Whew… this is a big country. We’ve pedaled almost 1,000 miles already and we haven’t even crossed two states yet. Today was an easy 65-miler from Pocatello to Twin Falls. We were up early and on the road by 7:30 to take advantage of the cool, still air. We zipped through the first half, did one SAG stop, and then zipped through the second half. We cruised mainly through agricultural terrain with some very pretty small towns scattered along the way. On Sunday morning, the only traffic was people going to church. The only excitement was provided by several dogs that decided to chase after us. Even they were lazy – they’d chase the first rider and then lie in the shade and bark half-heartedly.
With the help of the National MS Society, I’m getting more press coverage for our fund-raising efforts. Yesterday, the Idaho State Journal — the daily paper of Pocatello — had a very nice article about me and the trip. You can read it at: http://bit.ly/mxizT5
This would be a great trip to play Roadkill Bingo on. You pick seven animals and the first player to spot five dead on the road is the winner. So far, I’ve seen deer, fox, coyote, raccoon, snakes (several), skunks (saw a few, smelled more), bobcat, and what may have been a possum. Suellen actually has a business idea centered around roadkill. She thinks there’s enough roadkill in Colorado that she can collect specimens, have them stuffed, and then sell them to middle schools and high schools for their science projects. I’ll put her in touch with Science Mary.
I want to give a special shout out to my buddies, Johnny G. and Jill, 11-year-old twins (almost 12) from Castle Rock, Colorado. Johnny G. and Jill have a big map and are following our progress across the country. They also sent me a tin of very special, very tasty home-made brownies. They were so good that I didn’t share them with anybody (except Suellen, of course). Special note to Johnny G. — Brush up on your chess skills. Learn the Ruy Lopez opening. I’m ready to play.
Late breaking news – there was a little more excitement than I knew about today. One of our Dans (we have four Dans on the trip) took a tumble after bumping wheels with another rider in a pack. Fortunately, it was mainly road rash and Dan was able to ride the rest of the way.
Day’s distance: 66.1 miles (106.4 km)
Average speed: 16.3 mph (26.2 kph)
Day’s climb: 760 feet (231.6 meters)
Total distance: 996.8 miles (1,604.2 km)
Hi Travis,
Happy 4th of July. Grandson and I went skiing yesterday at A Basin and on the way back stopped for ice cream in Empire at the Dairy King (maybe you know the place). Anyway I talked with a group of bicyclists who were riding around CO for a week. They met on last year’s ride across the country that you are now on and remain great friends. He had nothing but great things to say about the ride and wished you all the best. Small world!! Continued safe travels.
Johnny G says: Ha! I’ll be beating you in chess! So better learn more moves, buddy. Jill says: Glad you enjoyed the brownies. Shannon says: tell us the address of your next day off and you may be a goodie bag!
Love Roadkill Bingo – can we play?