Wednesday, June 2nd
We stayed at YMCA and my eyes were open at five thirty. I was surprised to find myself with getting used to wake up so early. I tried to pack as fast as I could and get ready to hit the road. I stayed on the van a day before and I could not get more excited to get back on the bike after one day’s rest. The ride was only sixty two miles and after climbing Appalachian Mountains, nothing could be harder. Although there were some hills in between, there were many down hills as well. I never thought biking could be exciting sports, climbing down the hills after struggling to go up that high is definitely so much rewarding and exciting. I started as one of the weakest riders, and I was much concerned that I would not be able to catch up with the group, but I could already feel that my legs got much stronger. The ride did not go as smooth as we thought. Although the course itself was not very challenging, due to so much traffic, we always had to extra careful especially when there are so many gravels on the shoulder of the road. Also, I am not much of a big eater, however since the trip started, I started binging during the water stops and lunch knowing that I won’t be able to keep up unless I am full of energy. We had burgers for lunch. Normally, I would hate to eat burgers, however, after biking miles, I could not wish for more. It is actually amusing how adaptive humans including I can be to the environment given. Also, it made me think that I have not been grateful enough for what I was given. The main reason I started the trip was to fight the cancer along with my dad who is going through chemotherapy. I have to admit that I could face the dad as sick as he is. I just could not bear to see him in so much pain. In my memory, he has been always so strong and supportive for me. Maybe, I was selfish to begin with. However, as I meet more cancer patients, generous supporters and other riders along the with the demanding nature of the ride itself, I am learning to be a better person; it helps me cope with my dad’s illness and I am not alone in the world who is afraid and full of fear.
-Chorong Song
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Friday, July 9, 2010
Day 40 and 41: Grand Junction, CO to Moab, UT
Thursday and Friday, July 8th and July 9th
It was 4:00am, the birds weren’t chirping, the sun wasn’t shining but our cell phone alarms sure were blasting. Today was our earliest wake up yet, but for good reason. We had a 100 mile day ahead of us with an expected high of 94 degrees! Welcome to the DESERT 4k!!!! To make matters worse, we stayed on actual beds in Grand Junction! Mattresses are rare but wonderful commodities on the 4k. Leaving the comfort of a mattress is a struggle. But of course we all woke up and went on with our regular morning routine. For breakfast we had about 100 bagels to choose from thanks to the generosity of Grand Junction’s own Main Street Bagels. The sun was barely peaking over the horizon as we dedicated our ride at our morning circle.
The first 20 miles of the ride were a bit terrifying. Apparently it’s NOT illegal for cyclist to ride on the I-70 in Colorado or Utah. This is the first time we intentionally ride on an interstate… key word: intentionally! It was difficult to get used to cars and trucks speeding past us at 75 miles an hour, but we survived. The tail winds helped us get through the interstate quickly. Tail winds are also a rare luxury for us and we like to take advantage of them when we can. One of the highlights of the say was going 25 mph up a hill.
It was bitter sweet to leave Colorado today. It definitely lived up to its name “Colorful Colorado”. The best word to describe the past week in Colorado is MAJESTIC! It’s sad to leave such a beautiful state, but exciting to finally get to Utah! Utah’s state sign read “Life Elevated”. Only 3 states to go!
I am always amazed as to how quickly the scenery changes from one state to the other. At around mile 70 we began to bike alongside the Colorado River (in Utah). Surrounding the river were 30-story-high mesas (flat top mountains) that are difficult to describe. The contrast between the clay red of the mesas, the deep blue sky and the greenish-blue river was spectacular. I felt like we were riding through a story book. The only down side to today was the heat: after lunch the temperature quickly shot up to close to 100 degrees. The one thing that kept me going was Chris’ narration of Harry Potter and the Deadly Hollows (book 7). His dialogue was right on point, although his British accent began to sound more and more like a mix between a Scottish, Irish and Swedish accent. He kept it going for about 90 out of the 100 miles… I was on the edge of my saddle with suspense.
The heat started to get to us, so Meghan, Kieran, Dan and I decided to take a little swim in the Colorado River. We only had 5 miles left in the day but it was completely worth it. It was a great way to cool off and really experience the beauty of Moab.
We were able to dry off quickly with the heat and we finally we rolled into Moab. It’s always great to walk into an air conditioned church after a long day, especially when the congregation greets us with ice cold pink lemonade (my favorite). Dinner was fantastic! We had Navajo tacos with beans, beef and an assortment of toppings. I’m familiar with regular tacos held together by a tortilla, but these were held together by fried bread. I don’t want to admit it… but I have to say that fried bread is definitely tastier than a tortilla. It was great to talk to all the community members. They were all so excited to have us here for two days. We are all ready for a day off here. We have plans to sleep in, shop around for bike gear and explore the beautiful Arch’s National Park.
- Adali
It was 4:00am, the birds weren’t chirping, the sun wasn’t shining but our cell phone alarms sure were blasting. Today was our earliest wake up yet, but for good reason. We had a 100 mile day ahead of us with an expected high of 94 degrees! Welcome to the DESERT 4k!!!! To make matters worse, we stayed on actual beds in Grand Junction! Mattresses are rare but wonderful commodities on the 4k. Leaving the comfort of a mattress is a struggle. But of course we all woke up and went on with our regular morning routine. For breakfast we had about 100 bagels to choose from thanks to the generosity of Grand Junction’s own Main Street Bagels. The sun was barely peaking over the horizon as we dedicated our ride at our morning circle.
The first 20 miles of the ride were a bit terrifying. Apparently it’s NOT illegal for cyclist to ride on the I-70 in Colorado or Utah. This is the first time we intentionally ride on an interstate… key word: intentionally! It was difficult to get used to cars and trucks speeding past us at 75 miles an hour, but we survived. The tail winds helped us get through the interstate quickly. Tail winds are also a rare luxury for us and we like to take advantage of them when we can. One of the highlights of the say was going 25 mph up a hill.
It was bitter sweet to leave Colorado today. It definitely lived up to its name “Colorful Colorado”. The best word to describe the past week in Colorado is MAJESTIC! It’s sad to leave such a beautiful state, but exciting to finally get to Utah! Utah’s state sign read “Life Elevated”. Only 3 states to go!
I am always amazed as to how quickly the scenery changes from one state to the other. At around mile 70 we began to bike alongside the Colorado River (in Utah). Surrounding the river were 30-story-high mesas (flat top mountains) that are difficult to describe. The contrast between the clay red of the mesas, the deep blue sky and the greenish-blue river was spectacular. I felt like we were riding through a story book. The only down side to today was the heat: after lunch the temperature quickly shot up to close to 100 degrees. The one thing that kept me going was Chris’ narration of Harry Potter and the Deadly Hollows (book 7). His dialogue was right on point, although his British accent began to sound more and more like a mix between a Scottish, Irish and Swedish accent. He kept it going for about 90 out of the 100 miles… I was on the edge of my saddle with suspense.
The heat started to get to us, so Meghan, Kieran, Dan and I decided to take a little swim in the Colorado River. We only had 5 miles left in the day but it was completely worth it. It was a great way to cool off and really experience the beauty of Moab.
We were able to dry off quickly with the heat and we finally we rolled into Moab. It’s always great to walk into an air conditioned church after a long day, especially when the congregation greets us with ice cold pink lemonade (my favorite). Dinner was fantastic! We had Navajo tacos with beans, beef and an assortment of toppings. I’m familiar with regular tacos held together by a tortilla, but these were held together by fried bread. I don’t want to admit it… but I have to say that fried bread is definitely tastier than a tortilla. It was great to talk to all the community members. They were all so excited to have us here for two days. We are all ready for a day off here. We have plans to sleep in, shop around for bike gear and explore the beautiful Arch’s National Park.
- Adali
Day 35: Estes Park, CO to Granby, CO
Saturday, July 3rd
The fro.
How would he fit it in his helmet? That was the question running through most of our minds as we awaited breakfast, accompanied by Dave Luongo (owner of the fro) a director from ’05 and Chris and Tom, directors from last year. It was a welcome distraction from the 22 mile climb awaiting us just a short distance away.
To describe the climb of Trail Ridge would to be to take away from the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, so prepare for the underestimation of the summer. Arriving at the toll building at the entrance to US-34/Trail Ridge Road, we were each asked to contribute $10 as we passed GO. Ascending the weaving road that would lead to a total altitude of 12,300 feet left our team breathless not only due to the thinning air and physical exertion, but also with the panoramic views that came with each clearing in the trees and lookout point along the road.
Our second day of climbing in the Rockies along Trail Ridge was less steep but longer, yielding more opportunity for photos and more views that encouraged the team to stop more often. Around 5 miles from the summit, most 4Kers pulled to the side of the road for a water stop and photo opportunity at the “4K Rock,” which remained exclusive to the 4Kers even as the Bike-and-Builders tried to approach (Thank you, Chris Louie). Unfortunately, Trail Ridge Road was unpaved, and the harsh headwinds we encountered on the end of our path up the hill nearly pushed some riders off the cliff, if not off of their bikes for a break. The icy peaks above the tree line and the sparse forested areas below that speckled the landscape provided ample reason to stop and take a breather, and left us all exuberant as we stopped for lunch at the Rocky Mountain National Park lodge.
The beautiful and speedy descent lasted several miles down the mountain and was a welcomed follow up to the miles of climbing that had preceded it. Riding toward Granby, we were exhausted but proud to be part of a team that had undertaken such an enormous challenge and succeeded…welcomed at the church by a mandatory van-cleaning session after the largest climb of our trip. Welcome to the 4K.
-Kieran Coleman
The fro.
How would he fit it in his helmet? That was the question running through most of our minds as we awaited breakfast, accompanied by Dave Luongo (owner of the fro) a director from ’05 and Chris and Tom, directors from last year. It was a welcome distraction from the 22 mile climb awaiting us just a short distance away.
To describe the climb of Trail Ridge would to be to take away from the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, so prepare for the underestimation of the summer. Arriving at the toll building at the entrance to US-34/Trail Ridge Road, we were each asked to contribute $10 as we passed GO. Ascending the weaving road that would lead to a total altitude of 12,300 feet left our team breathless not only due to the thinning air and physical exertion, but also with the panoramic views that came with each clearing in the trees and lookout point along the road.
Our second day of climbing in the Rockies along Trail Ridge was less steep but longer, yielding more opportunity for photos and more views that encouraged the team to stop more often. Around 5 miles from the summit, most 4Kers pulled to the side of the road for a water stop and photo opportunity at the “4K Rock,” which remained exclusive to the 4Kers even as the Bike-and-Builders tried to approach (Thank you, Chris Louie). Unfortunately, Trail Ridge Road was unpaved, and the harsh headwinds we encountered on the end of our path up the hill nearly pushed some riders off the cliff, if not off of their bikes for a break. The icy peaks above the tree line and the sparse forested areas below that speckled the landscape provided ample reason to stop and take a breather, and left us all exuberant as we stopped for lunch at the Rocky Mountain National Park lodge.
The beautiful and speedy descent lasted several miles down the mountain and was a welcomed follow up to the miles of climbing that had preceded it. Riding toward Granby, we were exhausted but proud to be part of a team that had undertaken such an enormous challenge and succeeded…welcomed at the church by a mandatory van-cleaning session after the largest climb of our trip. Welcome to the 4K.
-Kieran Coleman
Day 37: Kremmling, CO to Glenwood Springs, CO
Monday, July 5, 2010
After celebrating the 4th of July in Kremmling, Colorado we were awaken at 5 am to continue on our journey. At the town square’s showing of fireworks the night before, we met a fellow long distance cyclist – David. The night was getting cold, and since he normally camps out every night, we invited him to join us in the warmth of the church. At the breakfast table he shared his tale: he is singlehandedly traveling the Continental Divide (from Canada to Mexico) with just the bag on his bike and a few maps –nothing planned in advance nor food guaranteed. He made us all really think how the gig we’ve got isn’t half bad.
David and the 4K parted ways around 6:30 and we headed outside for morning circle – those on the team still sleepy were brutally awakened by the bitter cold temperature of 38 degrees that met us that morning. We decided to instead hold morning circle inside, and geared up with leg warmers and as many layers as we could and we set off into the sunrise.
Team Mucus consisted of Dana (team captain and hence the name), Erica, Andrew, Kristine and myself. We encountered what looked to be fog, but ended up being clouds considering how high up we were. We made one of our first turns and encountered the major feat of the day: a thirty-mile, hill-infested dirt road. We were all fairly warm after we reached the top of the first big climb, and surprisingly Andrew’s ThickSlick tires (which normally do not hold well to the ground) served him well on all the gravel and dirt.
Many more climbs and descents followed on this horrific road and there were even times when there were bits of pavement in between all the dirt/gravel. Fortunately for us, Kristine remembered where some of these were from last year, but while that prior knowledge kept her safe from the dangerous changes in terrain, it did not help her against the somewhat suicidal deer that ran in front of her. Luckily neither she nor the deer was harmed during the course of the day. The most memorable descent by far was the almost three mile descent between two mountains, only to see on your way down that you had to make a left turn at the bottom and climb right back up the adjacent mountain. It was after this climb that poor Dana had to leave Team Mucus for all the mucus in her lungs inhibited her ability to breathe. Kevin reassured us that the top was near, and we trekked on for a ridiculous amount of time before it became clear to us that Kevin was lying and the top was not soon at all.
When we finally reached the top, however, the descent was awesome. The majority of the rest of the day was downhill/flat, and it was truly amazing to see the transition from the tree-filled mountains turn to red rock and stone. Yet another reminder that we are definitely on our way out of the Rockies!
We moved lunch up to the 50 mile mark because the mountains were deceptively long. It was here that Terence and Amelia went for a dip in the Colorado River and Kieran “craiged” the van by backing it up into a tree. Woops!
Probably the most rewarding part of the day was the end, but not for the obvious reason of almost being done – but instead the beautiful bike path that took us along the Colorado River. (Pictures will be posted soon). It was here that I got my first flat tire, and as a result can no longer say that I’ve trekked across the country without a flat. Luckily Kristine changed my flat in record time (one that may rival Henrik’s record – this is to be determined) and we entered Glenwood Springs a little past 7pm.
Quite a long day, but a gorgeous one at that!
-Krystina Laucik
PS – For those of you who are concerned about our valiant team captain Dana – she went to the doctor and found out she has a sinus infection and is currently on antibiotics!
After celebrating the 4th of July in Kremmling, Colorado we were awaken at 5 am to continue on our journey. At the town square’s showing of fireworks the night before, we met a fellow long distance cyclist – David. The night was getting cold, and since he normally camps out every night, we invited him to join us in the warmth of the church. At the breakfast table he shared his tale: he is singlehandedly traveling the Continental Divide (from Canada to Mexico) with just the bag on his bike and a few maps –nothing planned in advance nor food guaranteed. He made us all really think how the gig we’ve got isn’t half bad.
David and the 4K parted ways around 6:30 and we headed outside for morning circle – those on the team still sleepy were brutally awakened by the bitter cold temperature of 38 degrees that met us that morning. We decided to instead hold morning circle inside, and geared up with leg warmers and as many layers as we could and we set off into the sunrise.
Team Mucus consisted of Dana (team captain and hence the name), Erica, Andrew, Kristine and myself. We encountered what looked to be fog, but ended up being clouds considering how high up we were. We made one of our first turns and encountered the major feat of the day: a thirty-mile, hill-infested dirt road. We were all fairly warm after we reached the top of the first big climb, and surprisingly Andrew’s ThickSlick tires (which normally do not hold well to the ground) served him well on all the gravel and dirt.
Many more climbs and descents followed on this horrific road and there were even times when there were bits of pavement in between all the dirt/gravel. Fortunately for us, Kristine remembered where some of these were from last year, but while that prior knowledge kept her safe from the dangerous changes in terrain, it did not help her against the somewhat suicidal deer that ran in front of her. Luckily neither she nor the deer was harmed during the course of the day. The most memorable descent by far was the almost three mile descent between two mountains, only to see on your way down that you had to make a left turn at the bottom and climb right back up the adjacent mountain. It was after this climb that poor Dana had to leave Team Mucus for all the mucus in her lungs inhibited her ability to breathe. Kevin reassured us that the top was near, and we trekked on for a ridiculous amount of time before it became clear to us that Kevin was lying and the top was not soon at all.
When we finally reached the top, however, the descent was awesome. The majority of the rest of the day was downhill/flat, and it was truly amazing to see the transition from the tree-filled mountains turn to red rock and stone. Yet another reminder that we are definitely on our way out of the Rockies!
We moved lunch up to the 50 mile mark because the mountains were deceptively long. It was here that Terence and Amelia went for a dip in the Colorado River and Kieran “craiged” the van by backing it up into a tree. Woops!
Probably the most rewarding part of the day was the end, but not for the obvious reason of almost being done – but instead the beautiful bike path that took us along the Colorado River. (Pictures will be posted soon). It was here that I got my first flat tire, and as a result can no longer say that I’ve trekked across the country without a flat. Luckily Kristine changed my flat in record time (one that may rival Henrik’s record – this is to be determined) and we entered Glenwood Springs a little past 7pm.
Quite a long day, but a gorgeous one at that!
-Krystina Laucik
PS – For those of you who are concerned about our valiant team captain Dana – she went to the doctor and found out she has a sinus infection and is currently on antibiotics!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Day 36: Grandby, Co to Kremmling, CO
Sunday, July 4rth
What better way to celebrate America‘s Independence Day than a lazy, 28-mile downhill ride into Kremmling, Colorado? We started the day by sleeping in until 6:30 am (I’m not being sarcastic) and cruised out of Grandby. Last night, we watched the fireworks in Grandby after the rodeo and several of us continued the celebration of the 4th today by wearing American “flair” on our bikes. All groups took their time getting into Kremmling by exploring what Hot Sulpher Springs had to offer and their curiously named local establishments. We rode through beautiful Byers Canyon with horses on the left and deer jumping along to the right just as a train wound around the steep canyon walls above the river; tumbleweed was blowing across Main Street, Kremmling and the only thing missing to make this a real Western was dueling cowboys.
Groups arrived early into Kremmling and more or less took it easy afterwards. Tonight everyone plans to watch the fireworks over the cliffs that hang above Kremmling. Happy 4th of July everyone!
- Kristen Schubert
What better way to celebrate America‘s Independence Day than a lazy, 28-mile downhill ride into Kremmling, Colorado? We started the day by sleeping in until 6:30 am (I’m not being sarcastic) and cruised out of Grandby. Last night, we watched the fireworks in Grandby after the rodeo and several of us continued the celebration of the 4th today by wearing American “flair” on our bikes. All groups took their time getting into Kremmling by exploring what Hot Sulpher Springs had to offer and their curiously named local establishments. We rode through beautiful Byers Canyon with horses on the left and deer jumping along to the right just as a train wound around the steep canyon walls above the river; tumbleweed was blowing across Main Street, Kremmling and the only thing missing to make this a real Western was dueling cowboys.
Groups arrived early into Kremmling and more or less took it easy afterwards. Tonight everyone plans to watch the fireworks over the cliffs that hang above Kremmling. Happy 4th of July everyone!
- Kristen Schubert
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Day 34: Boulder, CO to Estes Park, CO
Friday. July 2nd
FINALLY, The Rocky Mountains.
Longingly awaited by some, feared by others, suspiciously eyed by all during our ride into Boulder and during our day-off in this beautiful resort of liberalism in the heart of Colorado. Reinforced by two 4K alumni we left the First Baptist Church between 6.30 and 7.00, heading north. They suggested not to take Lee Hill Road, as originally planned, but to take the flatter and 5 miles longer detour around the steepest part of the mountain. All 4kers except the fearless Kristen, Amelia, Abhishek and Henrik opted for the longer route and enjoyed a rather gradual ascent. Meanwhile, the quartet was greeted by a 14% incline already after the first switchback but was compensated for their efforts with a marvelous descent. Only Abhishek got unlucky. He jammed his chain and was set back for several minutes but caught up quickly without breaking into sweat.
All riders met again on Lefthand Canyon Road on their way across the first real mountain pass of this trip. The views were fantastic, the roads predominantly in excellent condition and the weather ideal for a nice ride. The roads weren't too steep, but sometimes averaged 7-8% for a long stretch which can be tedious in high altitude. Several of us complained about the thin air, only Amelia couldn't stop babbling how nice it smells and how clean it is.
After around 18 miles we arrived at the tiny city of Ward. What was formerly a mining settlement seemed to have turned into a hiding place for the last hippies in America. But to our surprise, they were serving great espresso, which was a rare treat in the farmlands of the Midwest. From Ward, it was only another half mile to the mountain pass where we took a water stop and regrouped.
After the pass, we had another 32 miles of wonderful descents, short climbs and spectacular views. Especially overseeing the valley of Estes Park was breathtaking. This was real road-biking! Especially those that have never been in the mountains, not to mention on a bike, were amazed by the beauty of Colorado. Overall we climbed almost 2000 meters (>6500 feet) over 50 miles in around 4 hours and 30 minutes and most of us agreed that it has been the best day on this trip so far. Trail Ridge Road - we are coming!
- Henrik Bläute
FINALLY, The Rocky Mountains.
Longingly awaited by some, feared by others, suspiciously eyed by all during our ride into Boulder and during our day-off in this beautiful resort of liberalism in the heart of Colorado. Reinforced by two 4K alumni we left the First Baptist Church between 6.30 and 7.00, heading north. They suggested not to take Lee Hill Road, as originally planned, but to take the flatter and 5 miles longer detour around the steepest part of the mountain. All 4kers except the fearless Kristen, Amelia, Abhishek and Henrik opted for the longer route and enjoyed a rather gradual ascent. Meanwhile, the quartet was greeted by a 14% incline already after the first switchback but was compensated for their efforts with a marvelous descent. Only Abhishek got unlucky. He jammed his chain and was set back for several minutes but caught up quickly without breaking into sweat.
All riders met again on Lefthand Canyon Road on their way across the first real mountain pass of this trip. The views were fantastic, the roads predominantly in excellent condition and the weather ideal for a nice ride. The roads weren't too steep, but sometimes averaged 7-8% for a long stretch which can be tedious in high altitude. Several of us complained about the thin air, only Amelia couldn't stop babbling how nice it smells and how clean it is.
After around 18 miles we arrived at the tiny city of Ward. What was formerly a mining settlement seemed to have turned into a hiding place for the last hippies in America. But to our surprise, they were serving great espresso, which was a rare treat in the farmlands of the Midwest. From Ward, it was only another half mile to the mountain pass where we took a water stop and regrouped.
After the pass, we had another 32 miles of wonderful descents, short climbs and spectacular views. Especially overseeing the valley of Estes Park was breathtaking. This was real road-biking! Especially those that have never been in the mountains, not to mention on a bike, were amazed by the beauty of Colorado. Overall we climbed almost 2000 meters (>6500 feet) over 50 miles in around 4 hours and 30 minutes and most of us agreed that it has been the best day on this trip so far. Trail Ridge Road - we are coming!
- Henrik Bläute
Mail Drops for the Third Leg
Wed July 14:
c/o SUU Housing
351 W. University Blvd
Cedar City, UT 84720
Attn: Lee Chamberlain
Tues July 20:
Austin Baptist Church
P.O. Box 183
Austin, NV 89310
Sun July 25
Episcopal Church of St. Anne
1020 W. Lincoln Road
Stockton, CA 95207
c/o SUU Housing
351 W. University Blvd
Cedar City, UT 84720
Attn: Lee Chamberlain
Tues July 20:
Austin Baptist Church
P.O. Box 183
Austin, NV 89310
Sun July 25
Episcopal Church of St. Anne
1020 W. Lincoln Road
Stockton, CA 95207
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