Sean Bergstrom, Chris Schneider, Matt Shorrock and their crew are Team Murphy and they participated in the 2007 Race Across America (RAAM), the longest running ultra-distance bicycle racing competition in the world.

All three are NROTC scholarship students at Villanova University who are officer candidates pursuing Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training (BUD/S). They trained and raced in honor of a fallen former SEAL, Lieutenant Michael Murphy of Patchogue, Long Island, a recipient of the Purple Heart and Silver Star.

They attempted this grueling test to raise money for the Naval Special Warfare Foundationin honor of Lt. Murphy. This non-profit organization provides educational and motivational support, promotes health and welfare programs for the Naval Special Warfare Community plus perpetuates the history and heritage of the U.S. Naval Commandos. The money that was donated helps the families of fallen Navy SEALS.

Matt (left in photo above) injured his shoulder while training for RAMM and needed an operation which prevented him from competing. So on June 12, Sean (right in photo) and Chris (center) began cycling in Oceanside, California along with 200 other participants, many of who were also participating in RAAM for various charities.

Team Murphy planned and executed their strategy of maintaining the delicate balance of managing pain, sleep and nutrition for the “around-the-clock” day and night riding journey.

Unfortunately, as temperatures rose well above 100 degrees in the deserts between Arizona and Utah, Chris started to fall into dehydration. Despite the best efforts of the crew, he eventually was hospitalized, which disqualified Team Murphy from the race. A team meeting was held and the decision was made to continue crossing the United States with Sean biking the roads mapped by RAAM that he was legally allowed to cycle on as non-participants in the race. Sean and the crew continued the journey to the Atlantic for the next ten days. On June 22, Team Murphy reached Atlantic City, New Jersey, exhausted but in high spirits. Chris had since recovered and was released from the hospital in Arizona.

With your help, Team Murphy was able to raise a total of $16,520, which will be used for supporting the families and children of fallen Navy SEALS. Thanks very much for your support!