Media 2

What a difference a hotel bed and a shower make! We woke up this morning with a much better outlook on the day. We wired another power inverter directly to the van's battery to keep all the power-sucking equipment happy while in route.

Chuck, Brendan, and me in the Media 2 van departed Flagstaff this morning after a quick interview with Thomas Strebel. He and his team were in good spirits.

We headed for Kayenta, AZ and the start of the largest internet and cell phone dead zone this side of Siberia. Brenden got to do a ride along with the JDRF team supporting Mark Metcalfe and got some great scoop.

We followed along and then headed for Mexican Hat, UT as the riders entered the breathtaking Monument Valley area. We staked out a location to catch Spain's Julian Sanz in front of one of the many rock formations.

We caught up to the Race Across the West leader Thomas Lavallee as he extended his lead over Metcalfe. He continued on through Mexican Hat and Montezuma Creek on his way to Cortez, CO. The riders got their first dose of rain in Colorado, which was probably a welcome change from the dusty conditions they've faced since they left Oceanside.

Lavallee is expected to be crowned the 2010 Race Across the West winner this evening in Durango, CO around 11:00 p.m. local time, barring any problems or a strong finishing surge from Metcalfe. We'll be there to witness the action and bring you images and video. Until then, take care!