Funds Raised as of August 12th = $11,470
Big Ride Group Total = $259,647.34

Days after the trip (Posted 8-12):

Getting back to the daily routine is easy.  The work schedule for this week and scheduled conference calls filled up fast as I catch up on my projects.  I'm still unpacking has I clean up the tent and other camping equipment to store for future trips.  What a great experience has I reminisce on the 48 days of the Big Ride.  It never really hit me that I actually rode my bike across the United States of America.  I think I am finally realizing what an adventure I accomplished.  I want to thank all my sponsors for the $11,000+ raised which was awesome and thank all that supported me at home and from aboard.  Thanks for reading.

Day 48 Clarksburg MD to Washington DC

(50 miles)

Well it is time to wrap this trip up.  The route into DC was beautiful.  Hard to imagine that these roads and country exist only miles outside our capital.  As we approached DC we joined the same trail that we rode on outside of Pittsburgh.  The trail was heavy with walkers, runners and other cyclist.  We had lunch at a Greek food stand in the old post office compliments of a former Big Ride.  Thanks, the food was great.  At noon we took off in threes to the Lincoln Memorial to find our waiting families.  See group pic.  The journey is over.  What an adventure.

Day 47 Gettysburg PA to Clarksburg MD

(50 miles)

Short day today.  It was nice getting a hotel room on our rest day yesterday because there was a major thunderstorm that hit in the afternoon.  Today was mostly uneventful.  We just took our time on the beautiful roads of PA and Maryland.  See photo of Maryland state line.  We are in a woodsy campground for our last night.  The campground reminds us of our first night in Easton, WA.  The group is quiet maybe because the ride is rapping up tomorrow.  Forty seven days as past by fast.  It was a great great ride and I thank my family and Sodexo for giving me this opportunity.  Some individuals asked if I would do a ride like this again.  My response was, “yes, in a heart beat”.  We will be finishing up at the Lincoln Memorial and then back home to the family and getting on the soccer fields. 

Now that I completed a marathon, rode across America, I think I will work on hiking the Appalachian Trail.  Variety is the spice of life. 

Day 45 Bedford PA to Gettysburg PA

(102 miles)

Well, I guess I passed the Final Exam.  We woke up @ 4:30 am to a thunder storm however it passed through the area so we were able to break camp without rain.  The air was dense with humidity and as the day went on the sun burned it off.  Hills, hills and more hills.  With yesterdays climb over Mt Davis, the legs were slow in the morning.  The roads were phenomenal following the PA Bike Route S for the majority of the day (photo).   We climbed 5,000 ft in 51 miles to Cowan’s State Park where we had lunch (photos).  After mile 60 the road flattened out going into the Cumberland Valley and with a tail wind the miles went well.  Stopped at the water stop in Chambersburg PA to quickly fill up the water bottles and was back on the route to finish the last 25 miles.  We turned onto Rt. 30 outside Chambersburg and after getting over the ridge it was a sweet sailing into Gettysburg.  This is where the Appalachian Trail crosses (photo).  With the tail wind and the 4-6% downhill grade I was coasting @ 25 mph.  With some pedal strokes 30+ mph was easy to maintain.  At the Gettysburg city limits I slammed on my brakes as I almost went right by the Appalachian Brewing Company.  Made a “U” turn and had a beer and appetizer to finish off a great day.

Thursday is a rest day in Gettysburg.  I decided to get a hotel room instead of camping over the rest day.  Planning on getting caught up on work prior to officially being back in the office on Monday. 

PS – PPRAC committee, there is some great riding in the South West corner of PA.

Day 44 Confluence PA to Bedford PA

(74 miles)

Today we had the option to take the Rails-to-Trails for 31 miles or do some climbing over Mt. Davis which is the highest point in Pennsylvania.  Which route do you think I selected after yesterday’s ride?  Obviously the road option.  Not to mention that I have not rode this part of PA.  There were 16% and 19% grades for short periods.  The first 7 miles we climbed 1,000 ft.  By mile 13.5 we had climbed 2,000 ft and by the time we met up with the other riders coming off the trail we climbed 3,000 ft at mile 26.  See photos of the team Mt. Davis and the Mt Davis sign all shot up.  The boys in this area sure know how to have fun.  We had the best down hills of the trip to hit record speeds however with some rain drops and cross winds I didn’t let it loose.  The top speed in the group was 54 mph…sweet.  At mile 55 Team Mt Davis stopped for a water break as I continued.  We had breakfast in Meyersdale PA (photos).    Two miles before the campground I stopped at a restaurant for three hours.  I ordered some food and beer when Joe stopped.  Then Doug and Jim joined us.  Next Catie, Letty, Rachel, Bruce, Chad, Greg and Clifford appeared and before you know it we had polished off several beers.  That’s why it took three hours.  It was a great day.  I love PA and the PA hills.  One of the best days of the Big Ride.  Tomorrow is 100 miles into Gettysburg with some nice climbs.  They call it the Final Exam.  After tomorrow there are two short days into DC and we have completed the Big Ride Across America.  It will be great to get back home and plan the next trip.  Just kidding MJ. 

Day 43 Washington PA to Confluence PA

(88 miles)

It was cold when we broke morning camp.  I wore arm warmers to start the day.  The traffic was heavy with rush hour traffic.  We went through Washington PA and Eighty-Four PA.  Finally the route took us off the busy roads into Mingo Creek Park (photos).  This park reminded me of Pine Creek North of Williamsport PA.  In the park there was a covered bridge (photo).  We had some nice climbs after New Eagle PA and Monogahela PA.  I notice that the one climb was a 15% grade.  At mile 36 we jumped on the Youghiogheny River Trail (YRT).  The trail is a Rails-to-Trails passage which goes from Washington DC to Pittsburgh PA (photos).  Also see http://www.atatrail.org.  There were locals putting up a sign for a Labor Day run.  They have asked us for a photo at the West Newtown train station for the local newspaper (photo).  It was nice to get off the road at first but after 5 miles of limestone package trail, I had enough with 120 lb pressure tires.  The butt was hurting because the terrain didn’t change and since there were rocks all you could do is focus on the trail.  After I finished the day I noticed several small cuts on my tires that I didn’t have before.  Some riders ran into a Diamondback Rattle Snake on the trail.  A 2000 Big Ride provided lunch at mile 61 with hoagies, sodas and fruit.  

I had some mechanical issues with the bike today.  It felt odd turning corners.  It was taking a straight line.  I had Nick (Big Ride Mechanic) look at my headset.  It most likely happened when the bike crashed at camp when the storm came through in Burton OH.  My left brake was also bent.  You could feel it sticking when you turned the headset.  Nick took it apart and cleaned the parts.  Clean the chain so I’m all good for the climbs tomorrow.

Day 42 Waterford OH to Washington PA

(61 miles, 3 hours 49 minutes, 16.0 mph, 47.2 max speed, 3694 calories burned, 4400 ft climbed, 4400 ft climbed)

Welcome to Pennsylvania.  The hills were many and the descents were awesome.  Today was another short day so we slept in until 7 am.  We broke camp and received our cue sheets @ 8 am (photo).  Off to the hills we went.  The hills were easier due to the nice roads. We were shooting for breakfast at mile 26 in Midland.  We had two great descents.  Did I saw great?  I meant to saw awesome, phenomenal, fantastic and lets do it again if there was a chair left to the top.  The second one I thought I was going to take flight.  With a sweeping left turn towards the bottom I came off my aero bars and applied some air brakes.  The road became rough as we approached the bottom (photo).  I realized that that was the PA state line.  After looking at the cue sheet I realized that I missed the state line.  I climbed back up the hill .4 to snap a picture just to find a Beaver County sign (photo).  We I returned to the bottom of the hill, Mark (ALAW support) noted that the Welcome to PA sign was ½ mile off route (photo).  Had breakfast in Midland at a small café (see inside and outside photo).  After breakfast Rachel, Catie and Letty’s bike wheels were tied together, just another prank on the Big Ride.  See photo and notice the tires tied with white plastic however just under you will see the plastic zip ties.  So the idea was that they removed the white plastic they were free if they didn’t see the zip ties.  There was a large scrap metal factory which I’m sure is a major employer in the area (photo).  After Midland we rode next to a nuclear power plant on the Ohio River (see photo of bridge).  I made a ½ of PB&J and got back on the road at mile 45 in the cemetery (photo).  Then a lunch stop in Burgettstown.  Wasn’t really hungry however there is always room in the furnace for sweet potato fries.  Off we went to finish the last 13 miles into Whispering Pines Campground.  Great day, glad to be on my home turf.

Day 41 Burton OH to Waterford OH

(61 miles, 3 hours 38 minutes, 16.8 mph, 36.9 max speed, 3352 calories burned, 3125 ft climbed)

MJ drove me to camp in the morning to start the day.  I was glad I stayed at the hotel because the camp had a thunderstorm in the evening.  Very laid back day due to the short mileage.  We rode with many Amish horse and buggies this morning.  At mile 26 there was a working steel mill (photos).  We are now in steel country.  There I was riding with Rosie when she blew her back tire (photo).  Darryl came by and had a spare tire to get Rosie back on the road.  I arrived in camp early, had a couple of beers per Doctor DeNunzio and took a shower.  When Doug went to take a shower a couple of riders placed a picnic tablet inside his tent (photo).  They later set the table. 

Most don’t know that I have an extended bike family.  I have a lizard, bug and frog riding on my bike (photos).  Janet found a fish at the campground which I also placed on my helmet.  Janet knew that I was looking for a Walleye since MN.  This will work for now.  My bug and insect family watch over me on the road.

Connie & Allen are picking me up tonight to go out to dinner.  Connie asked where I wanted to go, i.e. – family restaurant, Italian, etc.  I’m only concerned about the dress code.  I’m OK with any restaurant where underwear is not required.  That part of the body needs to air.

Another short day tomorrow.  We will be getting a later short because everyone was in too early. 

Day 40 Rest Day in Burton OH

MJ, Ryan, Rachele and the Breckenridge’s drove to Ohio to pick me up.  We went to Cedar Point amusement park.  Everyone had a great time.  The gang went on 12 of the 17 roller coasters.  We left the park @ 9:30 pm and didn’t arrive at the hotel until 11:30 pm.  Packed my gear and crashed after midnight.  See photos.  Rachele is a nut when it comes to some crazy make me sick to my stomach rides.  She can handle any ride in the park.

Day 39 Sandusky OH to Burton OH

(95 miles, 6 hours 6 minutes, 15.6 mph, 35.6 max speed, 4465 ft climbed)

I’m writing this journal entry on Sunday and day 39 was on Thursday.  MJ and the family picked me up at the campground and we went to the hotel.  Went swimming at the hotel with the kids and then crashed.  Still no time on Friday due to being at Cedar Point all day.

The first half of the day was flat.  Mostly rode by myself until we reached Cleveland.  I was off route and asked for directions.  We went through the center of Cleveland which was a little rough.  Traffic, rough roads conditions and missed cues made it a longer day. 

Day 38 Napoleon OH to Sandusky OH

(88 miles, 5 hours 3 minutes, 17.5 mph, 32.6 max speed, 5159 calories burned, 1260 ft climbed)

Today was a cruising day.  I was riding with Brendon the first 25 miles to Bowling Green at a casual pace.  In Bowling Green a group stopped at Panera Bread for a second breakfast.  A breakfast sandwich, wild blueberry scone, OJ and coffee set me up for the rest of the day.  At mile 30 we made a left turn onto Greensburg Pike where we experience an awesome tail wind.  The group started truck-in @ 20 plus mph.  This pace went strong for 30 miles on nice country roads with no traffic.  There are not many times that we experience these conditions so we went for the ride.  After all, we have seen corn for the past 600 miles (corn photo).  So we put our heads down and went for it.  This reminders me of when I told Pastor Paul last November that I was thinking about riding cross country.  Paul said “I hope you like corn”.  And he was more then correct.  Lots of corn! 

Today was all about the tail wind.  See the American Flag picture with the wind blowing this huge flag.  It was sweet!!!   At the lunch stop the group I was riding with dropped me while I was making a PB&J to go.  This is the second time today Brendon tried to drop me.  I dropped to my aero bars and started pumping.  I was at 26 mph when I passed the first pace line.  I had a head of steam on so I went after Brendon.  I found Ed and Austin in the first group on my heels in short order.  I caught Brendon and stuck on his wheel to catch my breath.  Then I went after the second group with Doug, Dwayne & company.  The group stayed together several miles after that point switching the lead position.  See three photos of the group of today’s line up including an upside down pic.

Lets back up to last night.  We camped at the County Fairgrounds where we had access to a building.  Many of the riders where working on their blogs, see internet café photo. 

At mile 76 the group stopped for ice cream and others ordered food.  At the stop I took a pic of Stephanie’s riding shoes which are Converse low tops (photo).  Imagine riding 3300 miles in these sneakers. 

Thursday is 92 miles to Burton Ohio where MJ, Ryan, Rachele and the Breckenridge’s will be picking me up.  Friday is a rest day so we are going to ride all the roller coaster’s at Cedar Point amusement park.

Day 37 Kendallville IN to Napoleon OH

(70 miles, 4 hours 22 minutes, 16 mph, 29.0 max speed, 3470 calories burned, 1239 ft climbed)

We broke camp this morning in the dark since we are now on the Western side of the Eastern Time zone.  The same crew that made dinner for us last night also made breakfast.  They were up early preparing pancakes, sausage and eggs.  Good eats!!! 

Since it was only 70 miles we took it slow today.  Not as much corn today however plenty of soybean.  No worries, I still have posted a corn pic.  We were on country roads today and off the busy highways.  At mile 26 we crossed into Ohio (photo).  I took a picture of myself with Indiana in the background (photo).  The yellow line on the road is the state line.  At mile 40 Brendon and I had breakfast #2 Bryan Ohio.  As we approached a family restaurant that a mail carrier recommended, we past the courthouse (photo).  Many of the roads that we rode in Ohio were narrow country roads and well paved.  Barely fit two cars.  The corn on the side made it a nice ride.

I have been featuring a “Once Upon a Time” photo.  Today is a barn that I’m sure was once a storage area for farm equipment or animals. 

Day 36 Valpariso IN to Kendallville IN

(110 miles)

Today was ice cream day.  The 110 miles went very well.  I felt after Friday’s ride with the rough roads in Indiana that it would be a long day.  Actually the first 50 miles the roads were very nice.  In fact they were some of the best roads on the Big Ride.  The second half was no so good.  In fact when the roads in Indiana are rough, they are very rough. 

At mile 40 we found the first sunflower field.  Not a very large field but beautiful (photo).  Later we found some stuff animals that came to life.  We stop at the fence and the llamas and sheep came running to greet us.  At the water stop I stop in the corn field to do my business and while I was there I took some pics.  You must know now that I love corn.  At this stop there was a plane and a guy on a unicycle holding an American flag.

At 61 miles in Wakarusa we stopped for a sandwich and I had ice cream.  Butter pecan, my favorite.  I was long over due for lunch.  Soon after lunch there was a family that had a rest stop with large heart shape cookies, milk and water (photo).  We then rode through Amish country (photo).  The horse farms were majestic and the working horse’s awesome (photo).  At mile 97 there was a water stop and there just so happens to be an ice cream shop.  In Wolcotsville @ Humpty’s Dumpty’s I had a sundae with ALL the toppings.  That was mile 97 so the next 13 miles my blood sugar was fantastic.  

It was a long day with 6 ½ hours in the saddle.  We are now in Eastern time zone so we also lost an hour on the day.  We are camping at the local park which has a lake on 500 acres.  The Park Service had a picnic for the riders and the Mayor of Kendallville was there to greet us and thank us for our accomplishments.  Tomorrow is a short day, 70 miles.

MJ, Ryan and Rachele will be driving to Burton Ohio on Thursday.  Can’t wait to see the family.  We will be going to Cedar Point amusement park on Friday, our rest day.

Day 35 Valparaiso Rest Day

All pictures are posted from previous days.  Thanks for reading.

Day 34 Coal City IL to Valparaiso IN

(88 miles, 5 hours 36 minutes, 15.8 mph, 28.7 max speed, 4703 calories burned, 3091 ft climbed)

Last night was very warm.  It never cooled down so we started with a hot a sticky body.  It felt like I just returned from an afternoon ride.  We had a traditional camp breakfast (photos) however I had my own stock.  Back in New Ulm I had purchased some Bare Naked Granola.  I was waiting to ensure that the milk was safe.  The previous ride leader was not very careful with the food.  Sharon, our new ride leader has the food iced down around the clock.  We headed out of camp and through Coal City IL. 

This would be our last ride in IL, the last day of the seven day stretch and also crossing the Indiana state line.  We had a little tail wind at times as the road twisted through the country.  Around 15 miles we found the Gemini Giant (photo).  They grow them big in IL.  At mile 48 we crossed into Indiana (photo).  Not a warm welcome like the previous states.  No sign so one of the riders or support crew spray caulked a line on the road.  From this point on the road became rough.  Indiana now tops all states for the roughest roads.  If you didn’t have saddle sores entering IN, you will have them before you leave.  I would like to use some choice words but I know young adults are reading.  Believe me, there were words mentioned on the road by all riders.  On top of the rough roads most of the roads didn’t have an inch of shoulder.

At mile 52 there was a water stop at Reichert’s Tavern.  Only opened on Saturday and the sign indicates sandwiches but they didn’t have any food.  Owner said that is was an old sign.  The bar felt like a biker bar with the photos of ladies on the bulletin board.  There was a Captain Morgan in the back.  You will need to see the pictures on the photo page.  For the rest of the day it was fighting the traffic and roads and attempting not to crash or have a conflict with a car.  Once, Jim and I went into the grass to let a truck pass.  Did I mention that the roads were also very narrow?  They were. 

Tonight and Sunday night we are staying in a dorm at the Valpariso University.  The rooms have air conditioning.  Tomorrow, Sunday is a rest day.  I need to clean the bike and my chain is in great need of service.  Talk to you on Monday.  Mileage is 110.

Day 33 Belvidere IL to Coal City IL

(102.3 miles, 6 hours 30 minutes, 15.7 mph, 26.8 max speed, 5345 calories burned, 2566 ft climbed)

I had mentioned mosquitoes the past couple of days.  I think it is the state insect.  See photo of world’s largest mosquito. 

CORN, CORN, CORN AND MORE CORN.  Corn on both sides of the road.  Tall corn and short corn.  Most of the corn is tall enough that you can’t see over it.  Of the 100 miles of today’s ride, 80 miles we were riding next to corn fields.  50 of those miles there was corn on both sides of the road.  So I thought you would like some corn facts.

Here are some web sites.

http://www.ncga.com/03world/main/index.html

http://www.iowacorn.org/cornuse/cornuse_2.html

Corn Math:

à    An ear of corn averages 800 kernels in 16 rows.

à    A pound of corn consists of approximately 1,300 kernels.

à    100 bushels of corn produces approximately 7,280,00 kernels.

à    Each year, a single US farmer provides food and fiber for 129 people – 97 in the US and 32 overseas.

à    In the US, corn production measures more than 2 times that of any other crop.

à    Over 55% of Iowa’s corn goes to foreign markets.  The rest is used in other parts of the US.

Other Corn Facts:

à    Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and Minnesota account for over 50 percent of the corn grown in the U.S. Other major corn growing states are Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Kentucky.

à    Corn is produced on every continent of the world with the exception of Antarctica.

à    The area known as the "Pacific Rim" region (in Asia) is emerging as the world's fastest growing market for U.S. corn. There, most of the corn is fed to livestock to produce food for humans. The majority of the world's population is located in the Pacific Rim region.

Back to today.  The roads the first half of the ride was very rough.  We were happy that the traffic was light.  Where are the tail winds?  At 29 miles we had breakfast again and continued to Newark IL.  At 66 miles we turned on 4650^th Street.  Street numbers in the thousands?  I understand it is the greater Chicago grid.  In Newark we stopped at a traditional blacksmith shop (photos).  The building is from 1800’s which was originally was also a blacksmith.  A couple blocks away we had lunch.  A lunch to take me the next 50 miles however we only had 25 left.  Open face hot turkey sandwich with two mounds of mashed potatoes topped with gravy and peas.  I went back for a second portion of mashed potatoes and gravy.  GOOD EATS! 

After lunch Joe found a country draft (photo).  Find the green jersey behind the hay trailer in the photo.  A water stop by the corn field provided a great picture (photo).  The second half of the ride the roads were much better.  We were able to increase our speed without much effort.  We went from 14.8 mph at 50 miles to 15.7 mph at 100 miles.  A good day for the third century in a row.

I didn’t mention that our ride leader was removed from the Big Ride and Sharon from the ALAW is now our ride leader.  I am writing this on the tail gate of the truck drinking some red wine.  Pasta for dinner.  Can’t get any better.  I will be looking forward having a couple of beers with any one who wants to here about the Big Ride.

Day 32 Madison WI to Belvidere IL

(97 miles, 6 hours 36 minutes, 14.7 mph, 30.8 max speed, 5079 calories burned, 4705 ft climbed)

The camp last night was very nice adjacent to a lake (photos) however the mosquitoes were awful.  If you didn’t have bug spray you were eaten alive.  No trains running blowing the whistle however we were in the flight path of a major airport.  Once we ate dinner everyone retreated to their tents.

On our way out of camp there were four birds that we looking for food (photo).  Our bird expert on the trip said they were Sand Hill Cranes.  Total miles today was actually a century however my Garmin quit at mile 97.  Nice ride today however the legs were a little slow.  Roads in WI are rough and so far was my vote for the roughest state.  We went out 20 miles and stopped for breakfast in Evansville WI.  The country roads had there ups and downs.  Signs in WI are different (photo).  For the majority of the day we had a head wind.  In Orfordville WI a Big Rider from 2007 had a great stop supplied with donuts, coffee, fruit and homemade “to go” tortillas stuffed with p-nut butter, bananas, raisins and honey.  What a sugar boost.  We arrived at the Illinois state line to take some pictures.  See Simon making his entrance into IL. 

Had one not so fun experience when a bee flew under my helmet and was stinging me in the forehead.  In my attempt to remove the bee my glasses took a tumble on the road and in my failed attempt I hit the brakes.  It was my right side so I was using my right hand to remove the bee when I applied the brake with my left hand which is the front brake.  I applied to hard and went over the left side of my handle bars.  Bike in the ditch as I picked myself off the road.  No worries, it was a soft fall.  Body and most importantly the bike is OK.  No road rash on the body but the bike did suffer so scratches.  Garmin, Oakley’s and Olympus camera also still working but my banana was smashed. 

While in IL we found some cows playing king of the hill (photo).  Too funny!  Never saw cows on top of a small hill.  We made it to Capron IL for some lunch at The Stumble Inn which was really just a bar.  Mark (support crew) came into the bar and noted that the cue sheet was incorrect.  We waited to get the correct directions and finished the last 21 miles. 

Staying at very nice campground called Outdoor World which provided a spaghetti dinner.  Tomorrow is another 100+ day.   Talk with you soon.

Day 31 Viroqua WI to Madison WI

(110 miles, 7 hours 30 minutes, 15.1 mph, 36.0 max speed, 5581 calories burned,  4500 ft climbed)

Today was a long day in the saddle.  110 miles to Madison with some rough roads and heavy traffic.  The first 37 miles however were scenic dotted with dairy farms.  I took lots of photos during this section.  It was one Kodak moment after the next.  At 37 we entered Richland Center WI where I had my second breakfast.  We then proceeded onto Rt. 14 which had heavy traffic but a nice shoulder.  After the half way point of the trip my legs were not turning.  I fell behind Brendon and Steve and in the next town they were waiting for me at a gas station.  I had some sugar, salt, fat and caffeine in different formats and continued.  Right after the gas station break we exited Rt. 14 and continued on back roads which we better however the road conditions in some areas were hard on the saddle.  Came into camp completed drained.  Needed to drink and eat and in a ½ hour I was feeling better.

I was surprised to see a care package from the Freed family.  Bob and Kathy, thanks for the goodies.  Could not have come at a better time with no stores in the area.  I will enjoy.  Thanks

Tonight we are in a remote camp which is beautiful however full of mosquitoes.  Most everyone is in there tent savings their skin.  That is all for now.  Need to upload pictures and call it a night.  Tomorrow’s mileage is 90+ and Friday is another century.  Most likely I will make Thursday a century and do three in a row.  I will see how I feel.

Thanks for reading.

Day 30 Winona MN to Viroqua WI

(67 miles, 4 hours 35 minutes, 14.8 mph, 43.6 max speed, 3887 calories burned, 4270 ft climbed )

Today are route followed the Mississippi River on the MN side for 18 miles.  We were then routed into Dakota MN where a family for the past several rides hosted a rest stop.  Not just your typical stop.  Tent setup with wonderful home made treats.  The flowers on the photo page are from their garden.  They had pictures of each rider that we signed.  We all signed a guest book where we added comments.  Photo albums of other past riders cluttered the tables.  The hospitality was unbelievable.  Thanks so much.  In the same town of Dakota was the bath tub (photo).

After the great break we continued on a bike path heading to the Wisconsin state line.  We crossed the mighty Mississippi River into WI and headed into LaCrosse where LaCrosse brewing company is located.  Home of the world’s largest six pack (photo).  You can see the other three in the back.  After getting through LaCrosse we had a nice stretch along the WI side of the Mississippi to Stoddard WI.  From this point to Viroqua the terrain became very familiar.  Before I get into the terrain I need to note that there were no corn fields up to this point which is mile 50.  Well the terrain is just like PA.  We had an 8-9% climb for 1-1/2 miles.  Then down and right back up.  How many times can you go up and down in 16 miles?  Just like PA.  I was riding with Brendon and noted that it was just like home.  The only thing missing is the dogs and as I spoke there were two little dogs with 4” legs tracking us down.  Too funny!!!  Had a couple of nice descents that were curvy and lots of fun.  I bet you’re wondering about the corn.  Of course there was corn and lots of it.  In fact I have pic on the photo page.  I wouldn’t let you down.  This is also Amish county.  Several homes with working horses and buggies parked outside the barn. 

Viroqua is a small nice town.  We are camping at the Vernon County Fairgrounds.  Tomorrow will be a tough day going to Madison WI.  That’s all for now.  Thanks for reading.

Day 29 Owatonna MN to Winona MN

(89 miles, 5 hours 15 minutes, 16.9 mph, 34.5 max speed, 4826 calories burned, 2341 ft climbed)

Today was heavy traffic day with rough roads.  For the majority of the day we followed Rt. 14.  For 35 miles it was a four lane divided highway.  The traffic was fast and shoulder rough.  Couldn’t do much but ride because I needed to concentrate on the traffic and road for my own safety.  We then came off Rt. 14 and @ mile 45 four Big Riders, from 2007 setup a rest stop with cookies, donuts, coffee and fruit.  Two of the 2007 riders Liz and Anne live in Rochester MN.  Thanks 2007 Big Riders for a wonderful stop.

We then proceed into Rochester and went past the Mayo Clinic where Sodexo provides the food services.  In Rochester a group of riders stopped for some protein at a local restaurant.  The breakfast burritos were the best.

We returned to Rt. 14 through Rochester where Reuben flatted.   See photo.  We returned to the road and some riders marked the 2,000 mile point of the trip.  We stopped for a Kodak moment.

Stockton MN was a water stop/check point.  There was a BP gas station on the corner and a kid on a bike said the van was 2 blocks away.  We proceeded to check in with Nick.  As we were talking and filling up our water bottles we looked at the cue sheet and noticed a left turn on Rt. 23.  The little boy on the bike was also at the water stop and he said that Rt. 23 was back at the BP station.  We missed the turn so we went back to return to the route.  Route 23 was the most scenic road of the day.  A nice valley with a nice road surface and no traffic.  It was short lived when we turned onto Rt. 61.  When we came into town Doug and I stopped at the Ground Round restaurant for a sandwich and since we were only 2 miles from our destination we had a couple of beers.  Jim back tracked and joined us.  We learned from the bartender that Lourdes Hall on the Winona State campus was one of the most haunted buildings in the Midwest.  The bartender told the story like you can read on http://www.unexplainedresearch.com/media/legends_and_myths_of_winona.html.

 Tomorrow is a short day however we will be crossing the Mississippi River and crossing the state line into Wisconsin.  Yes, another state down.  Six states to go. 

Day 28 New Ulm MN to Owatonna MN

(73 miles, 4 hours 35 minutes, 15.9 mph, 35.3 max speed, 3801 calories burned, 1981 ft climbed)

Today we woke up with fog for the second day.  Not much to see with all the fog.  It didn’t burn off until 10 am.  Again for the most part the scenery was corn and soy bean fields.  Of course I have a picture of corn fields on my photo page.  I’m sure there will be more.

We need to redo the Trek Madone’s floating on the corn picture.  See pics to New Ulm.  We will be prepared the next time because our cleats we filled with dirt.  So I have store bags so we can cover our shoes the next time we enter a corn field.  Dwayne, Doug and I will be doing the shot on a short day.  Continue to check the photo page.

Day 26 Tyler MN to New Ulm MN

(87 miles, 5 hours 16 minutes, 16.6 mph, 27.8 max speed, 4645 calories burned, 1837 ft climbed)

This morning started with fog and very wet tents.  We broke camp and headed for the road.  Guess what the scenery was today?  Can you say corn fields?  The corn is taller the South Dakota so it is easy to hide behind to do your business.  See photo of corn fields with dirt road.  Stopped to do my business and the group I was riding with continued.  I busted to catch and in my journey picked up two riders on my wheel.  We caught the poise and past them.  The train ended at the water stop/check point in Tracy MN.  We had breakfast at the Red Roost.  Plate size pancakes took me through lunch. 

I think I had “Green Out”.  It is similar to “White Out” in a snow storm.  “Green Out” is seeing to much corn.  So Doug and I needed to have some fun so we jumped into a corn field and held our bikes over our heads so that the bikes were floating on top of the corn.  See photo page.  Next we stop at the DQ to load up on some sugar for the next 20 miles.  Tomorrow we have a rest day in New Ulm which is a very nice German town.

We are staying at Martin Luther College.  No laundry facilities so I packed my dirty clothes and headed downtown with Doug and Brendon.  While the washer was on we had a beer at the local bar.  The locals at the bar were asking us questions about our adventures across America and also were buying us beers.  It was a good time especially when I asked what Turkey Gizzards were.  There was a jar on the back bar pickled.  The bartender didn’t answer but proceeded to get a plate and cut one up.  The local next to me said not to get them close to her.  They looked terrible.  The bartender placed the plate in front of Doug and I and ate a piece.  You know what they say, when in Roman do what the Romans do.  So I had a piece and it was very good.  Then a sales person came in from the local brewing company called Schell’s, the second oldest brewing company in America.  Guess where I’m going on my rest day tomorrow?

Day 25 De Smet SD to Tyler MN

(74 miles, 4 hours 45 minutes, 15.7 mph, 33.7 max speed, 3888 calories burned, 2071 ft climbed)

Before I tell you about today we need to talk about last night.  The sky is clear however www.weather.com indicated an 80% chance of thunderstorms in the evening.  Still @ 7 pm the skies were clear and calm.  I feel a sleep in my tent and woke up when it was getting dark.  A local officer pulled up to camp and let us know that there was a storm about 70 miles West with 70 mph winds.  He said he would watch the storm and stop by to warn us to take shelter.  In preparation I packed 90% of my gear so my items won’t get wet.  What are the chances, we were the 20%.  Only a couple of drops fell. 

My alarm went off at 5 am and I woke up to the sound of thunder.  I quickly packed and loaded my gear on the truck before it rained.  The Catholic Church had breakfast ready for us at 6 am.  We rode to breakfast and while we were eating the skies opened up.  Raining like cats and dogs.  Many riders were caught in the rain and needed to wait it out to break down their tents.  The storm passed and just a couple of drops falling so we started on our journey.

Breakfast we thin at best so we planned on stopping in Brookings SD for food.  We stopped in Arlington SD for a snack to get us to the 41 mile mark.  The drizzle was fine, in fact it was nice not to have the sun beating on you and sucking out the energy.  The challenging part were the semi’s and double semi’s throwing mist and wind at your face.  Most of us were coated with dirt.  More fields of corn, soybean and wheat.  See photo page.  Started to see some lakes as we get closer to Minnesota.  In Brookings SD we had lunch at a Perkins.  Rain had stopped some we shedder the rain jackets.  The sun peered through has we reached the MN state line.  In this area MN is dotted with dozens of wind mills to generate power.   We rode miles and miles and continued to see wind mills sticking up through the corn fields and soybean fields.  We reached Lake Benton which is known for Walleye.  We stopped at the gas station/convenience store to get some soft server ice cream and decided on a root beer float.  Good eats!!!  I asked the five guys sitting at the table playing Yatzee how is the fishing.  They indicated that they had to toss back several large Walleye over 20”.  I asked why and apparently the law states that you can only keep one Walleye over 20”.  The caught a bunch over 20”. 

The last seven miles into Tyler went quick.  Must have been the root beer float.  Hope your enjoying the pictures.  I will continue to put some pics up from past days. 

Thanks again for your support.

Day 24 Miller SD to De Smet SD

(78 miles, 5 hours 2 minutes, 15.6 mph, 26.3 max speed, 4089 calories burned, 1368 ft climbing)

TODAY WAS THE HALF WAY POINT WHEN WE REACHED HURON SD.  We marked the road and took a couple of pictures.  At the check point/water stop was a road label Midway Ave.  How appropriate.  78 miles of farm land.  No sunflowers today, more corn, wheat and soybean.  In Huron SD you could smell the wheat.  It was wheat or someone was brewing beer. 

Today started with a nice tail wind so we knocked down 10 miles in short order.  We then experienced a cross wind and eventually a head wind.  The last 26 miles was a gradual uphill into the wind.  There were five of us that worked together to draft and converse energy. 

I’m starting to get some pictures uploaded on the Photos page.  Continue to check and thank you for your support.

Day 23 Pierre SD to Miller SD

(74 miles, 4 hours 47 minutes, 15.5 mph, 26.5 max speed, 3870 calories burned, 1502 ft climbing)

Legs slow today because of the hard day yesterday.  You can see from the data above that the area is mostly flat.  Max speed is low because there are no hills and the number of feet we climbed also low.  My “high knee” is yelling at me because we are on the saddle all day.  Moderate head winds today required a drafting to get in before the temp started rising.

Today was 73 miles of farm land.  Approx. 40% wheat, 40% sunflowers and 20% corn.  In Highmore SD we spoke with the local farmer and he indicated that the sunflowers will be transported to North Dakota to produce oil.  Lunch was long since we only had 22 miles left for the day.  Just before town Jim, Brendon and I climbed a stack of hay bales.  These are not your average hay bale.  The farmer said that each bale was 1,000 lbs. and about 12 ft in diameter.  There were staked in a pyramid with four on the bottom, then three and two on the top.  We climbed to the top to get a pic.  Tomorrow is 80+ miles with the same terrain and I’m sure more crops. 

Day 22 Kadota SD to Pierre SD

(100 miles…data for 75 miles = 4 hours 18 minutes, 17.4 mph, 32.8 max speed, 3889 calories burned, 3810 climbing)

Today was 95 miles on the cue sheet however I needed to do the 5 extra miles and make it a century.  I rode 3 miles before breakfast looking for a post office so I completed 3 or the 5 bonus miles.  Felt great today and went out on my own.  The legs were just knocking down the miles one after the other.  The first 20 miles I was back and forth with other riders.  Towards the end of the first 20 miles I was on my own until Ed caught me at the end.  We had a water stop so I checked in, purchased some Gatorade for the bottles and drank a carton of chocolate milk.  The next 8 miles I was on my own.  The lunch van was setup in Midland SD so I made a PB&J to go and used the out house.  Went with Liz until the next water stop when I ate my PB&J, purchase a bag of chips and a cold Gatorade.  Liz and I took off again but I was feeling too good and pulled away.  My Garmin @ 75 was indicating that my lap counter was getting full so I turned it off.  Steven caught my and we rode in Pierre together.  That is way I only have data for 75 miles.  The Garmin indicates 100 miles however the details only recorded 75 miles.  Didn’t bring the camera because I needed to use the room in my jersey pocket for food.  The services we limited and with a 100 mile day I wanted to have enough food.  We looked at prairies the entire day with an assortment of crops.  Not a great scenic day so it was nice to hammer the miles.   

Day 21 Rapid City SD to Kadoka SD

(101 miles, no other data)

Today’s century went very smooth.  The terrain was easy and the weather perfect.  In the morning we had an 18 person line going @ about 20 mph for 25 miles.  The line went until the first water stop.  We attempted to organize again however a 1 mile climb broke up the group.  We entered The Badlands National Park and the landscape changed to sand castles.  The rock had layers of violet, red, green and sandstone.  All different shapes and sizes popping up in random areas created a moonscape effect.  We entered the rim of the Badlands.  I described it as a shallow Grand Canyon of South Dakota.  After we crossed the rim the landscape changed to pastures of rolling hills.  With all the stops we made to take pictures I still arrived in camp at 3 pm.  The group setup camp in a public park adjacent to the swimming pool where we took showers.  The dinner tonight was catered at a local restaurant.  The evening was short due to the long day yesterday.  I’m writing this journal entry and crashing.  Tomorrow we have another 95 mile day and will most like do the extra 5 bonus miles and call it a century. 

Day 19 Newcastle WY to Rapid City SD

(83 miles, 5 hours 52 minutes, 14.1 mph, 39.6 max speed, 3998 calories burned, 6336 ft climbing)

Another sunny day.  Not a cloud in the sky.  I believe I read in the news that the Cloud Union is on strike and is not producing clouds.  I can tell you who is working overtime is the Wind Union.  The winds today we strong, 35-40 mph sustained winds with 50 mph gusts.  The last 18 miles was a direct head wind.  I never rode in a wind that strong.  You couldn’t take your hands off the bars or you would most likely go down.  We stopped at the top of each hill to take in fluids and food.

Back to this morning.  We rode out of town and in 11 miles the cue sheet indicated that we would be in South Dakota.  The wind in the morning for about 25 miles was just the opposite.  It was a tail wind and I had a mojo going on.  Blew right past the Welcome to South Dakota sign.  I looked at my Garmin bike computer and it said 13 miles.  I turned around and asked Liz who just crested the hill and she didn’t see the sign either.  I continued down the hill to ask the second rider and he said that it was about 1-1/2 miles back where the road surfaced changed.  So I went back and had my picture taken.

Today was a Kodak day.  The landscape changed to conifers with green grass carpeting the hills.  The rock formations were much different then MT and WY.  In Custer SD the rocks were large and deposited in various places.  We then went through Custer National Park which was absolutely “drop dead” beautiful.  On top of the beauty was a 10 mile down hill through the park.  Ran into a dozen of mules along side of the road that tourist were feeding.  We were hoping to see some bison but they were hiding from us riders.

After 25 miles we climbed to approx. 5700 ft into the Black Hills National Forest.  The descent was hairy.  Road very narrow with sweeping turns and tracker trailers.    I was on the narrow section when a semi pulling a second trailer was approaching, a car coming the opposite direction and we all met at the same spot.  I unclipped and stood there on the white line while the semi passed.  There was no shoulder.  If I stuck my hand out 6” I would have touch the semi.  In about a ½ mile the road opened up with a nice shoulder.  We rode into Custer, SD where we had our second breakfast.  Two large pancakes with sausage and OJ took me for the next 30 miles. 

Just before turning North into the head wind that I mentioned above there was a check point.  I needed to go to the bathroom so I stopped at the gas station.  The riders went without me so I waited for the next group.  I wasn’t going to do this stretch by myself.  I went back to the support vehicle and Nick (Big Ride Mechanic) noted that a couple riders went into the pizza place about ¼ mile prior to the check point.  I rode down to find Jim, Doug and Steven.  Jim and Doug were having a beer so I joined them for the second round.  We then tackled the head winds and Jim (The Rock) lead the entire 18 miles into Grand Rapids, SD. 

Tomorrow is a rest day.  I received a package from Maryjane, Ryan and Rachele with lots of goodies.  Thanks so much.  All the riders are waiting for me to share.  Also received a package from my good riding friend Jack.  Thanks Jack.  Need all the sugar I can get. 

Day 18 Gillette WY to Newcastle WY

(77 miles, 5 hours 16 minutes, 14.7 mph, 26.5 max speed, 3945 calories burned, 1874 ft climbing)

Today was another sunny day.  Unbelievable amount of sun we soaked up in the past 2+ weeks.  I don’t think clouds exist in MT and WY in the summer.  Tomorrow will be another sunny day but expected to be a little cooler.  We cross the state line into South Dakota and cycle through Custer National Park and will be near Mount Rushmore.  Saturday is a rest day so what we can’t see on Friday’s ride we should be able to take a drive and see Crazy Horse Monument.  Back to today.

Mostly it was a lazy day.  The muscle took extra miles to warm up after the 111 mile ride yesterday.  Outside of Gillette was the train switching yard that I knew had to be near.  All the trains that we have been seeing in the past two days hauling coal needed a place to park and transfer tracks.  This area supplies 30% of the nation’s coal.  It is obviously a large employee. 

I spotted more antelope today and took a couple of pictures.  This group of antelope ran with us for ½ mile until they realized we weren’t chasing them.  At mile 36 you could see Devil’s Tower to the North.  We were approx. 30 miles away but could see the top of this rock thought the haze.  This is America’s First National Monument.  Read more about the Indian folk lore @ www.nps.gov/deto.

We are staying at a Senior Community Center tonight indoors with air conditioning.  Thanks for not setting up the tent and listening to either a train whistle by every hour or the sound of traffic.  After we unloaded and took a quick shower a bunch jumped in the shower and drove to Devil’s Tower to see it up close and personal.  It was awesome.  Didn’t have enough time to go to the base and walk around however this massive rock is impressive at any distance.

Day 17 Sheridan WY to Gillette WY

(112 miles, 7 hours 4 minutes, 15.9 mph, 35 mph max speed, 5861 calories burned, 4702 ft climbing)

Today we were on the road early knowing that it was the longest day of the Big Ride.  The route had rolling hills with a couple of climbs.  In the morning we had a tail wind and a smooth road.  After we accomplished the first climb it was on to the races.  I had been riding with three other guys.  We had a pace line going for several miles switching every ½ mile.  We knocked out 25 miles in short order.  After the first water break we split up and I fell behind.  Legs were not turning so I reached in my bag of goodies and sucked down gel pack with a little caffeine.  Second wind kicked in has we reached Spotted Horse, population is 2.  The bar in Spotted Horse was opened and had a small menu.  This was the only establishment that had food since we left Sheridan.  I had a chicken sandwich with fries and saddled up again to finish the last 36 miles.  Steven was ready to go so we headed out with a head wind.  It was a tough 36 miles with the wind and the heat rising.  When entering Gillette city limits a photographer from the local newspaper was snapping pics out the window of a moving vehicle while we were riding.  We were the first into camp and a reporter interviewed us.  Maybe someone can check The Gillette News-Record on the internet for an article.  Let me know.

Today we had a net gain in elevation.  Started in Sheridan @ 3700 ft and ended in Gillette @ 4600 ft.  One more day in Wyoming and then we will cross the South Dakota border into Grand Rapids and the home of Mount Rushmore.  I understand there is another monument called Crazy Horse which makes Mount Rushmore look small.  I will send pictures to my email distribution group.  If you are not on my distribution group, send me an email at tony.cerrone@sodexo.com and I will add you.

Brendon and I had diner tonight and went to the grocery store for some fruit and water.  I’m at Starbucks writing this journal entry, having coffee and charging all my power toys.   We are camping in a public park tonight.  Tomorrow is and 80+ mile day.

Thanks for reading.

Ryan, don’t eat all the blueberries.  Put a couple in the freezer for when I get back.