When crewing for RAAM, one of the largest taks is to stay stocked with supplies and provisions.  Not only does the crew have to think about food prep in the support vehicle where they rest and recoup, but also the follow vehicle which can never take itself away from the rider except just long enough to obtain fuel.

We go thru 13 states in less than 9 days and shop at least twice a day.  We shop frequently for a few reasons:  with the time of year, we have to stay stocked with ice to keep the riders cool; meals need to be prepared fresh and crew and riders are more likely to eat something purchased within the last 24 to 36 hours; and finally, understanding that no support vehicle has unlimited storage space.

Keeping all that in mind, we spend a lot of time in Wal Marts across the US.  Consistency is key when trying to develop a routine…Wal Mart fits this need as 98% are open 24 hrs which means the bathrooms are almost always available (nice when u r tired of trying to find a tree, bush or rock).  Quick access to ice, water, food, basic tools for emergency situations (bolt cutters when the bike lock is broken and wont come off) is nearly always guaranteed.  Store management is very friendly for  temporarily camping out in vehicles of all sizes making the well lit parking lots safe places to wait for riders and make team exchanges.

13 states = a lot of time spent in and around WalMart.  Thanks for your hospitality.

~sara