You Need No Victory To Be A Winner – Review

By John Foote on Apr 15, 2011 with Comments 0

Dr Michael Nehls uses the platform of the toughest bicycle race in the world, his second Race Across AMerica (RAAM) solo attempt, to clearly document why “You Need No Victory To Be A Winner.”

In recent years, RAAM success has come from a race plan that implements an extremely high tempo start with no rejuvenation until a comfortable lead has been established. This method, successful as it may be for some, for others, it provides nothing more than dramatic video footage of mortal survival. In other words, it’s safe to say that most racers aren’t capable of successfully implementing this type of extremely physical plan so an alternative plan must be formulated.

This was a crystal clear observation of Dr. Michael Nehls’ after his 2008 RAAM appearance and he was determined to take that experience to develop a more balanced race plan that would still place him in the thick of contention. Don’t get me wrong, Dr. Nehls did have a very respectable finish in 08 with more recovery/rest time than any other racer in the history of the event. Nevertheless, he still wasn’t convinced that he employed the correct balance of physical output, recovery and nutrition, so he felt it was time to give the plan another look, while at the same time remaining constantly mindful that an extremely fine line exists to stay within ones limits.

Dr. Michael Nehls 2010 RAAM - ©UltraRacePics

You will find no better explanation of the importance of planning the race, and racing the plan than in this film!!! Deviation that seems to deliver a positive outcome in the here and now can prove to be categorically disastrous in the end. Every decision that is made, good or bad must be able to withstand 3000 miles of scrutiny. With that said, you will be amazed at the precision in which Dr. Nehls and his crew confidently and consistently carry out their race plan. You must have the discipline to stay within your capacity, no matter how the race is unfolding. Even with the best possible plan, In the end, it’s up to the each racer to decide if it will be the racer himself, the race course, the weather, or the clock that becomes the ultimate victor.

Dr. Nehls himself gives you the first person narration of the video as he battles the topography, the weather, fatigue and the silent voices that persistently attempt to talk him off of his bike during his 2010 RAAM solo race. He and his crew struggle through all the difficult moments and in turn, enjoy the simple splendor of the awesome scenery and a good day on the bike. The film provides racers, support crews, family, and fans all valuable insight into what it takes to compete in what is arguably the most difficult bicycle race in the world.

The 98 minute movie, presented in both video and still photography captures some of the most beautiful landscape along the back roads of America that you’ll ever see, including a very creative helmet cam view of the start that is not normally seen. Kudos to the media crew!

Seek out and recognize your own personal success, because “You need no victory to be a winner.”

It is worth noting that Dr. Nehls himself narrates the entire film in English. Much of the dialog between Nehls and his crew are in their native German language which is presented in English subtitles.

This is a very good film that is deserving of a spot in your RAAM/Cycling video library.