Today was supposed to be ninety miles, but about 20 miles into the ride we found out that it was going to more like 100. Today we crossed into my home state of Missouri. We got a police escort out of Olather (they really did treat us great). Missouri has gotten quite the reputation for bad roads and rude people. Within the first 10 miles of getting into Missouri someone started threatening Ryan Dixon. This guy pulled into a quicktrip where we were having a crew stop, and our crew guy went over to him when he came out of the store and told him if he threatens the cyclists again, he was going to call the cops. The guy lost it and caused quite a scene cussing at us and yelling at us for using the roads and not paying taxes. One guy told us to kick his ass and that he didn’t understand “Share the road.” Needless to say, we didn’t start a fight.
Although the day got off to a bad start, the rest of the day was great. A storm was brewing most of the day, and we had a terrible headwind through some rolling hills, but for the most part we kept a great pace. Ryan Shippy’s dad—who is from Centerview Missouri—provided us lunch. It was some really good fresh fruit and sandwiches.
After lunch we still had over 30 miles left, so we got on the bike and cranked it out. The total for the day was 107 miles. When we got to lodging there was a messues ready to give messages, that one of our sponsors arranged. It was great. Dinner was also really good. We ate a prize winning hog from the Benton county fair for dinner. It was BBQed by a guy who does competitions, and it was the best BBQ of the trip. There were some people with disabilities there, and it was great to have a dinner with good company.
After dinner the team went to get ice cream. We went to a place called Spoons, and just like in Shoshoni WY we walked into the place an helped the deal with 28 straight orders. I learned to make concretes, and the girls working there didn’t really know what to do with themselves. It was pretty funny, and I walked away with some free ice cream for helping an a T-shirt. So far Missouri is out performing people’s expectations, and it’s nice to know my home state isn’t letting people down.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Day 39: Day off in Olathe
We woke up today for an 8:00 breakfast. Breakfast was cooked by some nice ladies from the Kansas School of the Deaf and some people from the city of Olathe. Today was jammed packed with friendship visits, and our first was at a place called Batheseda. This was a place with housing and complete supervision over the clients. Pretty much all of the people with disabilities we interacted with were very non-functional, so the friendship visit was tough. I am glad Ashley was able to come out and see what the Journey of Hope is all about.
Our second friendship visit was at a sheltered workshop. We all played BINGO for an hour or so. I played with a lady named Janice and also met a guy named Matt who was a huge chiefs fan. It was fun.
For our third friendship visit, we went to Mark Cameron’s house. Mark Cameron is on the Olathe board for people with disabilities, and is a quadriplegic. He is completely paralyzed from the neck down, and he invited us over to his house to see the equipment he uses to overcome his disability. It was really cool to see someone with a disability who has overcome so much adversary to be pretty much independent.
For dinner we went to Texas Roadhouse. It was delicious. Some of our guys even got to line dance a little bit. It was really fun.
Our second friendship visit was at a sheltered workshop. We all played BINGO for an hour or so. I played with a lady named Janice and also met a guy named Matt who was a huge chiefs fan. It was fun.
For our third friendship visit, we went to Mark Cameron’s house. Mark Cameron is on the Olathe board for people with disabilities, and is a quadriplegic. He is completely paralyzed from the neck down, and he invited us over to his house to see the equipment he uses to overcome his disability. It was really cool to see someone with a disability who has overcome so much adversary to be pretty much independent.
For dinner we went to Texas Roadhouse. It was delicious. Some of our guys even got to line dance a little bit. It was really fun.
Day 38: Topeka to Olathe
Today’s ride wasn’t too bad. We had a tail wind, and it was a bit shorter than expected. However, we did climb about 75 yards at 18% grade, and some pretty large hills. The idea that Kansas is flat is a complete myth. One of Stephen Sanger’s sponsors rode along today. He was probably the best ride along we’ve had so far.
We made a pit stop in Lawrence Kansas, and stopped by the KU Pi Kapp house. It was a lot of fun. When we got back in the bike, we pushed it to get to Olathe in time. We did a huge arrival at the Mahaffie Stagecoach farm and stop. My mom, Gina, and Ashley were there, so it was really great. The city of Olathe really rolled out the red carpet for us, and treated us great. We had lunch at arrival and then rode to lodging about a mile away.
We are staying ath the Kansas School for the Deaf for the next two nights. It’s awesome. We have our own beds, and two people to a shower. It’s as nice or nicer than a hotel room. For dinner we went to the Wulf’s house. They treated the team to a steak dinner. Tomorrow we have a few different friendship visits, and I already know Olathe will be one of the best stops of the trip.
We made a pit stop in Lawrence Kansas, and stopped by the KU Pi Kapp house. It was a lot of fun. When we got back in the bike, we pushed it to get to Olathe in time. We did a huge arrival at the Mahaffie Stagecoach farm and stop. My mom, Gina, and Ashley were there, so it was really great. The city of Olathe really rolled out the red carpet for us, and treated us great. We had lunch at arrival and then rode to lodging about a mile away.
We are staying ath the Kansas School for the Deaf for the next two nights. It’s awesome. We have our own beds, and two people to a shower. It’s as nice or nicer than a hotel room. For dinner we went to the Wulf’s house. They treated the team to a steak dinner. Tomorrow we have a few different friendship visits, and I already know Olathe will be one of the best stops of the trip.
Day 37: Witchita to Topeka
Today we left our cozy beds for Topeka. I was really well rested, and the ride was great. Frankly it was rather uneventful. We did and arrival at the Topeka ARC. There was media there, and we were on the news tonight.
We had to drive over to the local YMCA for showers. It wasn’t the most convienent thing ever, but we did what we had to do to get clean. When we got back there was a “block party” being put on by the ARC, aand we hung out there for a little bit. I met a guy named nate who was really excited to ride his mountain bike. I’m not sure what his disability was, but I think it was Autism.
After that I took a nap until dinner. We had dinner at the ARC, and then we jumped into the vans and went to a football game. It was the American Profesional Football League. Essentially it’s a minor league Arena Football league. Our team did the coin toss, and we stuck around for the first half of the game. It was entertaining, but it wasn’t edge of your seat fun so we didn’t stick around for the full game. By coincidence, the kid I had met earlier, Nate, was there, so we hung out with him a little bit, and he was really excited to see the team again. That was pretty cool. Tomorrow we head for Olathe, and I’m really excited.
We had to drive over to the local YMCA for showers. It wasn’t the most convienent thing ever, but we did what we had to do to get clean. When we got back there was a “block party” being put on by the ARC, aand we hung out there for a little bit. I met a guy named nate who was really excited to ride his mountain bike. I’m not sure what his disability was, but I think it was Autism.
After that I took a nap until dinner. We had dinner at the ARC, and then we jumped into the vans and went to a football game. It was the American Profesional Football League. Essentially it’s a minor league Arena Football league. Our team did the coin toss, and we stuck around for the first half of the game. It was entertaining, but it wasn’t edge of your seat fun so we didn’t stick around for the full game. By coincidence, the kid I had met earlier, Nate, was there, so we hung out with him a little bit, and he was really excited to see the team again. That was pretty cool. Tomorrow we head for Olathe, and I’m really excited.
Day 36: Day off in Wichita
Today we slept in until 8:15, and then went to the Artesinger’s house for breakfast. Their son is a KU alumni and did the Journey of Hope a couple of years ago. Breakfast was great, and we watched the tour de France live. It was awesome. I never thought I would get so excited by a bike race, but today’s stage had a great ending. The Columbia team won for the day, which was sweet.
Immediately after leaving the Artesinger’s we went to Rainbows United INC to have lunch and a friendship visit. Rainbows United INC’s motto is “Giving potential to life” and they work with children with all types of disabilities. When we got there, there was a camp going on and the camper’s in the choir put on a show for us. The sound system they were using was purchased with a grant the Journey of Hope team gave them which was awesome. The sound system allows the choir to travel, and yesterday they performed at city hall. That was really awesome.
I spent most of the day with a kid named Brandon. At lunch we had strawberry shortcake and spray whip cream. Our team started spraying it in our mouths, and soon we got the campers and administration doing it. It was great. After lunch we sang some songs, and sort of ran things for a bit. We presented Rainbows United with a grant, and loaded up the vans and left.
When we got back to the hotel, I was exhausted. I took a two hour nap to get ready for our friendship visit. The nap felt great, but when we arrived at the Indpendent Living Center, we found another friendship visit that wasn’t really a friendship visit. It was disappointing and awkward. After dinner we had a team meeting to discuss the upcoming week. I’m excited to see friends and family.
Immediately after leaving the Artesinger’s we went to Rainbows United INC to have lunch and a friendship visit. Rainbows United INC’s motto is “Giving potential to life” and they work with children with all types of disabilities. When we got there, there was a camp going on and the camper’s in the choir put on a show for us. The sound system they were using was purchased with a grant the Journey of Hope team gave them which was awesome. The sound system allows the choir to travel, and yesterday they performed at city hall. That was really awesome.
I spent most of the day with a kid named Brandon. At lunch we had strawberry shortcake and spray whip cream. Our team started spraying it in our mouths, and soon we got the campers and administration doing it. It was great. After lunch we sang some songs, and sort of ran things for a bit. We presented Rainbows United with a grant, and loaded up the vans and left.
When we got back to the hotel, I was exhausted. I took a two hour nap to get ready for our friendship visit. The nap felt great, but when we arrived at the Indpendent Living Center, we found another friendship visit that wasn’t really a friendship visit. It was disappointing and awkward. After dinner we had a team meeting to discuss the upcoming week. I’m excited to see friends and family.
Day 35: Pratt to Witchita
Today one of our crew guys, Alex Rosel, did a ride along. Although he struggled a little bit, he rode every mile, and it was really cool to see a crew guy ride 93 miles into his home town. We had another ride along for the first 17 miles. A guy named Dan saw us ride in and asked if he could ride with us. We explained what we were doing, and told him it was $100 a day for riding along (this is standard for people who haven’t done the trip before). By the end of the day he had fundraised $350 for the Journey of Hope, and we were thrilled to have him along with us. What was also really cool was that he had a disability, and did not have full functionality in his leg. Once again, it was great to focus on a person’s abilities rather than their disabilities. We had a cross wind or a head wind all day, and I can say for sure, that the team is looking forward to having a headwind when we turn north to Emporia in a few days.
For lunch we pulled over at mile 70 and our crew chiefs knocked on the door of someone’s house to see if we could use their driveway. The lady who owned the house was so impressed by what we were doing, she let us into her back yard for some shade picnic tables. She also provided us with fresh tomatoes from her garden for our lunch. It was awesome, and I was once again amazed by the friendliness of random people we’ve met along the way.
We did a very small arrival at the hotel we are staying at for the next two nights. It’s extremely nice to have our OWN beds for two nights, and we were thankful for the alumni who set it up.
For dinner we went to the CP ranch in El Dorado, KS, and had dinner and a friendship visit with the campers. Almost all the campers had Cerebral Palsy, and they were all between the ages of 6 and 21 so it was a lot of fun. After dinner we went swimming with the kids and it was a blast.
For lunch we pulled over at mile 70 and our crew chiefs knocked on the door of someone’s house to see if we could use their driveway. The lady who owned the house was so impressed by what we were doing, she let us into her back yard for some shade picnic tables. She also provided us with fresh tomatoes from her garden for our lunch. It was awesome, and I was once again amazed by the friendliness of random people we’ve met along the way.
We did a very small arrival at the hotel we are staying at for the next two nights. It’s extremely nice to have our OWN beds for two nights, and we were thankful for the alumni who set it up.
For dinner we went to the CP ranch in El Dorado, KS, and had dinner and a friendship visit with the campers. Almost all the campers had Cerebral Palsy, and they were all between the ages of 6 and 21 so it was a lot of fun. After dinner we went swimming with the kids and it was a blast.
Day 34: Dodge City to Pratt KS
Today we had a friendship visit with the Arrowhead group in Pratt for lunch. I had a great time. It was the first friendship visit so far when a woman asked me if I had a girlfriend. I do, but no matter what in that situation you always answer yes, because often times the follow up is will you be my boyfriend.
For dinner we went to an archery club outside of town. This was by far the best meal of the trip. We had smoked steaks and got to shoot archery. It was a great place to relax and enjoy a nice evening in the country. The people here in Kansas really are nice.
For dinner we went to an archery club outside of town. This was by far the best meal of the trip. We had smoked steaks and got to shoot archery. It was a great place to relax and enjoy a nice evening in the country. The people here in Kansas really are nice.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Day 33: Garden City to Dodge City
Today was only a fifty mile day, but it was the first humid day of the trip. I’m sure it is the first of many to come. We are staying at Dodge City Community College (DCCC), and we ate at the DCCC cafeteria today. It really brought me back to living in the dorms at Truman. Unfortunately we didn’t have time to shower before going to our friendship visit at 1:00, so I felt pretty dirt most the day.
Our friendship visit was at a place called Arrowhead, which was a sheltered workshop for people with disabilities. Most of them were highly functional, but had some sort of mental or developmental disability. I met the guy who was in charge of recruiting for the Special Olympics, and he was really proud about that job. I spent most the friendship visit running the miniature golf game, and I had a good time with it. To be honest though, I was really tired, and it wasn’t my finest performance at a friendship visit.
After the visit, we drove back to DCCC and jumped in the shower very quickly. It was nice being clean and not covered in a thin layer of salt from sweating all day. For dinner we headed over to Dan Wallace’s grandma’s house. It was a nice BBQ, and we were able to watch the two news stations’ stories on us. They were pretty good, but after the segment on one station the anchor made a joke about why anyone would go to Washington D.C. through Pratt KS (our destination for tomorrow).
Like I said, I’m exhausted, so while the rest of the team watches batman begins, I’m going to bed.
Our friendship visit was at a place called Arrowhead, which was a sheltered workshop for people with disabilities. Most of them were highly functional, but had some sort of mental or developmental disability. I met the guy who was in charge of recruiting for the Special Olympics, and he was really proud about that job. I spent most the friendship visit running the miniature golf game, and I had a good time with it. To be honest though, I was really tired, and it wasn’t my finest performance at a friendship visit.
After the visit, we drove back to DCCC and jumped in the shower very quickly. It was nice being clean and not covered in a thin layer of salt from sweating all day. For dinner we headed over to Dan Wallace’s grandma’s house. It was a nice BBQ, and we were able to watch the two news stations’ stories on us. They were pretty good, but after the segment on one station the anchor made a joke about why anyone would go to Washington D.C. through Pratt KS (our destination for tomorrow).
Like I said, I’m exhausted, so while the rest of the team watches batman begins, I’m going to bed.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Day 32: Lamar to Garden City
Today we headed to Kansas….and it was a 100 mile trip.
Overall, the cycling today was pretty good for a century day. We woke up at 5:00, but since we crossed over into central time, we lost an hour. Normally on our longer days we don’t have anywhere to be before dinner, but today we had an arrival at one of the largest pools in the nation at 3:00. The team pushed it all day, even though for about half of it we had a head wind, and the entire team made it without having to be racked. I was pretty impressed with the team as a whole. One interesting thing about Kansas is how many birds are on the road as roadkill. I would never have thought that birds would be dead on the side of the road, but we’ve seen everything from hawks to small birds.
After the arrival at the pool, we swam a bit and really enjoyed the water slides. Tonight we are staying at the nicest comfort inn in the nation. It’s like going to the best pi kapp chapter (that’s how many awards this place has). I’m looking forward to the continental breakfast tomorrow.
For dinner we went to Golden Corral. The dinner was sponsored by two alumni from the Kansas State pi kapp chapter. It’s really nice that alumni are continually sponsoring our meals, but to be honest, I’m ready to start having some more friendship visits.
Overall, the cycling today was pretty good for a century day. We woke up at 5:00, but since we crossed over into central time, we lost an hour. Normally on our longer days we don’t have anywhere to be before dinner, but today we had an arrival at one of the largest pools in the nation at 3:00. The team pushed it all day, even though for about half of it we had a head wind, and the entire team made it without having to be racked. I was pretty impressed with the team as a whole. One interesting thing about Kansas is how many birds are on the road as roadkill. I would never have thought that birds would be dead on the side of the road, but we’ve seen everything from hawks to small birds.
After the arrival at the pool, we swam a bit and really enjoyed the water slides. Tonight we are staying at the nicest comfort inn in the nation. It’s like going to the best pi kapp chapter (that’s how many awards this place has). I’m looking forward to the continental breakfast tomorrow.
For dinner we went to Golden Corral. The dinner was sponsored by two alumni from the Kansas State pi kapp chapter. It’s really nice that alumni are continually sponsoring our meals, but to be honest, I’m ready to start having some more friendship visits.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Day 31: La junta to Lamar
The team had grown quite attached to La Junta, and we were a bit sad to leave for Lamar. Especially after the great biscuits and gravy breakfast that was cooked for us by a few locals the team had met last year. This was a real treat too, because it was surprise, since they didn’t contact nationals they just saw us in the newspaper and decided to come by again and cook for us.
Today’s ride looked like it would be tough because of a strong headwind, but the team was in the groove, and we were able to crank out the 55 miles to Lamar in pretty good time. I went to lunch at sonic and a few of the guys who went with us had never been there before, so that was sort of cool.
For dinner we went to a lady’s house. She cooked us burritos and chile. It was pretty good. Afterwards we went to the local pool for some free night swim. It was fun, but a bit cold, so I left a little early so I could update this blog.
Today’s ride looked like it would be tough because of a strong headwind, but the team was in the groove, and we were able to crank out the 55 miles to Lamar in pretty good time. I went to lunch at sonic and a few of the guys who went with us had never been there before, so that was sort of cool.
For dinner we went to a lady’s house. She cooked us burritos and chile. It was pretty good. Afterwards we went to the local pool for some free night swim. It was fun, but a bit cold, so I left a little early so I could update this blog.
Day 30: Pueblo to La Junta
Since we had a short day (65 miles) Jay let us sleep in today until 7:00. It was great. After a delicious breakfast provided by none other than our crew chiefs Jesse, we started cycling towards La Junta. The ride was great, and we had a tailwind the entire day.
It has constantly amazed me this trip at how people will open up their homes or give of their time to make our trip a little more comfortable. Today was a rather hot day, and a disabled veteran saw us as we were riding by and invited us to her house (which was on the highway) for some shade and fresh fruit. It was really a great treat on the road.
Today we are staying in the first school gym for a while, and it’s not air conditioned. I might just be sleeping outside tonight provided it doesn’t rain. Our dinner was sponsored by the local lions club, and was another example of people giving of themselves so we can do this trip. It was actually pretty cool, because instead of just asking us to introduce ourselves, we also told them a favorite memory from the trip. I know the lions enjoyed it, and it was cool to hear all of the team’s favorite moments from the road or friendship visits.
Tonight, the guy who owns the local Laundromat, opened up his place for us to wash our laundry. That’s where I am now, getting me some internet and washing clothes.
It has constantly amazed me this trip at how people will open up their homes or give of their time to make our trip a little more comfortable. Today was a rather hot day, and a disabled veteran saw us as we were riding by and invited us to her house (which was on the highway) for some shade and fresh fruit. It was really a great treat on the road.
Today we are staying in the first school gym for a while, and it’s not air conditioned. I might just be sleeping outside tonight provided it doesn’t rain. Our dinner was sponsored by the local lions club, and was another example of people giving of themselves so we can do this trip. It was actually pretty cool, because instead of just asking us to introduce ourselves, we also told them a favorite memory from the trip. I know the lions enjoyed it, and it was cool to hear all of the team’s favorite moments from the road or friendship visits.
Tonight, the guy who owns the local Laundromat, opened up his place for us to wash our laundry. That’s where I am now, getting me some internet and washing clothes.
Day 29: Colorado Springs to Pueblo
Today we woke up to some very sad news. The mother of Carl Hiediman, one of our teammates lost her battle with cancer. He had already left the team, and we dedicated today’s ride to his mom. I hope everyone who is reading this will keep his family in your prayers.
After a great breakfast sponsored by Cameron’s parents we left Colorado College for Pueblo. Although we are still in Colorado, today’s scenery is much more like Kansas than the picturesque Colorado we had come to enjoy. Overall the ride was good, and we had a great time. I rode with Wulf and Jason today, and they were cracking me up the entire time.
Lunch was sponsored by the Pueblo Chamber of Commerce, and everyone got a little goodie bag with some buttons and pins from Pueblo. We ate at the Gold Dust Saloon and it was great. Our lodging was at the Guesthouse Inn, and at first I got thrown in a room without air conditioning, but we eventually got our room changed. It was fun.
For dinner we went to a place called Cinfully Delicious. This was another dinner that was supposed to be a friendship visit, but in the end was just the team eating. The food was great though, and the real tamales were awesome. After dinner we went down to the river walk on the Arkansas river, and then went to some local “establishments” for a little bit of relaxation before sleeping in our comfy beds for the night.
After a great breakfast sponsored by Cameron’s parents we left Colorado College for Pueblo. Although we are still in Colorado, today’s scenery is much more like Kansas than the picturesque Colorado we had come to enjoy. Overall the ride was good, and we had a great time. I rode with Wulf and Jason today, and they were cracking me up the entire time.
Lunch was sponsored by the Pueblo Chamber of Commerce, and everyone got a little goodie bag with some buttons and pins from Pueblo. We ate at the Gold Dust Saloon and it was great. Our lodging was at the Guesthouse Inn, and at first I got thrown in a room without air conditioning, but we eventually got our room changed. It was fun.
For dinner we went to a place called Cinfully Delicious. This was another dinner that was supposed to be a friendship visit, but in the end was just the team eating. The food was great though, and the real tamales were awesome. After dinner we went down to the river walk on the Arkansas river, and then went to some local “establishments” for a little bit of relaxation before sleeping in our comfy beds for the night.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Day 28: Denver to Colorado Springs
Today is the last day in the so called front range megalopolis. We were riding with a number of pi alphas (guys who have done a Summer event before) and some guys from KRG capital. One of the guys we rode with was Bruce Rogers, who in 1987 rode his bike by himself across the United States for Push America. His trip evolved into the Journey of Hope. Bruce is somewhat of a legend, and I was excited that he rode in my paceline.
The team had made this guy out to be a living god, but he was really cool, and a great guy to ride with. It was pretty awesome when he told me I had a good pull, and we were able to joke around with him all day and talk to him about the first time he cycled across the U.S.
There was a massive headwind today, and for the second time this Summer, we were not able to make it to arrival on time, so we racked the bikes to the Colorado Olympic Training Facility. Bruce said it was the strongest headwind he had seen in twenty years of riding with Journey of Hope teams. I’m not sure if he was serious or just trying to make us feel better, but either way, it was nice to hear.
We took a tour of the Olympic Training facility and had lunch there. It was really cool to see where some of the best athletes in the world train. At lunch I met a guy from Truman State who graduated in 2005 who was training for weightlifting. I was pretty surprised to see someone from Truman, but I think my team members were even more surprised and kept joking that I’m not really the only person who goes there.
After the tour we went to Colorado College where we are staying for the evening. The dean had us over dinner at his house and it was great. I met a guy who just got his masters degree at University of Alabama, and he had some good things to say about their graduate programs. He also recommended a restraint called City Café in Northport. I also talked to the dean about Truman State. Apparently he had been there before was familiar with Kirksville. Considering I haven’t met a single person this trip who had even heard of Truman, I was pretty excited to talk to two people about it today.
We have a 5:30 wake up tomorrow. It’s a half hour early than it was supposed to be because we were late getting out of lodging today. The team wasn’t very happy about this, but I guess it just means we’ll get to Pueblo a little faster tomorrow.
The team had made this guy out to be a living god, but he was really cool, and a great guy to ride with. It was pretty awesome when he told me I had a good pull, and we were able to joke around with him all day and talk to him about the first time he cycled across the U.S.
There was a massive headwind today, and for the second time this Summer, we were not able to make it to arrival on time, so we racked the bikes to the Colorado Olympic Training Facility. Bruce said it was the strongest headwind he had seen in twenty years of riding with Journey of Hope teams. I’m not sure if he was serious or just trying to make us feel better, but either way, it was nice to hear.
We took a tour of the Olympic Training facility and had lunch there. It was really cool to see where some of the best athletes in the world train. At lunch I met a guy from Truman State who graduated in 2005 who was training for weightlifting. I was pretty surprised to see someone from Truman, but I think my team members were even more surprised and kept joking that I’m not really the only person who goes there.
After the tour we went to Colorado College where we are staying for the evening. The dean had us over dinner at his house and it was great. I met a guy who just got his masters degree at University of Alabama, and he had some good things to say about their graduate programs. He also recommended a restraint called City Café in Northport. I also talked to the dean about Truman State. Apparently he had been there before was familiar with Kirksville. Considering I haven’t met a single person this trip who had even heard of Truman, I was pretty excited to talk to two people about it today.
We have a 5:30 wake up tomorrow. It’s a half hour early than it was supposed to be because we were late getting out of lodging today. The team wasn’t very happy about this, but I guess it just means we’ll get to Pueblo a little faster tomorrow.
Day 27: Day off in Denver
Since we have had nothing planned today, I slept until 11:00. After waking up I went with Andrew and Matt to go get some new sandals since my current sandals are hurting my feet. It was thrilling…
When we got back to the hotel Cameron’s Dad invited me to lunch at ESPN Zone. There were about 10 team members that went and it was great. Cameron’s mom really enjoyed meeting us and talking to us about the trip and where we were from.
The rest of the day really consisted of me sitting around. For dinner, a former Push America summer events member, and one of my teammates from Gear up Florida last year treated us to Chipotle. It was the second time in two days we had Chipotle, and it was great.
Before bed, I went down to the pool and used the hot tub and sauna. It was relaxing. The Simpson’s movie was on when I got back to my room, so I watched that until I fell asleep.
When we got back to the hotel Cameron’s Dad invited me to lunch at ESPN Zone. There were about 10 team members that went and it was great. Cameron’s mom really enjoyed meeting us and talking to us about the trip and where we were from.
The rest of the day really consisted of me sitting around. For dinner, a former Push America summer events member, and one of my teammates from Gear up Florida last year treated us to Chipotle. It was the second time in two days we had Chipotle, and it was great.
Before bed, I went down to the pool and used the hot tub and sauna. It was relaxing. The Simpson’s movie was on when I got back to my room, so I watched that until I fell asleep.
Day 26: Boulder to Denver
Today marked the third day of the easiest four days of the Summer. We cycled only about 32 miles to Invesco field at mile high where we were meeting the north team for the biggest arrival event outside of D.C. all Summer. There is somewhat of a friendly rivalry between the North and Trans AM team, and we all wanted to get there before the North team so we could cheer them into stage up. Let’s just say, the North team’s front paceline had looks of shock to see that all 28 of the trans am team members were cheering them on when they arrived at Invesco Fields.
Chipotle brought us all lunch, and we ate in the rain under an overpass. After lunch we staged up and took a police escort to Denver’s state capital. Since I swept today, Matt Sartin and I led the arrival. It was pretty cool to lead a paceline of over forty cyclist to the front of the capital and a bunch of cheering friends and family.
What made this arrival so big was the fact that Journey of Hope’s headlining sponsor, KRG Capital was there. We put on a good show and interacted with some of their executives before we headed to lodging. We are staying at the downtown Marriot in Denver, and the rooms were donated to Push America.
Tonight we went to a friendship visit called Pedal for pennies, where some special Olympic athletes did laps around the pond at City Park to raise money. We then had a dinner with both teams, the special Olympic athletes, KRG capital, and lots of friends and family. Dinner was great and I ate with one of the athletes named Emily. She was really thrilled to spend some time with college aged guys, and we had a blast. After dinner, we had a dance, and it was pretty awesome. My favorite friendship visits are the ones with dances, and I just got in there and made a fool of myself.
Overall the night was great, and between Push America and KRG capital we gave Special Olympics $7,500. We also all got free T-shirts! Since we have another day off tomorrow, most of the team is planning on going out and seeing what Denver has to offer.
Chipotle brought us all lunch, and we ate in the rain under an overpass. After lunch we staged up and took a police escort to Denver’s state capital. Since I swept today, Matt Sartin and I led the arrival. It was pretty cool to lead a paceline of over forty cyclist to the front of the capital and a bunch of cheering friends and family.
What made this arrival so big was the fact that Journey of Hope’s headlining sponsor, KRG Capital was there. We put on a good show and interacted with some of their executives before we headed to lodging. We are staying at the downtown Marriot in Denver, and the rooms were donated to Push America.
Tonight we went to a friendship visit called Pedal for pennies, where some special Olympic athletes did laps around the pond at City Park to raise money. We then had a dinner with both teams, the special Olympic athletes, KRG capital, and lots of friends and family. Dinner was great and I ate with one of the athletes named Emily. She was really thrilled to spend some time with college aged guys, and we had a blast. After dinner, we had a dance, and it was pretty awesome. My favorite friendship visits are the ones with dances, and I just got in there and made a fool of myself.
Overall the night was great, and between Push America and KRG capital we gave Special Olympics $7,500. We also all got free T-shirts! Since we have another day off tomorrow, most of the team is planning on going out and seeing what Denver has to offer.
Day 25: Day off in Boulder
Today was a pretty packed day for a day off. We woke up in the morning and had a sponsored breakfast at the Original Pancake House. The portions were huge, and the food was great. It was the first time I had ever had pumpkin pancakes, so that was pretty neat. The meal was sponsored by a guy who worked for Case Logic, which used to be a sponsor of the Journey of Hope.
After breakfast we went over to the local Conoco station to buy some tubes for floating down Boulder Creek. That was a huge mistake. Apparently, a damn had just been opened up to drain a reservoir a bit, and the creek was moving way too fast. It was scary as can be, and after almost drowning twice got the heck out of the coldest creek I had ever been into.
Most of the team just walked along the creek to Big City Burrito where we were having lunch. Lunch was sponsored by Josh, who rode the north route in 06. It was pretty good, but I was getting a little stressed out not having showered or anything all day, and I was happy to be able to go back to the Pi Kapp house and shower after lunch.
After showering, we had about two hours before a friendship visit. I just took a nap, but some of the guys went out and got hair cuts. The friendship visit was at a park outside of Boulder. We had another BBQ and played some beach volleyball with a couple of guys with developmental disabilities. It was fun.
At night, Matt, Dan, and I walked around Pearl Street and saw what local Boulder had to offer. Boulder has a reputation of being full of hippies, and Pearl Street was somewhat of a showcase for this. We did see a guy playing the didgeridoo and the drums. He was awesome.
After breakfast we went over to the local Conoco station to buy some tubes for floating down Boulder Creek. That was a huge mistake. Apparently, a damn had just been opened up to drain a reservoir a bit, and the creek was moving way too fast. It was scary as can be, and after almost drowning twice got the heck out of the coldest creek I had ever been into.
Most of the team just walked along the creek to Big City Burrito where we were having lunch. Lunch was sponsored by Josh, who rode the north route in 06. It was pretty good, but I was getting a little stressed out not having showered or anything all day, and I was happy to be able to go back to the Pi Kapp house and shower after lunch.
After showering, we had about two hours before a friendship visit. I just took a nap, but some of the guys went out and got hair cuts. The friendship visit was at a park outside of Boulder. We had another BBQ and played some beach volleyball with a couple of guys with developmental disabilities. It was fun.
At night, Matt, Dan, and I walked around Pearl Street and saw what local Boulder had to offer. Boulder has a reputation of being full of hippies, and Pearl Street was somewhat of a showcase for this. We did see a guy playing the didgeridoo and the drums. He was awesome.
Day 24: Ft. Collins to Boulder
Today we rode 45 miles or so from Ft. Collins to Boulder. Ft. Collins is the beginning of the so called the front range megalopolis. For this reason I expected a rather annoying city ride, but it was actually really nice. We were all really shocked to see the extreme amount of cyclists all around boulder. Apparently cycling is the boulder thing to do.
We cycled through the University of Boulder campus and staged up at their football stadium. The team got really excited when the red bull girls walked by, and we were able to get free red bull. We rolled over to the frat house and showered. Ryan, Dom, Josh, and I walked to Jimmy Johns for lunch.
After showering/lunch we went to the Presbyterian Church in boulder where we would be spending the next two nights. There was a washer and dryer where we were staying so I quickly threw all of my laundry into the machine. We soon left for our friendship visit at the east boulder recreation center.
We had a friendship visit with Boulder’s quad rugby team, the Denver harlequins. Quad rugby, or murderball, is played by people who are quadriplegics, and at first each player introduced themselves and told us how they got their neck injuries. It was a real eye opener to hear how some of the guys became injured. One guy was riding a mechanical bull and broke his neck. That could happen to anyone.
Everyone on the journey of hope was given the chance to get into one of the specially designed wheelchairs and give the sport a try. It was pretty awesome to run a wheel chair into people and try to score. After everyone was given a chance to play, the best five guys on the team—I was one of them—played a real game against the Denver harlequins. It was pretty cool, but they kicked our butts.
This was also the first time I’ve ever met any Olympians. Two of the guys we played with are on the USA quad rugby team and will be going to Beijing in September for the Paralympics. In most countries, the Paralympics are a real big deal, but the U.S. is one of the only countries that doesn’t even broadcast it. There is definitely a need for people to understand the abilities of people with disabilities.
Another eye opening experience for me at this friendship visit was the fact that when I finished playing I could just unstrap myself from the wheelchair and get up and walk around. This really his home the idea of empathy, and really understanding what living with a disability is like. It’s great to be able to experience what it is like to have a disability, and understand people’s abilities, but the people living with these disabilities can’t just turn them off after an event.
For dinner, most of the team went to the pi kapp house at CU and had a BBQ. It was a lot of fun, and a good way to relax.
We cycled through the University of Boulder campus and staged up at their football stadium. The team got really excited when the red bull girls walked by, and we were able to get free red bull. We rolled over to the frat house and showered. Ryan, Dom, Josh, and I walked to Jimmy Johns for lunch.
After showering/lunch we went to the Presbyterian Church in boulder where we would be spending the next two nights. There was a washer and dryer where we were staying so I quickly threw all of my laundry into the machine. We soon left for our friendship visit at the east boulder recreation center.
We had a friendship visit with Boulder’s quad rugby team, the Denver harlequins. Quad rugby, or murderball, is played by people who are quadriplegics, and at first each player introduced themselves and told us how they got their neck injuries. It was a real eye opener to hear how some of the guys became injured. One guy was riding a mechanical bull and broke his neck. That could happen to anyone.
Everyone on the journey of hope was given the chance to get into one of the specially designed wheelchairs and give the sport a try. It was pretty awesome to run a wheel chair into people and try to score. After everyone was given a chance to play, the best five guys on the team—I was one of them—played a real game against the Denver harlequins. It was pretty cool, but they kicked our butts.
This was also the first time I’ve ever met any Olympians. Two of the guys we played with are on the USA quad rugby team and will be going to Beijing in September for the Paralympics. In most countries, the Paralympics are a real big deal, but the U.S. is one of the only countries that doesn’t even broadcast it. There is definitely a need for people to understand the abilities of people with disabilities.
Another eye opening experience for me at this friendship visit was the fact that when I finished playing I could just unstrap myself from the wheelchair and get up and walk around. This really his home the idea of empathy, and really understanding what living with a disability is like. It’s great to be able to experience what it is like to have a disability, and understand people’s abilities, but the people living with these disabilities can’t just turn them off after an event.
For dinner, most of the team went to the pi kapp house at CU and had a BBQ. It was a lot of fun, and a good way to relax.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Day 23: Cheyenne to Ft. Collins
Happy Fourth of July! Everyone morning we wake up to a music mix put together by our project manager Jay. Today, we listened to some patriotic music and everyone was ready to leave Wyoming and get to civilization again.
At the border we all stopped at the Welcome to Colorado sign and got our picture taken. The fourth paceline showed up with smoke bombs going off as they rolled up to the sign. It was awesome, and it really got the team excited about the ride. The tail wind we got was also a nice change of pace.
At one of the crew stops we had brownies and watermelon that was left over from last night’s friendship visit. It was America at its finest. The ride ended up being about 60 miles (10 more than we were originally told), but the team was in some of the best spirits in weeks. We arrived at the Colorado State Pi Kapp chapter house, and had lunch.
Mike Wilbourne form nationals was there and will be with us for the next few days. I guess we’ll have to really follow our policies and procedures strictly for the next few days. (Good thing we got the fireworks out of our system early this morning) We are staying at a catholic church with internet access, and I am looking forward to fireworks tonight.
On another note, I got chain grease all over my jersey today. I guess it won’t be completely stain free when I roll into Kansas City and St. Louis.
At the border we all stopped at the Welcome to Colorado sign and got our picture taken. The fourth paceline showed up with smoke bombs going off as they rolled up to the sign. It was awesome, and it really got the team excited about the ride. The tail wind we got was also a nice change of pace.
At one of the crew stops we had brownies and watermelon that was left over from last night’s friendship visit. It was America at its finest. The ride ended up being about 60 miles (10 more than we were originally told), but the team was in some of the best spirits in weeks. We arrived at the Colorado State Pi Kapp chapter house, and had lunch.
Mike Wilbourne form nationals was there and will be with us for the next few days. I guess we’ll have to really follow our policies and procedures strictly for the next few days. (Good thing we got the fireworks out of our system early this morning) We are staying at a catholic church with internet access, and I am looking forward to fireworks tonight.
On another note, I got chain grease all over my jersey today. I guess it won’t be completely stain free when I roll into Kansas City and St. Louis.
Day 22: Wheatland to Cheyenne
The team woke up at 4:13 today since one of our guys was late for curfew the other day. It's a team accountability thing, but it was the worst. On top of that the cycling was terrible today because of a very strong head wind. We had a sponsored lunch by the cattlewomen (the best sponsored meals), so we had to be in Cheyenne by 12:00.
However, with a pace of 8-10 miles per hour, we did not make it so we racked the last twenty miles into town. Everyone was rather thankful in reality considering yesterday’s long ride and the early wake up.
The lunch form the women of cattle was great. We went out to a historic ranch and ate out there. I really enjoyed myself, and the food. We then went back to lodging, and I took a much needed nap.
For dinner we had a friendship visit at Lion’s park with the local arc. I met a guy from St. Louis with down syndrome and I had fun talking to him about the cardinals. I also got to interact with some of the parents who were there, and it was good to know that pretty much everyone there had a great support system. We also handed out a grant for the ARC to buy a new PA system. Once again, thanks to all of my sponsors for making that possible.
After dinner we headed back to lodging. I’m there right now, and I’m ready for bed. Tomorrow we’re going to Ft. Collins, and I’m ready to see some fireworks.
However, with a pace of 8-10 miles per hour, we did not make it so we racked the last twenty miles into town. Everyone was rather thankful in reality considering yesterday’s long ride and the early wake up.
The lunch form the women of cattle was great. We went out to a historic ranch and ate out there. I really enjoyed myself, and the food. We then went back to lodging, and I took a much needed nap.
For dinner we had a friendship visit at Lion’s park with the local arc. I met a guy from St. Louis with down syndrome and I had fun talking to him about the cardinals. I also got to interact with some of the parents who were there, and it was good to know that pretty much everyone there had a great support system. We also handed out a grant for the ARC to buy a new PA system. Once again, thanks to all of my sponsors for making that possible.
After dinner we headed back to lodging. I’m there right now, and I’m ready for bed. Tomorrow we’re going to Ft. Collins, and I’m ready to see some fireworks.
Day 21: Casper to Wheatland
this journal entry is the one I wrote for the team's official blog. Check it out here: http://www.pushamerica.org/events/te_journal.cfm?ridecode=JOH&route=Trans
Today we left Wyoming’s beautiful metropolis of Casper to cycle 120 miles to Wheatland. The first half of the day was really great. We had an blue sky, and the temperature was decent. About half way through the day though, the team started feeling such a long day and the rising sun.
Attitudes were high though, and our crew made sure to keep us hydrated. It was very important for us to drink lots of water because of the dry heat and long day of cycling. Around 10 miles out of Wheatland we had to rack through construction and wait out a passing thunderstorm. After a little while the clouds passed and we were clear to continue. Once again, the crew did a great job keeping us safe.
We rolled into our lodging at Wheatland Middle School, to find that the day was only 117 miles. I’d like to give a big thanks to our project manager, Jay, for finding a shorter route.
We made it to our destination in time for our sponsored dinner by the Wyoming Cattlewomen's Association. They provided us with beef, shredded potatoes, fruits and veggies, and a delicious chocolate cake for desert! It was just what we needed after a hard day on the bike, so thanks again for a great meal!
Well, I’m beat, and I’m heading to bed before the sun sets.
Today we left Wyoming’s beautiful metropolis of Casper to cycle 120 miles to Wheatland. The first half of the day was really great. We had an blue sky, and the temperature was decent. About half way through the day though, the team started feeling such a long day and the rising sun.
Attitudes were high though, and our crew made sure to keep us hydrated. It was very important for us to drink lots of water because of the dry heat and long day of cycling. Around 10 miles out of Wheatland we had to rack through construction and wait out a passing thunderstorm. After a little while the clouds passed and we were clear to continue. Once again, the crew did a great job keeping us safe.
We rolled into our lodging at Wheatland Middle School, to find that the day was only 117 miles. I’d like to give a big thanks to our project manager, Jay, for finding a shorter route.
We made it to our destination in time for our sponsored dinner by the Wyoming Cattlewomen's Association. They provided us with beef, shredded potatoes, fruits and veggies, and a delicious chocolate cake for desert! It was just what we needed after a hard day on the bike, so thanks again for a great meal!
Well, I’m beat, and I’m heading to bed before the sun sets.
Day 20: Day off in Casper
The team slept in until 10:00 today, which was great and well needed. We had a Kid on the block presentation at a boy and girls club, but I stayed back to watch the bikes and our stuff since we could not lock the room we were staying in. I picked a good event to miss. Apparently half the kids had pink eye, and for lunch the team got a hot pocket and a thing of milk. Let’s just say cyclists eat more than ten year olds.
To remedy the situation our fearless leader Jay drove us to McDonalds, told us to wait in the car, and then walked in and gave the Push America pitch. He came out the conquering hero and told us that we could have either a quarter pounder meal or a two cheeseburger meal for free. It was pretty great.
After that most the team did laundry, or went on bike shop runs. I rested at the school a little more before our friendship visit. When we rolled up, no one was there, and I expected another scheduled friendship visit that turned out to not be a friendship visit. I was wrong though, and got to spend a good amount of time with a young girl named Lisa. Lisa was developmentally disabled and very shy. I got her to come out of her shell though, when we went on the swings at the park we were out. She wiped me out on those swings. If I had a way to send her a trophy for best swinger, I would.
To remedy the situation our fearless leader Jay drove us to McDonalds, told us to wait in the car, and then walked in and gave the Push America pitch. He came out the conquering hero and told us that we could have either a quarter pounder meal or a two cheeseburger meal for free. It was pretty great.
After that most the team did laundry, or went on bike shop runs. I rested at the school a little more before our friendship visit. When we rolled up, no one was there, and I expected another scheduled friendship visit that turned out to not be a friendship visit. I was wrong though, and got to spend a good amount of time with a young girl named Lisa. Lisa was developmentally disabled and very shy. I got her to come out of her shell though, when we went on the swings at the park we were out. She wiped me out on those swings. If I had a way to send her a trophy for best swinger, I would.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Day 19: Shoshoni to Casper
It’s no wonder Wymoning is the least populated state. Today’s 100 mile ride was probably the most boring of the trip so far. Wyoming is pretty much just a large desert after you get past the mountains in the West. The roads were great though, so we were able to double pace line in the road’s shoulder and talk to each other to kill the time while riding.
We averaged about 20 miles per hour on the bike today, and overall it was a great ride for 100 miles. I welcome tomorrow’s day off though.
Our dinner at the Poor Boy’s Steak house was sponsored by the Kiwanis club. Although it was not a friendship visit, we talked a lot about the communities we had rode through with the members of the Kiwanis club that came to the meeting. We all have been shocked at how nice the schools we’ve stayed in and showered in are (Jay’s dad who was with us, and is the principle of Kirkwood High School was even impressed), and we found out why. Apparently Wymoing has a ton of natural gas and a good amount of oil, so that funds all of their schools.
Pretty much the entire team went to go see Wall-E tonight. It was pretty good, and I’m glad I saw it!
We averaged about 20 miles per hour on the bike today, and overall it was a great ride for 100 miles. I welcome tomorrow’s day off though.
Our dinner at the Poor Boy’s Steak house was sponsored by the Kiwanis club. Although it was not a friendship visit, we talked a lot about the communities we had rode through with the members of the Kiwanis club that came to the meeting. We all have been shocked at how nice the schools we’ve stayed in and showered in are (Jay’s dad who was with us, and is the principle of Kirkwood High School was even impressed), and we found out why. Apparently Wymoing has a ton of natural gas and a good amount of oil, so that funds all of their schools.
Pretty much the entire team went to go see Wall-E tonight. It was pretty good, and I’m glad I saw it!
Day 18: Dubouis to Shoshoni
Today we were scheduled for a mere 80 miles, but it turned out to be almost 100. The ride was really great, and we paced at about an average of 20 mph. It was mostly rolling hills, with a lot of downhills in the morning.
I think today we encountered the most mechanical problems of the trip. Two guys had their tires blows out (Josh was able to fix his), and Dan Wallace had some early problems with his brakes that I was able to help him fix.
We ate lunch on the road at a giant pavilion for farming equipment. We had tortillas, lunch meat and salad all wrapped up. It was surprisingly good, and kept us going for the last 25 miles. We rolled into Shoshone around 3:00, and found a very economically depressed town. It just seems like the next generation completely moved out.
We are staying at the local senior center, and some ladies were nice enough to come and cook us dinner. It was the first dinner that was well rounded (we had potatoes, chicken, broccoli, rolls, etc). It was great, and then we went out for some ice cream.
On another note, the Texas 4,000 is also staying in Shoshone tonight. They ride about 4,000 miles from Austin, TX to Alaska to raise money for cancer. It’s just another example of people combining a great pastime for a truly worthy cause.
I think today we encountered the most mechanical problems of the trip. Two guys had their tires blows out (Josh was able to fix his), and Dan Wallace had some early problems with his brakes that I was able to help him fix.
We ate lunch on the road at a giant pavilion for farming equipment. We had tortillas, lunch meat and salad all wrapped up. It was surprisingly good, and kept us going for the last 25 miles. We rolled into Shoshone around 3:00, and found a very economically depressed town. It just seems like the next generation completely moved out.
We are staying at the local senior center, and some ladies were nice enough to come and cook us dinner. It was the first dinner that was well rounded (we had potatoes, chicken, broccoli, rolls, etc). It was great, and then we went out for some ice cream.
On another note, the Texas 4,000 is also staying in Shoshone tonight. They ride about 4,000 miles from Austin, TX to Alaska to raise money for cancer. It’s just another example of people combining a great pastime for a truly worthy cause.
Day 17: Jackson to Dubouis
We woke up today and had the best breakfast of the trip from the eta gamma pi alphas (if I haven’t already mentioned it, Pi Alpha is a distinction given to those who have done a Push America Team event). They had already started drinking and their wives were showing up later. We wished we could spend another day there, but it was on to Dubouis WY.
We racked back to Jackson, and started riding in Grand Teton national park. It was great to ride through such a beautiful place. We had a head wind virtually all day so the front guy in our pace line pulled for only about 2-3 minutes before falling to the back of the line.
We hit some construction we had to rack through because the crews were blasting. We racked about 5 miles up a pass, so we were pretty happy about that, but before we got to the top of the pass we climbed to over 9,000 feet. The downhill was great though, and I hit at top speed of 42 mph. Somewhere going up the pass a person stopped and asked what we were doing, and the donated $100. It’s really great to be spreading awareness and raising more money for people with disabilities even though we have not had many friendship visits.
Once we arrived in Dubouis we rode to the middle school and showered up. In our free time before dinner I walked to the local drug store to get some toiletries and a milk shake, and I took about an hour nap. It was refreshing and I woke up to the smell of our dinner. Dinner tonight was provided by the Cattlewomen once again, and we were able to talk to them for a while after dinner about the ranching business. It was rather interesting.
We racked back to Jackson, and started riding in Grand Teton national park. It was great to ride through such a beautiful place. We had a head wind virtually all day so the front guy in our pace line pulled for only about 2-3 minutes before falling to the back of the line.
We hit some construction we had to rack through because the crews were blasting. We racked about 5 miles up a pass, so we were pretty happy about that, but before we got to the top of the pass we climbed to over 9,000 feet. The downhill was great though, and I hit at top speed of 42 mph. Somewhere going up the pass a person stopped and asked what we were doing, and the donated $100. It’s really great to be spreading awareness and raising more money for people with disabilities even though we have not had many friendship visits.
Once we arrived in Dubouis we rode to the middle school and showered up. In our free time before dinner I walked to the local drug store to get some toiletries and a milk shake, and I took about an hour nap. It was refreshing and I woke up to the smell of our dinner. Dinner tonight was provided by the Cattlewomen once again, and we were able to talk to them for a while after dinner about the ranching business. It was rather interesting.
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