How We WON The 12 HOURS of Road America (A Story That Changed My Life)

[@4everfrankie449]

I am a parent of a special needs child. I've been following you since the beginning. I don't even think you fully realize the impact you have had on the cycling community. You are a legend sir.

[@cjohnson913]

Total Legend!

[@TheVCAdventures]

Thank you for the kind words man. And something I try to do is not think or assume that I have any impact. I fear that if I let myself take in and process the amount of people who watch these videos, it would change me for the worse. I see a lot of youtubers get to a point where they start referring to people as "FANS" and that might not seem like a big deal, but its a huge mental shift. So I just think, or try to think, that I make these videos for a good friend. It just happens to be that I have a large group of good friends.

[@gravelpack8536]

@@TheVCAdventures beautiful man

[@rob9386]

Couldn't agree more. Such great content and this was on another level and very emotional.

[@IMV-Pro]

Bro - Total legent -

[@reolistic97]

What I found about Tyler is that he dares to ask. He asks the questions we all ponder upon, but don´t dare the ask. And he just does. He doesn´t ask to mock, he doesn´t ask because he´s insensitive. He asks to learn. Like when asking about why these athletes participate. We all wondered why they´d want to sit in there. But almost no one dares to ask, because they´re afraid of insulting them. Tyler just asks, so he can learn and show more respect. Massive props for that.

[@Stoffendous]

Pretty sure hes an enfp in mbti terms. They tend to do that.

[@sleepcycle8032]

When Kayla said "we can chat like we're old friends" immediately put tears into my eyes. Awesome job and thank you for sharing the video!

[@2rismo]

Came here to post this. Exactly this.

[@ellismccoy]

So very true.

[@joangregg4378]

Guess I wasn't the only person who cried.😥 Kayla was pretty awesome.

[@BrianDavisraces]

SAME 100%

[@llewisiv]

Same here

[@datkinsify]

I was an angel, and it was one of the best things I have ever done. Whenever it got hard, my captain, would say "You're doing great Dave, we can do this...." or "you're awesome Dave..." I cried three or four times on that ride because of how encouraging he was and the positive outlook he had.....I haven't raced since, it just felt too self-centered.

[@timrees7422]

Aww man...this is your best video. I've got to admit, I didn't really "get" this type of event before watching this, I fully do now. Major respect to what you did here, there's so much to take from this video from everyone that watches it.

[@XeLYoutube]

The way he describe all his inner process too, super honest and caring.

[@XeLYoutube]

Emotional, so much compasion and care, and lightness and fun. i just watch the video and feel the potent special energy of the event

[@matthewdueck357]

Hey Vegan Cyclist. Thank you for serving Kayla in an amazing way by being her angel. I personally have minor cerebral palsy and am working/training towards racing my first ever race this coming year against normal riders. Great job!

[@michaeltretiak5950]

I’m not crying. You’re crying … Amazing work!

[@flatbushzombiejuice]

I´m definitely crying!

[@cjohnson913]

Dammit, who's cutting onions?!

[@barrylafleur6220]

Still not crying, 15 minutes after finishing the video....

[@rob9386]

You are crying 😭

[@alexanderwademd]

A year and a half ago, when the world was shut down, I got something about this ride. On a lark, my family signed up and we rode. We didn't know what we were in for. We didn't know much. Most of us rode mountain bikes, in shorts. Some of us made it 50 miles. The COVID thing was in full swing. The announcer said, "We thought about cancelling. We knew hosting the ride would be hard. We do the hard thing." I got choked up then, and I got choked up again watching your video. VC, it was great to see you out there this year, and maybe we'll get a chance to ride together next year.

[@ercmadden]

Tyler- You’ve proven that you’re a beast with things like the impossible rides, this, the off the couch Ironman etc. But your videos also show that you seem to be a kickass person too. Kudos.

[@rescavone6690]

“To the world you may be one person; but to one person you may be the world” - Dr. Seuss. That was one of the slogans for a sports camp for special needs kids I spent some time with years ago. It showed me pure and true courage, determination, hope and everything in between in the rawest form. It changed my heart and I found myself going home many days with a tear drop or two of happiness and many other emotions. What you did is truly special and the experience you’ve given Kayla can’t be quantified. Joy cannot be quantified. I’ve been watching your adventures for sometime now. I think this is one the most meaningful videos (haven’t seen ALL of them yet) you have ever done.

[@soloist777]

As a fellow vegan cyclist I'm perhaps one of your biggest fans down under for I love watching your hardcore adventures thru' stunning country but mate, you've excelled yourself here! I loved your self examination before the event, and everyone can see you did it for the right reasons, for Kayla. I think in just under 29min you've captured exactly what life is all about- ie helping others, showing kindness and compassion for others and thru' that growing as a human being. Your best work here mate! Bravo! PS: I'm sure you and Kayla will now be life long besties too.

[@TheVCAdventures]

I appreciate that Lorenzo, it was really special getting to talk with Kayla for so long. before this I guess I would say I was afraid of interacting with a person with a disability as myself. But that’s completely gone now. And thats some crazy growth in 12 hours.

[@soloist777]

@@TheVCAdventures Well done mate! Keep up your great work!

[@BrianDavisraces]

Boss ride VC - that crit race was no joke earlier in the day too - relentless climbing and then you did this - unreal - mad respect for you, the ride and the reason. Well done!

[@sgameirojr]

8:35 As backwards hat Dylan would say, A DROP IS A DROP! Well done. I guess through extreme acts of hardship and self sacrifice we can connect to some of what is the essential human experience. Like fatherhood, that one being for life, rather than one 12 hour race.

[@bmxman817]

"Accomplishing goals for yourself feels good but accomplishing goals for someone else feels better"....VC, you are a true inspiration....Keep on riding with soul !

[@collinkendall2028]

Bro, I'm crying.... #CaptianKayla

[@jimpat9773]

You gave a tremendous gift to another human and wanted nothing for yourself in return. Your family deserves props for being there for you too. You're a good dude, plain and simple.

[@Stephen-nq5kd]

Contemplating altruism is a mental wrestling match we rarely win. Sometimes you just have to say eff it and do it. I’m glad you did. More importantly, hopefully Kayla’s glad you did.

[@thomaswillemin9181]

By a wide margin this is you best video ever! I am also a parent of a special needs daughter (34 yrs old now). I may have just found a new bucket list goal!

[@DarinLenny]

It was great meeting and riding with you that day. Massive effort! See you next year

[@epride38]

kayla definitely enjoying the ride you can tell she was having a big smile

[@randorecumbent]

I can't really add much to what has already been said here other than to say thank you for sharing this. It's the kind of story that shows the best of humanity. We can use more of that in the world. Great job, Tyler.

[@austinpowers1044]

Gratitude was my focus for 2021. For 2022 I have a new focus. “Accomplishing goals for yourself feels good but accomplishing goals for someone else is better”.

[@ryanalonso6517]

I have been watching your videos for a LONG time, never subscribed or thought much of the channel, there are a lot of good channels creating great cycling content on KZbin. However, this is hands down the best video I've seen from you, arguably the best cycling video I've seen in years of watching KZbin cycling channels. You are absolutely right when you say that cycling is a selfish sport and doing something like this for someone with special needs talks a lot about who you are as a person and sets great example to everyone creating content on this platform. This probably doesn't mean much in the realm of all the comments on your videos, but if you read it, congrats, exceptional work.

[@TheVCAdventures]

I appreciate that Ryan, this year has been a big for events, physical and creative growth, but man, this ride with Kayla was something on a whole different level. Thanks for the kind comment.

[@coreygolphenee9633]

Kayla has the brain of someone that would run till hallucinatie and I can't think of better coach for something like this

[@rodneywhaley7183]

This is the best video I’ve ever seen. One of Tyler’s last comments was… “Give one day of your year.” If you had $365, would you give $1? Would you give $1 to someone with special needs who has a heart bigger than your bicycle wheel? YES! And I’ll give a day as well. I’m so inspired now to find a Captain, an event and a team. Thank you Kayla!! Thank you Tyler. Yuh!!!

[@Ultegra10SPD]

This is much more of what i have come to expect from your work over the last several years. Exposing this to your kids is an even bigger score. Top marks. Stay safe. -U10

[@SinCityCycling702]

You are a lucky man Tyler. To be able to enjoy this life with your family is a gift.

[@gearsandsprockets2820]

Awesome! Just awesome!! A real selfless act, how you slayed yourself to give the opportunity to Kayla! Was great to see your daughter giving you a high five as you rode by and your son, riding along side as you crossed the finish line.

[@barrylafleur6220]

Yes, I teared up seeing your son riding along...

[@robertbristow1714]

As a parent of two children with special needs, thank you. I’ve been following you from the start and met you at Phil’s Fondo in 2019 and have been a big fan, and now I am indebted. This was a transformative video and opens the world of people with special needs to folks that never have the opportunity and blessing to be part of their lives. Way to go VC!

[@antonlasy7501]

Just finished my 200km ride, got emotional from fatigue and cried out loud watching this. You are the legend man, proud of what you did.

[@ericclaire-helenerfletcher9433]

great effort and determination , it does feel great to participate at these events , for a number of years i would help out the special olympics as a soccer referee, and i would bring along the younger ones so that they could experience how it was rewarding and fun, with teams made up of all ages and skills , from teenagers up to much older youngsters i will say , as you mentioned you where there for Kayla that words are sometimes not enough to describe that feeling , Kudo's for a great job

[@mopedvieh]

Despite all the epic rides, impossible routes and so forth, this might be the most important video you've made so far. I have huge respect for the effort you gave on and off the bike by just doing this event and openly talk about what was going through your head. Thanks for sharing that experience.

[@mbararacitycyclingclub4984]

Most of the time we go to races to put our names on the top of the list. Giving out this race to Kayla was amazing and I "am" sure that you have made each one of us that has watched this video start thinking differently about other people.

[@rodrigocastro9323]

What a legend, what a g. Kayla and VC are made of gold.

[@nancisumaya6157]

Thank you for giving back. I appreciate your generosity & kindness to think beyond yourself! 💕

[@jessicaangell8870]

As a myTeam Triumph WI angel and crew member - thank you for doing this! Kayla is an amazing young lady! Looking forward to seeing you and your crew next month!

[@extraterrestre1590]

You are my hero man!!! For someone with a special needs kid and cycling enthusiast you brought tears 😭 … thank you for doing this video and I am glad I follow you and will continue to support your channel

[@jbratt]

I have a friend that is blind. We got together and won the tandem state TT in the open class back in the day. It was a tough class no gimme. Then I did an MS150 with him because he didn’t have a captain. Anyone out there that has a chance to help out someone in a similar position- do it. Oh Road America is awesome. I raced way way back when I did Motorsports.good on you!

[@richard7059]

I just been asked if I could Dothat with my tandem ! Am In !

[@crbondur]

Love it that so many people worked WITH you to help y'all get up the hill. So many heroes, including YOU! Thanks for sharing this personal story.

[@nicholasjones3554]

Every time I watch a VC video, I'm somehow hooked from the start. Doesn't matter the event - from the first second, I can't pause it, can't stop it and come back to it. I'm enthralled until the end. And I realized while watching this video that it's because Tyler is one of the purest and most genuine people I've encountered in any capacity. He verbalizes thoughts we all have, but unlike most of us, he doesn't sift every minute thought through a filter for fear of some sort of judgment. He speaks purely, displays vulnerability, and I think he might be the most genuine person on KZbin for that. Moreover, he really just seems like an altogether good person. VC, thanks for being a good person, and thanks for being a good person in such a public way. The world is better off because of the stories you tell. And congratulations on your successes, on and off the bike.

[@potoplayer]

Hell yeah man. Was stoked for this vid and it didn't disappoint. Glad you could make it to my home state.

[@jmo2640]

So epic 🙌🏼…nice work VC

[@adsholly1]

thank you for sharing the ride with us, especially the guilt you felt before the ride its something you could easily have left out. great effort by everyone

[@bikerdude7858]

Undue respect for ya man taking on the responsibility to enrich a less fortunate life. We should all appreciate the fact what we can do when others have such difficulties.

[@h20s8804]

I grew up there, in WI. All my friends can tell you how nostalgic I am.. "like this one time, at bandcamp." Used to do Superweek races (fresca intl cycling classic) in the 90's at Road America and watched the superbike races there too. A member of my family has special needs--good on you for taking part. Too many of us don't really have any experience with those with 'different abilities' as you said :)

[@AyahuascaSage]

You're such a badass, Tyler. As a fellow veg guy, you've inspired me so much to work harder on the bike and get as strong as I can to crush it out on the race course. Charity is important to me too and you've put this on the radar for me! I'm definitely checking out events where I could work with people to help them achieve their dreams and bond with others!

[@johnhoopingarner8262]

Okay, I admit that this made me cry and appreciate that there are amazing people like Tyler and all the other awesome Angels doing great things to help others and make the world a little bit better. Thank you for inspiring the rest of us 🙏

[@adventuresona700dollarhard5]

Protect this man at all costs.

[@pmrize]

Two beautiful people doing their thing.... Awesome!

[@darrelduke]

i have been involved with special olympics off and on for most of my life either through teams i have ridden for or just personal. never fails that the tears flow because it’s always about them and not me. this year i will bring my son and daughter to hopefully continue the tradition. thanks for being a part of the event and the video.

[@PuhPuhPuhShell]

Truly enjoyed. Pulling my special needs son in a burley trailer comes in around 80#s. Climbing hills is no joke while towing weight, really impressed!

[@KarlenBell]

Watching all the way towards the end of the video brought me to tears.

[@Vegan_Touring_Cyclist]

My cousin is in a worse condition, but from the same reason, she can not even talk. It was nice of you to make his wishes come true.

[@bloodsord9]

You're a monster! Won a crit in a solo breakaway and then did 12 hours with Kayla, winning that event too!? This video had me smiling the entire time. Good man!

[@SS-ey7kt]

Truly touching and inspiring, Tyler. You have a heart of gold and watching this video makes me think about my future cycling goals on the bike. There is no better reward then competing for another person. On days it’s hard, I say to myself, “you don’t have to ride your bike, you get to ride your bike” Thank you for supporting Kala and being an Angel.

[@C.Medina]

Love you for this Tyler. I had a brother with special needs (moebious syndrome ) and he passed away on 2014 suddenly. Got lost in my life from it and found cycling in 2016 as my open door after it. Everything I did before his dead count for him and me, and now cycling is for him. Mayor....mayor respect for what you have done.

[@stuartmcgill5065]

You've done a lot of cool and tough stuff in your videos, Tyler, but this showed us all what a huge heart you actually have. This was awesome and Kayla will never forget it. Great respect for you, VC.

[@Enigma71559]

Dude!! I love ya brother! This is one of the coolest videos you've EVER posted. So proud of your effort. I hope you are too!

[@davetri3]

Watched for years. This is the best story you have ever done. Well done!!!!

[@guitarkis4969]

Thank you for letting us witness the change that took place for you. Your support team helping are all very special people. Not just cyclist....very special people. As are you. Give your family some love from us for supporting you also.

[@wspmjw]

Tyler, once again you've given voice to the questions and thoughts we all have when asked to do something outside of our experience and thus comfort zone. I'm thrilled for you that you accomplished two HUGE goals within 24 hours. Winning a Crit as a warm-up for a 12-hour challenging effort, so crazy, but as I've come to see on your vids, so 'you'. Thanks for bringing your family with you as I know that trip was time well spent and having their support nearby was critical to your accomplishments. Of course a HUGE shout-out to your reason for being their Kayla. Awesome inspiration and supporting you was priceless. Thanks for another inspiring story.

[@coreygolphenee9633]

Whens all on the line for your sense of self and you still perform that is the definition of Clutch

[@briantravis1851]

Cody, you are a gentleman... Tyler you are a legend mate.... Kayla is an inspiration... this made my Monday.

[@jaybobd]

I can't imagine there will be a win in your career that feels better than this one. Really inspiring. Thank you for being a part of good things in the world and spreading the word.

[@raelbelterman1233]

A brilliant video. I love how you shared your learning process and the emotions you experienced. Excellent effort Kayla and all involved!

[@danielfarrell6300]

Only been watching you for a little while, but this is by far my favorite video you’ve ever made. Amazed by you and your heart for others, as well as your ability to tell incredible stories!

[@rickorwig986]

Brought tears to my eyes. Just beautiful!

[@daveebert7747]

I am speachless, probably from the lump in my throat and the tears in my eyes. I have followed you on many adventures. This my friend is your greatest accomplishment. Not the physical act but the telling of this story. Opening our eyes to this community. Expanding our awareness of others and their needs. Cementing the fact that when you give you end up getting so much in return. Thank you for sharing this.

[@christopher2041]

I’ve watched all of your videos at least twice now and you are a wonderful human being, please keep at it, i tear up and get the chills every time

[@damonlecompte838]

Gotta say , amazing content again bro. So inspiring and so awesome to see the depth of your character you display without holding back . You doing great things with this channel for yourself , Kayla, and your viewers , keep it up!

[@raffitavoukjian7772]

Not only this was a life experience for you and Kayla, you just showed your young ones many valuable lessons as well. You never need to stand on a 1st place podium to be a hero. This goes beyond any podium. Congratulations.

[@JDirom]

Dude I love you are so open in your conversation with the camera. Thanks for an amazing video.

[@fraji1]

Bro…hard to find words to describe what I just saw. Congrats to you, Kayla and your team. “What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.”

[@chrisblanchard4938]

That was an amazing story. You are amazing and you gave Kayla something you both will never forget. Well done!

[@cristianditommaso81]

As a father watching tour daugther give you an high five at the end of the race was really emotional Moment, i was lucky enough to have a similar Moment in One of my running marathons

[@victorlwd]

whoever is cutting onions stop it !!!, cause this vid brought tears to my eyes, thnx for doing this and making some1's day. i salute an am entirnely graftefull for u making/posting this video. much love bro

[@flpirate4565]

Awesome, your a hero and a great person. Congrats to Kayla.

[@monrezee]

Proud of Kayla inspiring you two to be a great team together.

[@GardieJackson]

This is, by far, the best one you have ever posted, Tyler! You are a champion for making Kayla a champion! Best VG video ever. You made me feel like I was there too.

[@joerenner8334]

Thanks for sharing! Glad you had the chance to have that epiphany that some of us are lucky enough to have. Great video. Sounds like you are a man of great character. I bet your family is super duper proud of you.

[@brandenjoak]

Love this, VC

[@jarodlikens1909]

A monster with a heart. How can anyone not like this guy

[@anthonymiller4004]

VC - I normally don't do the comments thing, but Bro you are a Legend well done man. Inspiring people to be brave and become better humans, this is magic stuff.

[@marcuswilson4083]

This is awesome! To sacrifice yourself for the greater good is a wonderful example how we can accomplish anything when we come together.

[@pauloh4571]

I've been a grateful fan ever since I first watched your channel. Now I'm someone who has extraordinary respect for you. You are a good man, Tyler.

[@tommyc6681]

Dude! What you are doing is phenomenal. Love seeing people do something not for their own but for others. Wish I could join such events one day. Being someone rides the bike or even just pushing the handle will make me happy. You are a legend.

[@DurellSama]

Thank you for sharing this story. I don’t know if your team is getting better or you’re just becoming a better filmmaker. Kudos for being an amazing angel for an Incredible Iron Man. 💚

[@richardrutishauser4689]

Good on ya, Tyler! I was moved to tears by this video

[@trwilliams22]

What a guy! I hope this video encourages others to go do something for someone else. That’s my plan leaving this video.

[@shaunmaher6997]

Good job Kayla chapeau..! Great job VC, bet that felt better than any victory/result.

[@roddas26]

This changed my opinion of you forever. Thank you.

[@fastlx13]

I can't hit the thumbs up enough for your complete determination to unselfishly win for Kayla. Bravo siR

[@michaelmetternich]

Hi Tyler, You are a real idol and a great inspiration for all who watch this video, for your children and for your family. Your face and your eyes speak the change that these 12 hours have made in you. Thank you for the video

[@owenkid]

Dude absolute legend this made my day even better that is so awesome that you did that

[@alfrazi2194]

CHAPEAU, KAYLA and VC! CHAPEAU. What a great ride and for a great cause. Well done.

[@PK-qq1lz]

Isn't it just all about love, my friend? At least I can feel it when you are telling this story. You are such a good guy, bro! greetings from switzerland

[@lukecp]

VC you won a race...not the crit but the journey to discover ones self. Great job. Thank you for letting us share your experience!

[@TWROC96]

Very well done Tyler. It is an amazing feeling when you step out of your lane to help someone else reach their goals with the skills and talents you possess.

[@gravelpack8536]

I have always loved your channel but this one had me holding back the tears. My son is 14 now and moderate/severe and we know ride gravel rides every Tuesday and just getting to the point to do some bike packing and longer rides. So far our longest is 24 miles it has been a great way to connect with my son with his disability and my youngest with out disabilities and also invite newcomers to ride with us and share about autism. Keep up the great work.

[@svenamundsen4879]

Tyler, I am so incredibly proud of you!! What an amazingly unselfish thing you have done. Awesome job buddy!!