I am a U.S. Coast Guard veteran who endeavors to Live the Dream every day as a proud American. For the time being, this blog chronicles my bicycling adventures.

THE CONTEXT

Bicycling is a magnificent expression of personal freedom.

Since an early age while growing up in Washington, DC, I’ve enjoyed bicycling. I recall DC summers when I would bike 5 miles to the U.S. Capitol, leave my bike unlocked by the white marble steps, and walk without restriction into halls of Congress to visit an uncle who worked in the Capitol Barber Shop.

During my 40-year military career, I bike commuted to work when I could. During one particularly active year in Hawaii, I logged over 8,000 miles. I have completed more century rides than I can count. I’ve had my share of spectacular mishaps but consider myself fortunate to have emerged wiser from each incident.

I enjoy cycling’s challenges, its health benefits, and the camaraderie that it promotes.

THE IDEA

Some years ago during our occasional scotch and cigar summits, a few of my Coast Guard buddies and I mused about our retirement bucket list. We agreed that the list should include a bicycling tour across the United States.

Each of us had criss-crossed the country in our automobiles, hurriedly zipping from one military assignment to the next.  Wouldn’t it be grand to slow the pace as a group of touring cyclist friends, and explore America, as it deserves to be experienced?

As I prepared to fully retire in January 2017, my best friend sent me an insightful book, The Joy of Not Working by Ernie Zelinski. The book helped to galvanize my thoughts about my own bucket list.  I decided to advance my desire to cycle across America from simply being a dream to becoming a concrete plan of action.

THE PREPARATION

Since Inauguration Day 2017, I have conducted considerable research, gathered the necessary equipment, and logged over 1,500 miles of go-as-fast-as-I-can training miles.

During training, I lost 20 pounds and gained significant increases in strength and stamina. My quad muscles have re-developed. I’ve successfully worked through a few minor sports injuries. I even incorporated some yoga stretches into my routine to enhance my flexibility.

To be clear, while I feel physically better than I have in years, cycling requires considerably more effort than I was accustomed to in the past. Even with a lighter me, a heavier bike for touring and almost 50 pounds of stuff makes the effort all the more challenging, especially on climbs.

I occasionally hit the wall during long training rides. Fortunately, I found the inner strength to push on, often reflecting on the profound words from a tee shirt a Marine Corps friend once gave me.  It said, “Pain is weakness leaving the body.” To the purists out there, I recognize that there are limits to this concept.

As my training progressed, and in consideration of my own physical capabilities (and limitations), I decided that 2017 was the optimal year for me to embark on this cycling adventure.

My original intention was to seek to join a group of touring cyclists. After research into group ride opportunities, I decided to go it solo. My “summit” buddies don’t yet have the freedom over time that I enjoy; some plan to join me during a few days of the trek. I welcome and encourage everyone!

My decision to go it solo is harmonious with my introverted tendencies. To me, solo doesn’t mean bereft of human interaction; I expect to meet other cycling tourists on the road. And I look forward to pleasant exchanges with townspeople along the way.

Physically, mentally, and emotionally, I am as ready as I can be.

THE PLAN

My plan is to bike from Portland, Oregon, to Yorktown, Virginia, generally following the well-traveled TransAmerica Trail (maps are available from the Adventure Cycling Association). The total route is about 4,200 miles.

Logistically, I plan to carry everything I need on the bike.  I’ve categorized all of my gear as stuff to: sustain the bike, sustain me on the bike, rest on the road (e.g. camping), and occasionally rest off the road (e.g. hotels).

Water will be my most precious commodity during the trip. In this regard, I appreciate the outstanding tips provided by Neil Gunton in his blog about his inspiring bicycle ride across America in 1998: see Crazy Guy On A Bike.

My start date is weather-dependent. I will be guided by those indispensable NOAA weather forecasts. I want to avoid overly cold conditions in the mountains, mainly to minimize the weight of my stuff.

My goal is to complete the trek within three months.

I will provide updates during off-road stops and as WiFi allows. Consistent with all of my social media postings, my updates will be retrospective in nature. My devoted wife will track my real time movements using satellite technology. I deeply appreciate her for her love, patience, and support!

Many of my friends and professional colleagues have asked me about sponsorship and fundraising. As for me, I am self-sufficient and will continue to draw strength from the uplifting thoughts and prayers of others. As for my causes of interest, I have many but will cite these three for anyone interested: The International Myeloma Foundation Veterans Against Myeloma, Coast Guard Academy Alumni Association Eclipse Legacy Fund, and Covenant House Washington.

Thanks for sharing in this epic adventure with me.

Semper Paratus!