Air Force Cycling Team rides in HHH Published Sept. 1, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Thirty-five members of the Air Force Cycling Team visited Sheppard Aug. 29 for the fifth consecutive year participate in the Hotter N' Hell Hundred, the largest annual international bicycle race. The Air Force Cycling Team is made up of cyclists from various Air Force bases that come together to ride in races throughout the country. Tech. Sgt. Larry Gallo, leader of the team from Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, said this was the largest turnout the team has had for the Hotter N' Hell bike race. It has become a tradition because other members were sharing their experiences with their teammates, causing a larger attendance each year. He said the team's main goal is to recruit and promote fitness in the Air Force. "When people see fit and trim members representing the Air Force together with their jerseys, they get curious and start asking questions," the team leader said. "We all carry the Air Force image, to be part of the team you have to be in shape...because when you get all of us together we stand out." Sergeant Gallo also said the team chose to ride the 100-mile course for exposure to more people and the opportunity to share the Air Force mission. Col. Mike Buck, a member of the team out of Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, said the team participates in most races to have an Air Force presence. The cycling team is also "known for helping people out" when other riders have flat tires and other issues. He said this is his first time riding in the HHH race and was looking forward to coming together with the team to ride in such a demanding race. "We're going to ride hard," he said. "I like the challenge." He said the team not only enjoys participating in HHH for the race, but they also enjoy the hospitality Sheppard has continued to provide throughout the years.