Rollerblading the Defi de L’lle de Montreal
A couple weeks ago, I wrote about an incredible accomplishment of one of our employees in Toronto — rollerblading almost 50km for MS. Alain Quintard has done it again, this time rollerblading the Defi de L’lle de Montreal (Montreal Island Challenge). Here’s his story!
On Saturday, October 18, I completed my 4th “Défi de L’Ile de Montréal”. Before starting, I was not too optimistic, thinking I wouldn’t have as good of a performance as last year. But I think all the planets were in line for me this year, and after approximately 30,000 strokes, 3 liters of Gatorade, 4 liters of water, and no wipe outs, I completed the 128 km event in 6 hours and 54 minutes. Simply amazing!
Not only did I break the 7 hour mark (I had considered that out of my reach), but I also shave 19 minutes off my best time from last year. I can humbly say that I don’t know why I got such a good result but, in fact, I can think of several excellent reasons:
- There was almost no wind for the entire run. Huge factor!
- I had brand new wheels and bearings so friction was reduce to a minimum. Another important factor.
- The surface was completely dry - Montréal had not received rain for 3 days prior to the event. Thanks to my friend Jeff who confirmed with me before the run that he was to talk to the weather gods!
- The temperature was a little cool (only 2 degrees) at 6:00 in the morning when we started, but the risk of having a heat stroke was nil
- And the main factor: my friends Patrice and Michel who escorted me on their bikes along this challenge. Not only did they carry water and energy drinks, but they also “pampered” me to ensure I wasn’t missing anything: “Do you need water?”, “How you’re doing?”, “Not too tired?”, “Keep on going!”. They even opened the road to protect me from the light breeze facing us and were regularly pointing out cracks and holes in the asphalt. They no doubt helped me surpass my performance, and feel quite honored and privileged to have run with such great guys!
Overall, I finished in much better shape compared to previous years; I only have to report a few blisters on both feet that are already healing quite nicely.
I’m now taking what I believe is a well deserved break while still enjoying the satisfaction of having achieved something really “out of the norm”. But before long you will see me again around the block on my wheels!
Finally, I should add that during this run, I had a special thoughts for those who unfortunately will never have the opportunity of doing what I did because of some physical handicap. Of course, I’m thinking of people affected by MS, a cause dear to my heart. But there are also many other people facing different hurdles. I sincerely hope that everyone will remember that regardless of how difficult a challenge seems to be, patience and determination can accomplish a lot - one step forward is one step closer to reaching a goal. Although sometimes you won’t “win”, just trying is already a victory.
Thank you all for taking the time to read this note.
Cheers,
Alain
