Dear Friends,

Since last year, I have enjoyed the committed support Jim Artis has offered Tour of Discovery. Through his efforts many in the recumbent cycling community became aware of the tour’s existence. His coverage of my 2009 continental crossing disseminated the story for the good of the many. Among these were my students and their families. We all benefited from his detailed comments and rich analysis. I am very appreciative of what he has done and continues to do.

When I invited Jim to join me on the 2010 Tour of Discovery – Ride for the Republic, I knew that an exciting new component would be added to the educational foundation that drive me to go on these journeys. In my video, I spoke about the many technologies he introduces to the world of cycling. Jim is by nature an innovator and as such is a risk taker. Nothing new gets invented; nothing new gets developed without a degree of risk on one part and skepticism on the other. Historically this has been the process. Things are always easier said than done. Yet, Jim not only says it. He writes it, and then does it. Even though I lack the engineering mind to fully understand much of his work in it is full dimension, it is evident that he put his heart into it. Furthermore, he shares not expecting to receive much more than the occasional gratitude expressed through the comments of his readers.

My students have been fascinated with the work Jim does. There is no conflict and no one is stealing the stage. Jim writes about cycling and technology and I bring the stories from the road, the photography, the videos, and many lessons to the students from across America and the world. This is an organic partnership that for this 2010 tour has evolved as a collaborative effort. The awesome spirit that existed last year within the recumbent cycling community should NOT be lost. It would be a pity. None would gain. All of us would loose and in particular the children. The tour will have its share of challenges, no doubt. And this, dear friends, makes an important and fascinating component of the story. We are yet to know how the chapters will be written. Problems will arise and they will be solved. I cordially invite all of you to join us to benefit from the experience of this fantastic journey.

Sincere regards to all,

Rafael Giraldo