I saw that Death Valley cup. Looks INsane! Chapeau to your buddy.

Are you aiming for PBP???

Good idea on RUSA. I also planned to join UMCA - just have not gotten around to it. I wanted to do our brevet series, but the constant rain turned me off. Also tough with the 10 year old. (Though the idea of shipping her off to bed and riding all night has some appeal).