Talk about a much needed zero.
Four consecutive days of long miles, climbing stunning mountain passes and record high temps cresting the 100 degree mark had us limping into Missoula. Impressively, I never heard a crew member complain nor see them crack. Here's some take aways from week two:
Self supported is the way to go.
When we put this trip together, the scouts insisted that we carry our own gear. We pushed back a little, as it made for some tougher logistics, but self supported was totally the right call.
When you don't have a support car, you have to be outward facing and rely on your own skills along with the kindness of those that you meet on the road to pull you through. You get to briefly enter the lives of others. You learn from those you meet, along the way. It's a great opportunity that this mode of travel provides.
Would we have ever met Mark Mrdalj who went out of his way to buy us breakfast if we were not self supported? I doubt it. Thanks Mark.
Steve Rothwell is a great guy.
Steve was such a pleasure to have on the first two weeks of this trip. Always in a good mood, his cycling skills and genuine concern for the boys well being was continuously evident. He set the boys up for a successful trip as he passed the baton to Karl Murphy at the Montana state line.
Steve completes his segment
Thanks Steve. I owe you one.
It's off to bed, so bring on week three: The road to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons! Karl Murphy will be continuing the daily report tradition. Once again we will be in some pretty remote areas so it may take some time for the posts to hit the blog.