Fri 31 Aug 2007
Banquet’s over and some have already seen the official results. I placed 17th…which exceeds my wildest expectations. Huge props to my first leg riding partner, Doug Chapman, for leading this rookie through the first leg and getting started on the second.
I had hoped to just finish this thing….as there was a 25% wash-out rate and even long-time veteran riders agreed ‘07 was the hardest rally ever. So, I’m revelling in a to 20 finish, getting a bit drunk….and will get up to drive back with Dad and the bike in back of the truck. We’ll probably take 2 or 3 days to get back.
I’ll also try and use some of that time to detail the ride more extensively than I could while on the ride. Somehow, I think my literary skills….like remembering certain words….will be much better after having gotten a full night’s sleep.
Signing out from St. Louis
Matt Watkins - 2007 Iron Butt Rally Finisher

August 31st, 2007 at 6:59 pm
Yea Matt, your literary skills are still doing ok. But I did log in and correct some spelling. Should have left it for posterity!!
You Rock. 17th is very, very respectable!!! In fact, more than respectable.
Jimmy
August 31st, 2007 at 7:28 pm
17th is GREAT! Finishing is great, but 17th? Holy shit. Amazing! Congratulations. No doubt it will be a memory that will stick with you forever. Even sitting in that nursing home when you’re 95, you’ll think back fondly on this. :)
August 31st, 2007 at 7:29 pm
Matt,
Good Job.
Damn Good Job.
August 31st, 2007 at 7:47 pm
Gold medal finish - way to go! Seems like forever ago that Rich called me after meeting you in Urbana!
Glad you made it!!!
September 1st, 2007 at 8:42 am
Matt, Congratulations on your stellar performance!!! 17th place is quite an amazing accomplishment. Now, get some rest. I can’t wait for the full write up.