For a long time now I have wanted to ride my bike across the country, and now I’m going to do it. Even better, I’m going to do it along with my son Chad. On May 7 we will dip our wheels in the Pacific Ocean at Manhattan Beach, California and ride east. 48 days later we dip into the Atlantic at Revere Beach, Massachusetts. In between we pass through 4 time zones and 13 states.
We’ll be riding with Crossroads Cycling Adventures (https://bigdreambiketours.com/cross-country-bike-tour-sea-to-shining-sea-tour-across-the-usa/), who have been doing this for years. The riding days average about 85 miles, with 5 rest days along the way. We’ll cross the Mojave desert, spend a week in the cornfields of Kansas, and brush up against Lake Erie on our way to Boston. No camping on this trip; it will be all hotels with beds, showers, and air conditioning.
Why? I was inspired by a patient, Ray. In addition to starting Chad’s Boy Scout troop, Ray attempted this crossing in his 70s, camping the whole way. Ray was a great guy who enjoyed sleeping on the ground much more than I do.
Why now? Chad graduated from the University of Oregon last year and my other son, David, will graduate from USC next May. Now that Covid is not such an issue I have my best chance.
Why ride with Chad? Why not?! Several months ago I casually said, “You could come along.” A few days later he asked whether I was serious, and here we are.
So we’ve been training and anticipating. Ten days from now we drive to Los Angeles, catch an Angels game, and head to Moreno Valley.
16 responses to “Day -12: Anticipation”
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What an exciting adventure! Safe travels.
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Your GPC family are pulling for you.
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It’s great to have the support
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Hey guys, looks like fun, have a great time!!
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Thanks George. We can bore you all about it at the family reunion.
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Hi Gentlemen,
I am Dean McCarrick and I rode this tour last year. It was the greatest experience of my life and wish I was with you again this year. I met people that will be my friends and brothers (and sisters) until I die. I wish you beautiful weather and strong tail winds!
Peyton, ( your bike mechanic) is the nicest young man that you will ever meet! I look forward to following your blog!
Good luck and have fun!
Dean McCarrick
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Good Luck to you and Chad. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure!
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Thanks Jeanette
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I am so excited for you and Chad, Spencer. What a great adventure and how wonderful to be in shape to be able to do it. Wave to me in Ohio. Love you, PJ
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I’m glad you’re following along
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Live webcam on the Manhattan Beach pier for friends and family to watch your departure for points East. https://hdontap.com/index.php/video/stream/manhattan-beach-pier-north
I’ll be on the pier cheering you on.LikeLike
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Amazing and jealous!
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Countiss 2023 USA Tour 
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