. Because of you, today I start fighting too.
Comment by David C. | 12.6.2009 | 4:35 pm
I donated, and winning a bike has nothing to do with it. For those who can’t donate every time because the fundraisers are frequent, surely we all understand but why imply the request itself is in poor taste? This “contest” was started by no less than Johan Bruynell himself, not Fatty, and was Fatty to say “no” to a once in a lifetime chance to ride with some of cycling’s greats? The fact that Fatty has chosen to give back the Madone 6 to those donating clearly shows that he wants us to have a chance at a reward too, while remaining focused that every dollar donated goes to nobel causes. In memory of Susan.
Comment by gumoore | 12.6.2009 | 4:56 pm
I tripped into this blog a couple years ago through referrals from friends to friends of friends and so on. As someone who has battled breast cancer, I felt a link with you, Fatty, and I admired your ability to blog about something so painful. That you were a cycling enthusiast and a Lance fan, well, I felt like I’d found a kindred spirit.
Your letter to Johan made me howl with laughter. I LOVED every word. That Johan actually responded was freaking amazing. That he did so with such a win-win-win situation showed how incredibly classy he is. That you have taken the challenge and added to it is a testament to the giving character you have. Never once did I see this is as vanity or anything else on your part. I don’t get where those detractors are coming from.
I usually keep my donations in Canada, for tax and obvious reasons; but this is a cause with no boundaries and an opportunity that should be met. I’ve donated. I donated before you sweetened the challenge. I am still content if all I get out of this is to say that I believe in the causes and that I believe in you, Fatty.
I can’t wait to hear how it was and see pictures of your one-day pro-cycling career.
Pingback by challenge accepted | gaylie-girl | 12.6.2009 | 5:35 pm
[...] Fatty has accepted Johan’s challenge. Read the details here: http://www.fatcyclist.com. [...]
Comment by Zeke Yount | 12.6.2009 | 5:52 pm
I tried to donate on both sites but my Internet Explorer keeps shutting down. It will recover the tab but then shut down again. Would it be possible to get the direct links to the donation sites listed as a work around to this problem? I’m running Vista and IE 8 if anyone knows a solution.
- Zeke
Comment by jwbucha | 12.6.2009 | 5:54 pm
Wow. Just wow.
“how dare you keep asking me for money! I demand you stop throwing these sappy charities and selfish bike companies in my face to benefit everyone but me! And I demand you take this site down so I don’t have to read about it every day!”
Sorry, had an extra cup of sarcasm for breakfast.
Comment by Aaron Davidson | 12.6.2009 | 6:03 pm
Will be donating soon. Can we get the Madone in our size or what they send?
Your size. Great question! Updating the post to reflect. – FC
Comment by Philly Jen | 12.6.2009 | 6:06 pm
Everybody,
Please, please, no piling on. It’s cool if people feel like opting out of this or all contests. Don’t make me make you hug it out, ‘kay?
The battle is with cancer, not with each other.
Everybody who wants to directly engage in Cancer Smackdown is more than welcome to join Team Fatty Philly, in person or as part of our virtual wing. In 2010, we’re working on giving the Philly squad a chance to meet some of the information and care providers whose work is directly supported by Livestrong grants, so you can see firsthand how your efforts are making a difference.
And we will also have yummy things to eat. ‘Cuz we’re Team Fatty, remember?
Comment by Bubba | 12.6.2009 | 6:07 pm
Bon chance Fatty!
Comment by Accident Prone | 12.6.2009 | 6:24 pm
I actually appreciate the post by Doug. It’s a good thing that we have the opportunity to express honest opinions. It also opened the door for Fatty to address something that others may have felt but not voiced. And I think he did a great job. Also appreciate Rich and Erik’s thoughtful responses.
I think it’s better to bring these issues into the open as it encourages a thoughtful discussion. It’s one of the reasons I keep coming back and make time to read the comments.
With that being said, I don’t always donate with each request. I enjoy having multiple opportunities and don’t feel the pressure to always give. I give as I feel led and can afford. I’m excited to send Fatty to camp and thankful for the motivation to give when I wouldn’t have sought it out on my own.
Good luck Fatty! Be careful what you wish for….
Comment by Kathy McElhaney | 12.6.2009 | 6:26 pm
I think this whole thing is great. And if I win the Madone, it keeps my husband from buying the Ghisallo he is currently drooling over… saving lots of $$$$… fighting cancer… helping kids in Africa.
WIN-WIN-WIN!!
Oh, and I know the camp pictures and stories will be priceless and humorously Photoshopped…
Comment by Frank | 12.6.2009 | 6:27 pm
Hi Fatty,
I just got you a bit closer to your ride… Make sure you take lots of pictures!
Jen, I look forward to some yummy post-ride lunches/dinners.
Comment by Ruthie | 12.6.2009 | 6:28 pm
Dear Fatty.
i’ve made my donation to the two charities in your and your family’s honor.
i do not care for the prize, (although it is unbelievably amazing) i will gladly offer it back to you.
i just wish you’d make that training camp, as i would think this is one of the greatest dreams a fat cyclist could ever experience.
Best of luck to you and the LAF and World Bicycle Relief Fund.
Comment by chadgo | 12.6.2009 | 6:40 pm
hells yeah, let’s get it done!!!! this beats all.
Comment by Sara | 12.6.2009 | 6:48 pm
Fatty, I’ve been a long time reader of your blog, I’ve laughed and cried so many times reading about your work and family.
I sorely miss Susan even though I never met her, but you had an impact on my life and I think about you and your family so often, wishing all the best and strength to you all.
However,I have none whatsoever interest in Team Radio Shack and wish Lance had stayed retired. I don’t like the show anymore.
Comment by trippinbilly | 12.6.2009 | 6:48 pm
Past 10K for world bike relief. Doing great!
Comment by El_Animal | 12.6.2009 | 6:55 pm
Ok, I already donated for both and I see that you are pretty close to get to 10000 in both. I know it’s about cancer but very deep in my soul I am very selfish. I do it because I want one of those bikes, and also because I want a lot of info about the training camp experience, twiiter, blog phots, etc, live. OK?
Comment by Michael in TN | 12.6.2009 | 7:02 pm
Hope you make it to Tucson.
Fatty is the man – you’ve got my support!
Comment by Caren Gioannini | 12.6.2009 | 7:06 pm
Smile and the world smiles back…help someone and someone will be there when you need it…give and you’ll receive back ten-fold…
Elden you’ve touched so many lives in such a profound way, in spite of your vanity! I don’t know that you/we’ll ever understand the magnitude of the impact you’ve had in this fight. Keep doing, asking, fundraising, giving away schwag…because it does make a difference. I know…I have benefited from what you and others have done in this fight! Thanks from the bottom of my heart and soul!
Go have a great time because Sunday, December 13th in Tucson, AZ with Team RadioShack is the opportunity of a lifetime for a domestic like yourself! BUT I think a liveblog is a MUST as is a recap post with LOTS of pictures!
Keep believing!
Comment by Brandy | 12.6.2009 | 7:13 pm
Fatty, You have my support. Good luck & have fun. -Brandy
Comment by Marilyn | 12.6.2009 | 7:16 pm
Dear Doug, I wished you could have been with me this evening at the football, cheerleading banquet. The one football coachs wife was sent home from the hospitol today at 35 young years of age with 3 small children the youngest just 3 and told she might have 2 weeks left to live from cancer, My checkbook is beyond low being a single parent but I gave what I could to get fatty to camp as I meet him in Philly and he is a great guy and deserves happiness where he can find it and while he is finding happiness he is raising money for a great cause so that maybe you or any of you love ones do not have to go through what his family has along with the football coaches family is going though now. I hope you have a change of heart and work with us to beat this awful killer.
Comment by Henri | 12.6.2009 | 7:20 pm
These ends definitely justify these means! Fatty remember to write from camp. Be sure to bother Horner.
Comment by karen | 12.6.2009 | 7:22 pm
Dear Fatty,
Can’t donate this time but think that JB charity is awesome and Livestrong goes without saying. This is amazing and you should just enjoy every minute.
Continue to do what you do best, hilarious writing, great giveaways and constantly changing the rest of us around the world to step up.
Karen
Comment by RoadApplz | 12.6.2009 | 7:30 pm
Go Fatty!
How exciting and how fun. (It’s a world class challenge for a world class guy). I know you’ll make it, with a little help from your ever growing circle of friends around the world. I’m so happy for you I can hardly think straight about what to write except to babble on in run-on sentences like this one:
You are most deserving of this and I hope you just get there and enjoy yourself like the superstar of life that you are, living strong and inspiring other people with your life, your blog and your FUNdraising via your unique blend of sincerity/kindness/humor/”humble vanity” and heartfelt authenticity and generosity of spirit.
The world is a better place because of you and your buddies at TeamRadioShack will be the winners here for having the opportunity to hang with you.
Comment by Robin Caron | 12.6.2009 | 7:31 pm
My employer and I are in :-)
Fight like Susan!
Comment by debbie | 12.6.2009 | 7:43 pm
I have followed your fight like susan, have spent lots of time admiring her strength, and your love for her. I know she would be so proud of this latest idea, and I’m sure she is cheering you on from afar! What a great example you’re setting for your kids, of how to keep going and make a difference . Your enthusiasm is contagious. Have a great time in Tucson! I can’t wait to read the camp updates. Go Fatty, and thanks Johan!
Comment by Patty Guinta | 12.6.2009 | 7:48 pm
Please accept my donation as a way of saying I wish it was me going to camp. Please don’t keep us in suspense too long. WE NEED DAILY UPDATES FROM CAMP.
Keep the Fight Alive!
Comment by Caren Gioannini | 12.6.2009 | 7:56 pm
Dude! You’re going to Tucson!!!!!!
And there’s 5 days left to earn that Madonne!!!
The Power of the Internet…and the genoristy of people everywhere!!!
Comment by Philly Jen | 12.6.2009 | 7:56 pm
And you’re in! 10K+ for both.
Two words: Helmet cam.
Comment by Marilyn | 12.6.2009 | 7:58 pm
Yea!!! Fatty is on his way to camp!!! Can’t wait to see pictures and hear all about it!!!
Comment by Andy | 12.6.2009 | 8:03 pm
Have fun at camp, bring back lots of vids and pics
Comment by Merri | 12.6.2009 | 8:04 pm
Fatty-
You are going to Tuscan! Congratulations!!! Now you have the rest of the week to pack :-) and raise another $30,000 – which I know you can do!
I am so thankful that you haven’t lost your humor though this long ordeal, and I am so glad that you have chosen to share it (I love living vicariously through you)! Can’t wait to see the pictures, and hear the stories!
-Merri
Comment by Jon Mc. | 12.6.2009 | 8:04 pm
Fatty —
I’ve ridden with you at Leadville 2x. But, heard about this with Johan’s twitter. I’ve signed up for the blog, given to World Bicycle Relief and feel great about supporting you.
You’re going to Tucson, you did it in a day. Can’t wait to see what you’ll raise in 5 days to fight the Fight. Also, can’t wait to see the updates from camp.
Don’t get dropped!! ;)
Comment by Melissa | 12.6.2009 | 8:10 pm
This has been funny, heartwarming, and ridiculous, I’ve enjoyed the ride. Have fun at camp. Fight like Susan!
Comment by Doug J | 12.6.2009 | 8:29 pm
Dude, you’re going to Disney^H^H^H^H^H^H Arizona! Have fun!
Comment by Dianna | 12.6.2009 | 8:38 pm
I put my small drop in the bucket, happily.
And even better, yesterday my step-father and I joined Team Fatty Philly for a run-bike combo weekend. My mom is facing her 8th battle (yes. you read that right.) and we are looking for inspiration and something positive to focus on. We’re ready for the Smackdown.
Comment by Michelle McLaren | 12.6.2009 | 8:45 pm
I am so happy to be able to help you go to training camp Fatty! Thank you to Johan for being so awesome! Go make us proud and send lots of updates so we can share in your experience. Whooohooooo this made my day and you so know that Susan is smiling down on us :-)
Comment by asmathews | 12.6.2009 | 8:58 pm
Get packing Fatty, you’re going to camp!
Comment by Kevin H | 12.6.2009 | 9:06 pm
Fatty.
I applaud what you are doing. i lost my mother to cancer 9 years ago and came to Susan’s funeral in Alpine in late summer. No one with true compassion or empathy could question your motive for raising these funds (doesn’t sound like you will be getting any of these two new bikes—right).
Please email me back at this address and we can discuss additional ways to raise funds this week. i believe you will do it and will do all i can to help in the cause.
Comment by Brent Moore | 12.6.2009 | 9:12 pm
Glad both of you have taken some initiative to make some good happen. Added a bit to the over $11 K. Hope you get the day in Tucson!
Comment by chris | 12.6.2009 | 9:21 pm
GO FATTY!! Threw some money in the pot. It is awesome that you are giving away bikes, I would have done it without that, but if you get $5 from each of your twitter followers you are there! I would exercise the power of twitter
Comment by Jerry & Angie | 12.6.2009 | 9:33 pm
We enjoyed your speech at the dinner in Austin. Can’t wait to hear what training camp will serve you.
LiveStrong!
Comment by kyle | 12.6.2009 | 9:38 pm
Fatty,
Donations made. If I win either contest, I’ll re-raffle for my Livestrong challenge (Austin) fundraising.
As for those who question the motives/angle of this event: I’ve only spent about 15 minutes with Elden. I meet a lot of folks in a lot of different situations. Fatty is genuine. Without a doubt he is: confident, yes. driven, yes. inspiring, yes. humble, 100%.
I’ve been involved in a lot of non profit organizations. I’ve worked for the national cancer institute. The camaraderie and enthusiasm I have seen within team fatty is unparalleled. keep pedaling and fundraising, folks!
Comment by Jon Ogden | 12.6.2009 | 10:05 pm
UNBELIEVABLE!!!! Show’s the power of the internet. You, my friend, had the cajones to do something the rest of us would only dream of – writing a well done and humorous letter to Johann. And then he takes you up on it and two fantastic charities have people donating who probably would never given to them otherwise.
And you, crap, you get to go ride with Lance and the boys! Holy s***t! Freaking dream come true. I’m so jealous! :-)
Have a great time and enjoy this once in a lifetime experience. Amazing how you blew past the $10K for each in less than 10 hours. You’ll easily hit the $25K for each by Friday. The power of Twitter and the internet.
Again, enjoy the ride and have a blast. What an experience.
Comment by AngieG | 12.6.2009 | 10:28 pm
FC you continue to inspire so many people to take on cancer. I am very excited you are going to Tuscon. Thanks also to Johan and the Team Radio Shack boys for their generosity and support.
Philly Jen- very well said and great ideas for Team Philly. Watch it though Team San Jose will be a force this year. :-)
Comment by Nooch | 12.6.2009 | 10:28 pm
Fatty,
Kick some serious tail at camp! Bring back all the stories, or better yet give us live play by play via twitter… If Lance has all that time to tweet…. :o)
Comment by Nooch | 12.6.2009 | 10:32 pm
Also, and off topic:
Philly Jen –
I wanted to ask you some stuff re: Livestrong Philly.. is there a way to get in touch with you via email? Feel free to shoot me one and oneinkednooch@gmail to avoid posting yours.
Nooch
Comment by ohmypolarbear | 12.6.2009 | 10:32 pm
Put my five drops in each bucket. Even though I’m unemployed. Because beating cancer is worth at least as much to me as a sandwich. And sending Fatty to camp as thanks for his great writing is worth at least as much as the beer I would buy him if I had the chance.
What? There are awesome bikes too? I wouldn’t dare ride a signed Madone, but I bet my local shop could be convinced to display it for me!
Comment by Sue Dayton | 12.6.2009 | 10:33 pm
I love it! Donated to both funds this AM – and was amazed to check on the progress this evening! Enjoy camp – you are certainly deserving of the opportunity. I got such a chuckle reading your letter and JB’s replies. Keep on challenging us to raise the money to fight cancer. I’m a two-year survivor, and my mom is a 4-time survivor, but we lost my dad in 2005 to pancreatic cancer. I rode my first 100 mile charity ride last summer (Pelotonia – with Lance Armstrong leading us out). As far as I am concerned any way to raise money to fight cancer is fair game! I love your spirit and drive. Keep pedaling!
Comment by dawn from Houston | 12.6.2009 | 11:20 pm
I feel the need to post for the folks who disagreed here. I think part of their argument was that this website has changed from it’s origins, it is not the “fatcyclist biking blog” it once was. It has evolved over time into more than that, and part of it’s evolution has become partially a fund raising tool against cancer. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, just that some readers miss the “old fatty”, and they seemed to have wanted to express that.
Myself, I fund raise all the time, livestrong included in that fund raising. However, I miss the old fatty blog site as well. I miss his writing; I loved the letter and was happy to see it posted. I’m demanding, I want more of that, the silly fake cycling posts, the diet post.
Sure, keep up the fundraising, but if possible, can you drawn on your writing well a bit more for some of those funny biking posts, ’cause cancer sucks, but sometimes I have to get away from it and humor helps me with that. Before anyone tells me that you can not get away from it, I already know that as it is currently very much a part of my life, I just want to be able to escape to my favorite fat cyclist site.
Comment by chrisb | 12.6.2009 | 11:57 pm
You’re off to Camp! My tip would be cruise second wheel until the last few hundred feet, then sprint!
Comment by Rieseb | 12.7.2009 | 1:03 am
Dear Fatty,
Congrats, Tell Johan you want to take the team up Col de Lemon ” Mt. Lemon” It is rated as one of the top 10 climbs in North America and will certainly impress everyone. This will set you up for some good climbing. Keep up the good work and don’t let negativity get you down.
Cheers and maybe we will see on the roads here in Tucson.
Comment by Ron | 12.7.2009 | 1:58 am
Hope you make it to AZ. I will look for you next Sunday
Comment by buckythedonkey | 12.7.2009 | 1:58 am
I love the way that these guys respond in ways that are not only a huge amount of fun but also an almost casual way to raise tons of money for charity.
What I love the most is the way that Team Fatty breezes in with 20 grand before the weekend is out.
Well done mate, I think you’re going to have one hell of an adventure with the pros but please, please, please remember to charge the helmet cam!
Comment by Jeremy | 12.7.2009 | 2:03 am
@ BobE – What a great way to do it. It’s like giving your kids a lottery ticket, only better.
Fatty,
Keep rolling. If I can’t afford to give at that moment, or the budget’s tight, I will choose accordingly. I’m a big boy that way.
BTW, are we going by just Team Fatty this year?
Comment by Dough | 12.7.2009 | 2:23 am
You have my 2 dimes! Good luck at camp and I expect full reports!!
Comment by Anne Orchard | 12.7.2009 | 3:06 am
Hi Fatty,
I’m not a cyclist, but I am working to help the friends and family of those with cancer – so I’m in for your challenge. I’ve donated on the World Bicycle Relief page, but had the same problem as someone else at the Lance Armstrong site with it not accepting my credit card. Not sure if that’s because I’m outside the US?
Good luck with the rest of your challenge – hope I win so I can eBay the prize to support my organisation Families Facing Cancer!
Anne Orchard
Author Their Cancer – Your Journey
http://www.familiesfacingcancer.org
Comment by Anne Orchard | 12.7.2009 | 4:03 am
Aha, mystery solved. Credit card company thought the first donation was SO SUSPICIOUS they put a block on the account. Now lifted and donation made. If anyone else has the same problem, suggest you contact the credit card company.
Best,
Anne Orchard
Author ‘Their Cancer – Your Journey’
http://www.familiesfacingcancer.org
Comment by Claire | 12.7.2009 | 4:12 am
Donations done. Be sure to take loads of photos, Fatty!
Comment by Simon | 12.7.2009 | 4:20 am
Got a call two hours ago to say my best mate’s mum just died from cancer after a very long fight. She was apparently the longest resident of the palliative care hospital. That’s some fight. So, the donation I made is in memory of Jenny, who was a very cool lady I first met 28 years ago.
Comment by Laura | 12.7.2009 | 4:51 am
I love your blog and I hope you surpass your goals.
Comment by SIlverbackwino | 12.7.2009 | 6:42 am
Donated to both.
Am keeping (and riding) the Madone when I win it!
Comment by Mike Roadie | 12.7.2009 | 6:45 am
Pshaw……let’s face facts and look at this for what it is……TOTALLY AWESOME.
Whether you can donate or not—that’s your CHOICE! Nothing more, nothing less.
Keep up the GREAT work.
FLS
Comment by Dave04 | 12.7.2009 | 7:03 am
I’m in… a little to both… hope it helps.
Comment by Robin Caron | 12.7.2009 | 7:27 am
Another 10K overnight — wow!
Go!!!!!
Comment by Tambo731 | 12.7.2009 | 7:57 am
I wanted to donated to my own website for the austin livestrong challenge, but I couldn’t pass up the chance to win that awesome bike. Besides, I have vowed to ride 3 miles for every $1 donated on my site insted of actually riding in the challenge. So the more I donate on my site, the more I have to ride.
Comment by Lori | 12.7.2009 | 8:08 am
I wish too for the funny days before this blog was about crazy, crazy contests to raise money for cancer research.
I miss that ridiculous innocence. I also miss my sister in-law so much around this time of year. Christmas was her season. She reigned in that department. She always bought just the right books for the cousins, ones we somehow had never found and then loved, loved, loved afterward. They were masterfully wrapped. Susan’s packages never showed a raw edge. But don’t get me started.
All the money in the world can’t bring those days back to us. Maybe it can make them go on for somebody else though.
Pour on the crazy, my brother.
Comment by Spencer Lueders | 12.7.2009 | 8:33 am
A little 24 Hours of Booty love for Fatty. Go get ‘em.
@spencerlueders
Founder
24 Hours of Booty
Comment by LIVESTRONG | 12.7.2009 | 8:35 am
Fatty-
Congrats from your LIVESTRONG family! Take TONS of pictures. We are stoked for you.
-Much Love,
LIVESTRONG HQ
Comment by Darien | 12.7.2009 | 8:39 am
Welcome to Tucson. If you want a guided tour up our lovely Mt. Lemmon, while in town, let me know.
Comment by mnbiker | 12.7.2009 | 8:39 am
I am in. Great orignal letter, great response by JB and a great response by Fat Cyclist readers!
Comment by Joni | 12.7.2009 | 9:49 am
Amen Lori!
We all are living with the hand that is dealt to us. Today’s hand is different than the one we had a year ago or even a week ago and we have to change and adapt to it. I commend the efforts and commend this man that I have never met….nor ever will meet…..for being such a prime example of how to take a really crappy hand and make something good from it.
Go Fatty!! Seize the day and the opportunity to make a difference!! Somebody has to make one….thanks for using your gifts for the good of all who are fighting Cancer. This helps everyone…..Keep up the amazing work.
Thank you and have a blast :)
Comment by Slowtrain64 | 12.7.2009 | 9:54 am
I’m in for both charities, the Philly Challenge ride (my first century) and 10K run. This is for you, Diane! Fatty, thanks for everything you are doing and for taking us all along for the ride (figuratively speaking, that is). Enjoy living the dream in Tucson!
Comment by GJ Jackie | 12.7.2009 | 10:07 am
I would never have donated $5 to LiveStrong without your encouragement to do so. It seems like such an insignificant amount. But when your thousands of readers put all their $5 bills together, it quickly adds up to huge money. Well done, Fatty.
Comment by Sophia Maris | 12.7.2009 | 10:07 am
Fatty, you are irresistable.
Comment by josh | 12.7.2009 | 10:09 am
I’m having a hard time with this one fatty.
I can’t figure out if you are my new idol or if I hate you.
Or it could be that I’m a little jealous
Comment by NYCCarlos | 12.7.2009 | 10:10 am
Holy cow! I thought $20k was gonna be hard in a week… apparently we’re going to hit $50k TODAY! Fatty, you’re incredible. Keep it up dude.
Comment by costalrider | 12.7.2009 | 10:13 am
Well if some people are tapped-out I totally get it. I guess it is time for someone else to step up and do the right thing, so here is my first donation. Make us proud on Sunday Fatty and keep up the good work.
Comment by Ian Folly | 12.7.2009 | 10:29 am
From Canada with Love
Comment by sllym | 12.7.2009 | 10:33 am
If anyone deserves a trip like this, it’s you. Have a great time and we can’t wait to see the pictures!
Comment by Dave Evil | 12.7.2009 | 10:34 am
Why such excitement about rubbing shoulders with frauds? You want inspiration for cancer fighting? Look at a local children’s ward, or Jimmy V, not Pharmstrong. We refuse to do anything but shake our heads at this kind of continued idiocy and false-idol worship.
Comment by Rusty | 12.7.2009 | 10:34 am
Fantastic response to all this. Go. Ride. Talk smack. Drool over all the amazing new bikes. Soak it all in and then tell us all about it.
Comment by dug | 12.7.2009 | 10:44 am
if you get to elden’s age and nobody says “i hate that guy, he’s a douche” then really, what kind of impression have you made?
Comment by bikemike | 12.7.2009 | 10:48 am
Firm but fair. Elden you are the Seth Bullock of the blogging community.
Comment by James | 12.7.2009 | 10:52 am
Wow. Only $2K away from the $50K!
Are you going to ask Johan to up the ante since you basically met the goal in a weekend?
Comment by Anonymous | 12.7.2009 | 10:57 am
Change is inevitable.
I, for one, am amazed that Fatty has maintained not only this blog, but (more often than I would have expected) a sense of humor even during the toughest times. I would guess that those who are wishing for the old days would have a different opinion of the direction of the blog, and a different opinion of Fatty should they ever go through the same experience. I hope they never have to, but if they did – I’d love to see them handle it with the amazing equanimity that Fatty has consistently maintained.
This is a worthy cause and a selfless act – evidenced by Fatty giving up the bikes.
Thank you, Fatty for all you do… you’ve truly impacted many lives.
GO FATTY!
FIGHT LIKE SUSAN!
Comment by Allez Nate | 12.7.2009 | 11:05 am
Thanks to you, Fatty, for giving us the reminders and motivation to do our part. Thanks for putting the opportunities right at our fingertips!
Here’s to $50k on both – ‘Tis the Season!
Comment by Suzanne | 12.7.2009 | 11:10 am
You entertain and inspire .. thank you!!
Enjoy the trip .. you’ve earned it!
Happy Holidays :)
Comment by Accident Prone | 12.7.2009 | 11:16 am
Leave it to dug to give a little perspective…
Comment by Heidi | 12.7.2009 | 11:21 am
Elden, you are all kinds of awesome.
On a different note, I understand that the charities don’t want to lose a dime if they can help it, but boy oh boy, you’d get lots more money from me if they accepted PayPal. (Shaking fist at my credit card company for jacking up my interest rates.)
Comment by Heidi | 12.7.2009 | 11:26 am
And then I read Lori’s message. Wah. Going for that credit card right now…
Comment by Erin | 12.7.2009 | 11:26 am
Fatty, don’t forget to have your Mom write your name on the back of your underwear.
Comment by Spiff | 12.7.2009 | 11:31 am
Just checked – you’re only a hair’s breadth from $50k! Congrats, Fatty!
Comment by KK | 12.7.2009 | 11:32 am
I think my donation might have sent the Superfly contest over the mark. There should be some sprint points for that…
Comment by mike | 12.7.2009 | 11:33 am
what happens if i win both bikes? do i get to choose which one i want? this will be a very difficult decision.
Comment by Lana | 12.7.2009 | 11:35 am
Less than $800 to go for LS, and already there for World Bikes. I think you need to figure out a way to up the challenge. AND I think it is pretty amazing that you are such an inspiring person that you can convince us to donate 50K in less than 4 days (oh and those sweet bikes helped too – I admit it I’m not 100% altruistic)
Comment by Susan | 12.7.2009 | 11:41 am
I’m live in Plano, TX( Lance central many years ago).
Both my parents are gone now due to cancer.
I am also a Susan-with everything that entails-so how can I NOT get involved?
I am so new to cycling that even if I won the bike,
I would still just prop it up out on the porch in between rides( …and the crowd GASPS!)
I am positive that this is a fight you never wanted to take on in the first place, but now there is no choice.
Go ride like you stole it in AZ.
Comment by OldManUtah | 12.7.2009 | 11:43 am
Silent, crushing, tenacious, unrelenting, and life changing. These are words that describing cancer and how it works. I choose to fight cancer in the same way EXCEPT for being SILENT. Keep up the good fight Elden. Do what you need to do. I will join in the fight as much as I am able.
I lost my mom to cancer two years ago. She had been suffering from multiple myloma for years and wasn’t diagnosed with it until it had reached the final stages. It was a shock to my family and a huge loss to all of us.
Thank you for helping me to get mad at cancer. When you do these fundraisers I always forward them to my friends. What does this cost me nothing. Do I ask people to tell me what they give no, but I figure if we all give a little that it adds up to a lot. Take a look two and a half days $50,000 raised. Cancer take notice, we are the LOUD, TENACIOUS, CRUSHING, UNRELENTING, CARING AND LIFE CHANGING Team Fatty.
Elden, never apologize for who you are. You have inspired so many people. God bless you and all of Team Fatty.
FLS,
Kevin
Comment by Bicycle Bill | 12.7.2009 | 12:24 pm
$50K? No problem!!
But why stop there? Keep pouring it on. Maybe Johan will let Fatty have a day in the team car during the TdF.
He’ll have earned it more than, say, Robin Williams….
[b][i]-”BB”-[/i][/b]
Comment by Philly Jen | 12.7.2009 | 12:24 pm
Woooooooo-hoooooooooo!
$25K + $25K, FTW and FTM (for the Madone)!
Congratulations, Big Guy.
Raising Arizona, indeed.
Comment by Adam Levin | 12.7.2009 | 12:24 pm
Congrats on meeting the goal! It was amazing to see those donation numbers increase every time I looked!
Comment by Colin McP | 12.7.2009 | 12:27 pm
Just saw you getting past both $25ks…. well done!
Comment by AngieG | 12.7.2009 | 12:29 pm
YEAH!!!!!! Your over the $50K mark!!!!
Way to go FOF’s!!!!
Comment by Yorkshire | 12.7.2009 | 12:29 pm
Congrats Fatty, made both targets. Your powers of persuasion are truely amazing.
Comment by Andrea | 12.7.2009 | 12:29 pm
Hey Fatty! You did it! Over $25k on each site. Well done!
Comment by Janneke | 12.7.2009 | 12:29 pm
24 hrs and you’ve done it (or we, for that matter) Isn’t that amazing!!
FLS and have a lot of fun, and remember, shiny side up!! (both for you and your bike ;-)).
Oh, and if you draw me out of the pot, draw an other one, shipping and handling costs way too much to Holland
Janneke
Comment by Patty Guinta | 12.7.2009 | 12:30 pm
Woke up this AM and before I even got out of bed had to check to see how we were doing. We are almost there! Go Team Fatty GO!
Comment by hubcityrob | 12.7.2009 | 12:30 pm
Way to go Fatty!
Great job everyone who gave and to those who were an encouragement even if you did not give.
And a big thank you to Johan for his end of this agreement.
Comment by Kathy McElhaney | 12.7.2009 | 12:30 pm
I kept hitting refresh to see your LiveStrong page hit $25K. CONGRATS!!
Here’s to Team Fatty, AGAIN!!
Comment by Random Man | 12.7.2009 | 12:34 pm
Have a great time, Fatty. Holy smokes! Did you see the weekend weather forecast for Tucson? Pack light!
Comment by Bryan | 12.7.2009 | 12:36 pm
Congrats on reaching $50K.
Any chance we can get a sneak peak at the Team Radio Shack kit?
Comment by Leslie | 12.7.2009 | 12:38 pm
Amazing! Congratulations…can’t wait to read your report of your big day!
Comment by Steph | 12.7.2009 | 12:40 pm
Fatty, you are my new definition of awesome!
Way cool that Johan not only replied to you, but put forth the challenge to benefit two very worthy causes. I am more than happy to give you money every time you ask. The prizes are a nice incentive but I really doubt people are pulling out their wallets just for the prizes. Especially in this economy.
CANCER SUCKS! CHEMO SUCKS! PORTS SUCK! RADIATION SUCKS! EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS DREADFUL DISEASE SUCKS!
FATTY, YOU ROCK AND INSPIRE ME DAILY TO KEEP FIGHTING THE FIGHT.
Go show the big dogs how it’s done.
Comment by Jeff Bush | 12.7.2009 | 12:42 pm
Keep these contests coming. This is great! What a fun way to give to great causes.
Comment by asmathews (Alex) | 12.7.2009 | 12:44 pm
Bring on the Trek Madone! Both $25,000 goals have been surpassed! What a great community! Go Team Fatty!!!
Comment by Marcy T. | 12.7.2009 | 12:51 pm
Congratulations Fatty! Dare I say that I thought the 50K would be a stretch?!?!? I am so naive, but happy to help!
Comment by UphillBattle | 12.7.2009 | 12:54 pm
Huzzah! Team Fatty has not only met, but exceeded the expectations of Mr. Bruyneel! Way to go fellow Fatties!
Comment by mac9 | 12.7.2009 | 1:01 pm
Done and Done – Yeah Team Fatty!
Fight like Terri
Comment by Raph | 12.7.2009 | 1:01 pm
Hi there
Became aware of your site thanks to Johan challenging you. Donated to both causes.
Am amazed at the response and want to congratulate you and Johan for the initiative and results. Well done!!!
If I win, I will ride the Madone up the Madone, sell it and give the proceeds to both charities.
Comment by Penina | 12.7.2009 | 1:02 pm
Watch out, Johan looks about to up the ante yet once again!
Sorry I could not assist in this initial surge, but payday is Friday, so 8 AM, I’ll be adding my MORE than 2 cents to both worthy charities.
Comment by Penina | 12.7.2009 | 1:03 pm
One question….are these LS donations going to count towards Team Fatty’s LiveSTRONG Challenge goal????
Comment by NYCCarlos | 12.7.2009 | 1:11 pm
JB’s Most recent tweet: “Congrats @fatcyclist & every1 else 4 accomplishing the 2 goals. BUT I’m someonewho always sets new goals. Are you ready for the next 1???”
I wonder what’s next!?!?
Comment by OldManUtah | 12.7.2009 | 1:12 pm
Bring it JB!!
Comment by Turt99 | 12.7.2009 | 1:13 pm
WOW, this is insane.
Comment by B'gup | 12.7.2009 | 1:16 pm
The fact that some people only feel compelled to donate if there is the possibility of reward makes me think they need to live in a Skinner box.
Donate because it’s the right thing to do. Donate because you know someone WILL benefit. Donate because we could be the ones on the receiving end of either of these foundations in the blink of an eye. Donate because this is a beautiful day and we can still appreciate it.
If you cannot donate money, then encourage others who can. Or better, donate your time. It’s not about the reward, it’s about life.
GO HARD, FATTY!! You inspire me to keep pushing the limits and when I’m staring at the wall, in whatever capacity it is, I think of people like you to keep going.
Thank-you!!!
Comment by Erik | 12.7.2009 | 1:29 pm
Cancer took my Dad. I will fight cancer until my dying breath. The schwag is all good gravy but this effort is nothing short of amazing. $50 large raised in a weekend. People underestimated us. We showed em. Bring on the next challenge. I’m proud to be a member of Team Fatty.
Comment by Andrew | 12.7.2009 | 1:39 pm
Awesome! First time donating. Have a blast at camp.
Comment by Doug | 12.7.2009 | 1:41 pm
Go get-em. Now you will get your chance to suck Lance’s wheel!
Luck,
Doug
Comment by Kylie | 12.7.2009 | 1:45 pm
This is getting a little ridiculous! Anyone else giddy with excitement waiting to see what Johan will come up with next????? I’m all “a flutter”. I hate to leave my computer in case I miss it!!!
Comment by bmateja | 12.7.2009 | 1:54 pm
Congratulations Fatty! One recommendation for post-ride meal: Cafe Poca Costa. One of the best meals I have ever eaten. http://cafepocacosatucson.com/
Comment by FNEditor | 12.7.2009 | 2:19 pm
It’s a good think JB doesn’t have a comment section on his blog cause he’d be inundated with taunts and told-you-so’s.
You guys are all awesome. By the time I read this post the goals had already been met.
Crazy.
Comment by Juls | 12.7.2009 | 2:24 pm
Way to go Team Fatty!!! We did again! Admittedly, I thought the $25,000 for each would be tough. Couldn’t believe my eyes when I logged in this morning and saw we surpassed the goal!!! Fantastico!
looking forward to Johan’s next challenge.
Continuing to FIGHT LIKE SUSAN!
Comment by UACyclist | 12.7.2009 | 2:29 pm
Go Fatty! Two great causes to donate to. People shouldn’t care why others donate. If the giveaways and schwag make people donate then great! That just means more money for the cause. Negative comments aren’t needed. Hope to cya in Tucson Fatty! P.s. Tell the team to ride the Shootout (local race ride) saturday morning!
Comment by Bradley | 12.7.2009 | 2:37 pm
Sweet! Fatty, this goes back to all you do and have done for Susan and others. While not part of your team (I was riding for another), one of the best memories of this year’s LIVESTRONG Challenge – Austin was of you standing at the finish line meeting and gretting all the folks who rode for Team Fatty. Johan and Lance, this is for you and your causes as well! Thanks guys!
Comment by Laura H. | 12.7.2009 | 2:45 pm
E,
Tell Johan: Next time, give us a REAL challenge. ;-)
Great job everybody!!!
Comment by KT | 12.7.2009 | 2:54 pm
The suspense is killing me!
Comment by hak1308 | 12.7.2009 | 3:01 pm
Well done Fatty and Really well done all that donated. I wonder what Mr. Bruyneel as in mind now!
Hey Fatty, do you have room in your suitcase for me?
Comment by Sprocketboy | 12.7.2009 | 3:02 pm
Nobody should underestimate the power of Fatty. Are we going for $100G for Friday now?
Comment by cece at work | 12.7.2009 | 3:05 pm
UNBELIEVABLE! We more than did it! I have my WIN Tee shirt on today so I can celebrate!
Fight like Susan!
Cece
Comment by Russell | 12.7.2009 | 3:11 pm
I only became aware of the Fat Cyclist when you posted your letter to Johan. Since then I read and watched videos about Fatty’s story. I saw Johans reply and watched this challenge out of curosity. What you and Team Fatty have achieved here (and previous years) is fantastic. Truly inspirational stuff. Congratulations and have a fantastic day
Comment by Tyler | 12.7.2009 | 3:57 pm
You, sir, lead an epic life.
Another donation from me — and that’s coming from a broke college student, so you know you’ve done something right. Thank you for everything you do.
Comment by AngieG | 12.7.2009 | 4:16 pm
Hey FC, no 6 mintue head start for Lance this time.
Go Fatty Go!!!
Comment by sygyzy | 12.7.2009 | 4:21 pm
I just donated to both foundations and you’ll get matching from my company too so that’s double.
Comment by MOCougFan | 12.7.2009 | 4:43 pm
FC… You raised 25K in 7 hours. That sir is impressive.
Your a good man Elden. Good to know you.
Chad
Comment by Anonymous | 12.7.2009 | 4:43 pm
by all that’s holy, this is frickin’ amazing. A few hundred to go to $60K.
ELDEN NELSON HAS A POSSE!
Comment by Yukirin Boy | 12.7.2009 | 4:48 pm
Wow, you are all Awesome.
Donated.
Comment by Steven Baker | 12.7.2009 | 4:54 pm
Fatty,
This is the first time I have seen your blog and I can say honestly and with complete certainty that what you have created is a little bit of magic at a time of year when I like to believe. Thanks a million and good luck to you at camp, you lucky sod.
Comment by Haven (KT) | 12.7.2009 | 4:56 pm
Holy cow, I don’t read the blog for a couple of days and it’s all gone CRAZY!!! :) 50k in 4 days?? Madness. But it’s the good kind of madness.
Way to go, Team Fatty!!! But just because we made it to 50K doesn’t mean we stop.
Fatty, are you going to sing songs around the campfire and tell scary ghost stories at camp? Have fun!!!
Comment by M Blizzard | 12.7.2009 | 5:09 pm
I have followed Fatty for a while since a good friend of mine (Daniel) pointed out how Fatty hated cancer as much as I do. After losing both my wife’s parents to colon cancer and I will be very likely to face that same condition due to my own health concerns, I can say that this is a personnel issue.
I purchased the Win T-shirt from Twin-Six for my wife partly because the proceeds would go to Fatty and the fact that I share Fatty’s passion against cancer. I gave the shirts to my wife who does not really follow the blog but she looked at the shirt, saw the tear, and said “He must have really loved her.” She also said it was I good thing to buy the shirts. Not because we got shirts but because it means so much more to so many people.
Regardless of how anyone feels about this effort or the next, the one thing that we all have to acknowledge and accept is that at this point in Fatty’s life, he is justified at handing out an ass kicking to cancer. I marvel at the strength, commitment, drive, and the good things this man inspires us to attempt. I will always support his efforts. Because in the end, it is likely that his efforts and those of countless others will allow us all pass along that same ass kicking in the name of a loved one that is close to us.
Comment by utemike | 12.7.2009 | 5:21 pm
dropped in the bucket. Don’t even ride. If I win a bike, it’s go on e-bay, hopefully like Gridley’s flour:
http://www.historytimes.com/fresh-perspectives-in-history/20th-century-history/cold-war/472-turning-a-sack-of-flour-into-gold-and-silver
Mark Twain wrote about it but it really happened. the story of everyone donating bikes reminded me of the sack of flour.
Ride like you mean it!
Comment by Scott in MN | 12.7.2009 | 5:25 pm
I concur about the off-base and selfish remarks of whats-his-name, and whats-his-name. Keep it to yourself dickheads.
I’m impressed and a little envious of FC’s networking abilities and fund-raising skills, well done. Contest-wise, trek/fisher/ibis/whatever… I say go for it dude.
I think you might want to consider letting everyone into the contest though… you may be in some legal trouble if someone looks at this contest. Unless you have a gambling license… being required to give consideration (i.e.-money) for a chance to win something (i.e.-bikes) is a form of gambling. This is the reason you always hear “no purchase necessary” at the end of every game-like promo or commercial. The rules may be different for charity contest, though… not sure myself. Check it out bro.
Comment by sarah | 12.7.2009 | 5:29 pm
fatty, i hope you have a really fun time in arizona. thanks for sharing so much of your life (the horrible parts AND the awesome parts) with the internet.
Comment by Jay Peitzer | 12.7.2009 | 5:32 pm
Eldon I just have to say that I’m so happy you’ll be going to Tucson to ride with those guys. It quite frankly couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy. I have been reading your blog for quite sometime now and feel as though we are friends. I’ve been through the ups and downs with you laughing and crying. This is our thanks to you. Enjoy!!!
Oh and don’t screw the pooch.
Comment by Philly Jen | 12.7.2009 | 5:33 pm
…and Fatty has just zoomed past $60K.
When I wear my Fat Cyclist gear, people sometimes look at the Clydesdale in the logo and ask, “Is that the Ferrari horse?”
Let us compare:
2009 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano: 0-60mph in 3.3 seconds
2009 Fat Cyclist: 0-$60K in 3.2 days
No contest. Put your money on the Clyde.
Comment by Jan | 12.7.2009 | 6:03 pm
I double dare you to ride the same bike you rode in Austen!
More seriously, have a great time at camp.
Comment by Sara | 12.7.2009 | 6:21 pm
Woo hoo! Start training, Fatty, you’re going! So, so happy for you. Can’t wait to hear what you’re packing!!
Comment by Surfman | 12.7.2009 | 6:24 pm
!Felicidades Fatty! Just stay on the road and send pics!
Comment by bradk | 12.7.2009 | 7:00 pm
I take bake all those mean things I’ve said over the years. Well, except one but other than that I take it all back. Hats off, Bro!
Comment by Ethan Forman | 12.7.2009 | 7:10 pm
Hey Fatty,
Good luck training with Lance! I first caught wind of your blog via Mr. Armstrong’s Twitter feed and it struck me because your wife’s name was Sue. I’m heading into my seventh PMC in August, and I’m riding in memory of a friend of mine, Sue, who died in 2006 at age 44.
A fellow rider, she got me hooked on this event in 2004. Her loss left a great void among her friends and family, and on days I don’t feel like riding much I think about her struggle and saddle up. After reading Fat Cyclist for the first time at Lance’s urging, I rode the PMC again this summer, and for some strange reason, the name Sue was everywhere on the road from Wellesley to Provincetown. There was a Team Suzy Q this year and signs for “Susan” and “Sue” were all over the road and plastered on everyone’s back. I know it was all a coincidence, your wife’s name and my friend’s, along with everyone else displaying that name along the road, but I couldn’t help thinking that all those Sues were up there, looking down on us, urging us to stay hydrated, and also not give up the fight. So I gave to the two causes tonight, well after you had gone over the 50K mark and not because I need a new Trek, but because I know that it is these little acts that make a big difference in the end! Mr. Fatty, enjoy going to training camp, and thank you for making a difference for the Sues of the world everywhere. Ethan
Comment by Erik | 12.7.2009 | 7:12 pm
And Johan throws another challenge: http://www.johanbruyneel.com/blog.html
Too bad we’ll have it met by Wednesday. What’s he gonna do to top that one?
Comment by Lynn | 12.7.2009 | 7:13 pm
Alright…JB has upped the ante: http://www.johanbruyneel.com/blog.html
Go Fatty!
Comment by gumoore | 12.7.2009 | 7:17 pm
Holy heck! Has this ever gone by my wildest dreams. Just LOVE Johan’s new challenge.
Two classy guys. Two great charities.
Allez Fatty!
Comment by Kathy McElhaney | 12.7.2009 | 7:35 pm
To people who have fought cancer, for themselves or with family members, Johan’s challenge is almost too easy! Does he know who he’s dealing with here?
Comment by Alan | 12.7.2009 | 7:35 pm
Aaaaaand now Brunyeel and Trek have upped the ante with a trip to le Tour? Excellent!
Comment by Laura | 12.7.2009 | 8:00 pm
This is so amazing!!! I cannot believe the generosity. I hope you have the time of your life!
Comment by Robin Caron | 12.7.2009 | 8:06 pm
Holy Batman. You are a money raising machine. Congrats!
Comment by Juls | 12.7.2009 | 8:14 pm
OUI, OUI FATTY!!! Maybe Rosetta Stone will donate some French lessons – you will need them!!!
Comment by bubba seadog | 12.7.2009 | 8:21 pm
wore my win tee the other day everyone loved it and i steered them to your site. keep doin what you do you cant make everyone happy but you can make a differnce. tip for lance and livestrong offer one of those training pkgs as a contest incentive to a regular cyclist now that would be fantastic fight like susan!
Comment by RoadApplz | 12.7.2009 | 8:24 pm
Allez Fatty!
Baby, can I drive your car? It’s clear you’re the best kind of star.
This is so much fun! Funds have been so tight since I started reading your blog in May when a friend was diagnosed with cancer I’ve never felt able to donate, but enjoyed your blog and watching your fundraising success.
This time I said, screw it, and donated everything I could spare. I did it even though I knew you would make it without my donations.
It’s because I wanted them to see Fatty and Friends rise up like your rearing horse logo to the challenge and rock their socks off!
And, yes, Johan rocks! What a great spirit he has.
What is very clear is that you two are incredibly similar in many respects: passionate about cycling, sense of humor, generosity of spirit, a deep sense of family and humanity as well as just pure class.
I hope you have the time of your life and that this is just the first stage.
Comment by Jason | 12.7.2009 | 9:03 pm
Elden – you’re a great guy and all, but $60K or whatever your at, in a few days, on an unplanned whim – dude. Way to knock it out of the park. Remind me to carry your water bottles for you next time up AF canyon – really cool man.
Comment by Russell | 12.7.2009 | 9:12 pm
I will certainly be a fan of Team Radio Shack this year! (I’m already a proud member of Team Fatty).
Comment by El Gato | 12.7.2009 | 9:14 pm
If Fatty wins I want the Shack guys riding in Team Fatty Jerseys!!!!!!!
Fight Like Susan!!!!
Go Fatty!
Comment by Tonya | 12.7.2009 | 9:25 pm
I think we overloaded poor Johan’s site, because I can’t get in to see the new challenge. What is it?
Comment by John | 12.7.2009 | 9:29 pm
Go Team Fatty Shack!
Comment by Robert | 12.7.2009 | 9:36 pm
Rock it.
Rock it real good.
Comment by Rose | 12.7.2009 | 9:59 pm
Insanely impressive Friends of Fatty!!! Keep it going!
Comment by Yukon19 | 12.7.2009 | 10:08 pm
Donated to both great causes, Keep it up team Fatty!
Comment by jwbucha | 12.7.2009 | 10:09 pm
ok, ok here.
fatty has a posse.
Comment by jill | 12.7.2009 | 11:26 pm
The sheer power of a handful of blog posts is humbling. Good work everyone!
Comment by Patty Guinta | 12.7.2009 | 11:50 pm
I would make the winner of the trip a great travel companion! (assuming I am not the winner of course)
Comment by cheapie | 12.7.2009 | 11:53 pm
i literally found out 5 minutes ago that a good friend of mine just died of cancer leaving a wife, son, and lots of devastated friends. i am so distraught. i’ll donate cuz it’s the only thing i can do.
Comment by Chrisb | 12.8.2009 | 1:13 am
The new challenge is $50k for each cause and Trek Travel puts up a trip to the TdF finale! We’re over halfway already…
Comment by sarah | 12.8.2009 | 1:38 am
yay!
Comment by Andrew | 12.8.2009 | 5:46 am
How much do we have to raise before Johan lets Fatty ride Le Tour?
Pingback by Team radio shack, cancer et fat cyclist... - Velocia | 12.8.2009 | 8:44 am
[...] radio shack, cancer et fat cyclist… Aller voir sur le blog de fat cyclist pour participer ? une lev?e de fonds pl?tot sp?ciale d?marr?e par fat cyclist et Johan Bruyneel [...]
Pingback by Fat Cyclist » Blog Archive » This Contest Is Now Completely, Ridiculously Awesome | 12.8.2009 | 8:55 am
[...] « Fight Cancer, Help Kids In Africa, and Win a Custom Fat Cyclist-Edition Superfly or Madone Signed by… [...]
Comment by Bryan | 12.8.2009 | 11:05 am
Hey, just wanted say that what you do is awesome. I donated to both. I couldn’t imagine riding with team shack in Tucson,where there is no snow.
Trackback by Serving Humanity Since 1966 | 12.8.2009 | 11:36 am
Bruyneel And Trek Throw Bigger Gauntlets…
If you read my previous post about this, and read the links, then you know what’s going on. If you have not, then I am going to tell you.Last Thursday, cyclist/blogger/cancer-fighting-fundraiser, Elden Nelson (Fatty from fatcyclist.com) wrote a tongue…
Trackback by Dummocrats.com | 12.8.2009 | 11:38 am
Fight Cancer, Help Kids In Africa, and Win a Custom Fat Cyclist-Edition Superfly or Madone Signed by Team RadioShack…
Fight Cancer, Help Kids In Africa, and Win a Custom Fat Cyclist-Edition Superfly or Madone Signed by Team RadioShack…
Comment by TimK | 12.8.2009 | 1:53 pm
This may have been brought up in this post, and forgive me if I’m replicating somebody’s idea, but I think for all intents and purposes you and the rest of us donors are doing a splendid job at marketing for Team Radio Shack while raising huge money for two great causes. I think you are in position as our representative to demand matching or donations from Team Radio Shack to both causes in the name of the Team Fatty. I mean they’re making one of THE top cycling journalists pay to work for them?! What nerve?!
Comment by OldManUtah | 12.8.2009 | 8:08 pm
$50057 on the Bike site. Now we need to get $2000 more for Livestrong.
Comment by Laura | 12.8.2009 | 9:13 pm
I had to check one more time before going to bed – it looks like we did it! I am completely amazed.
Comment by davidh | 12.8.2009 | 9:44 pm
so…how much do we need to raise to drive the team bus?
go fatty
Comment by Tracy | 12.9.2009 | 9:49 am
Just checked Johann’s website/blog and he has the rooming list posted and I noticed that Lance has his own room. I think at the very least YOU should also have private accommodations and if they cannot provide it, you should bunk with Lance.
And OH YEAH the team SO NEEDS TO WEAR FATTY JERSEYS!
Comment by Laura H. | 12.9.2009 | 12:04 pm
RE: Andrew
“How much do we have to raise before Johan lets Fatty ride Le Tour?”
I like your style, Andrew! Hey E, ask Johan! lol
Comment by Gee Li | 12.10.2009 | 8:58 am
An excellent fundraiser for an excellent cause. I’m only sorry that I heard about it just now. You’ve got my support and how far $50 will go. Best of luck!
Comment by Justin | 12.10.2009 | 2:38 pm
Donation made. I agree, since the Shack kits are not finished yet, have them add the Team Fatty logo or “Fight Like Susan”!
Comment by Penina | 12.11.2009 | 4:12 am
Whew, paycheck finally in, so donations made.
GO FATTY!
Do us proud!
(you already do, you know…)
Pingback by Fat Cyclist » Blog Archive » Tour of California Stage 7: Backseat Driver Report, Part I | 05.24.2010 | 10:31 am
[...] Fight Cancer, Help Kids in Africa, and Win a Custom Fat Cyclist-Edition Superfly or Madone Signed by… [...]
Pingback by Fat Cyclist » Blog Archive » This One’s For Me, Part I | 06.2.2010 | 8:42 am
[...] know how Gary Fisher gave away a Superfly in Fat Cyclist colors as part of the contest I did with Johan Bruyneel last December? AKA the “FattyFly?” Well, there’s a little piece of the story I haven’t [...]
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