Day 48: Ride to Revere Beach

Our final ride of the cross country trip -- a short 17 miles to Revere Beach and the Atlantic Ocean -- started this morning (Fri, Jun 27) at 7:15am.  The sky was sunny and clear, the temperature was in the mid 60Fs, and there was no discernible wind.  In fewer words, a perfect morning.  Groups consisting of 2-3 riders each were sent off every 3 minutes to create space (at least initially) for facilitating travel along narrow, somewhat busy, residential and business district streets.

Our group rode slowing and with vigilance through the neighborhoods between our hotel in Burlington and Revere Beach.  The last thing any of us wanted was a tire puncture or an accident.  In order for all riders on the tour to group up before riding the final miles together, all groups were asked to stop and wait at a community pool approximately 4 miles from the beach.

Leading the way to Revere Beach were (L to R) Joanne (Mrs Stuart), Stuart, and Geoffrey.
Pierre and Mrs Pierre (Sharon) in foreground.

Michael and Michelle (Mrs Michael) start their ride in style.

Tim (left), Chuck (right), and I are ready to roll.

Riding through neighborhoods to Revere Beach (2 photos)

Everyone gathered a second time at a community pool before riding in solidarity
to Revere Beach for the ceremonial completion of our 7-week ride across America.
L to R:  Darrell, Ross, Pierre, Alan, Richard, Barry, Michael, Joanne, Stuart, Geoffrey, Tim, me.
Missing from photo are Michelle and Chuck.
Randy - an original XC2014 rider who was injured  and could not complete the tour this year --
is considered to be with us in spirit.

Leaving the community pool for Revere Beach 

Cresting the hill near Revere Beach

Arriving at Revere Beach

Ceremonial dipping of the front wheel in the Atlantic Ocean.
I rode Every F---king Inch (EFI) of XC2014 .....

Tim (far left), Michael (second from left), and Chuck (far right) are great guys
who were frequent riding buddies

I sure hope I can connect with Tim (left), Geoffrey (right), and Richard (with family in photo below)
in an event in their home country England.  Their humor, comradeship, and intelligent perspectives on America and American life made me laugh often, caused me to think in a different way, or made me realize that I can sometimes take for granted the tremendous bounty that is America.  

Benevolent, strong-legged King Richard with his family.
(L to R: Future son-in-law Chris, Princess Sophie, Queen Jane, His Excellency, and Prince Edward)

To all the CrossRoads XC2014 riders and staff......I SALUTE YOU!
Whether we rode together a little or a lot, I learned much from you about cycling and life.
I am a better and stronger person for knowing you.

That's it.  I'm tired, but very content.  In a few days, I'll publish my final thoughts and even previous random ones that I never worked into a post.  Thanks to all of you who rode along virtually for a day, a week, or for the whole trip.  Thanks too for all of your well wishes and words of encouragement.  I hope this blog provided a little light entertainment along the way at least, if not an inspiration for you to live your dreams.

Happy and safe rides always,

Herm