Preparations

April is here, and departure is just six weeks away! Preparing for a journey like this is no small task—every day, I spend at least 1-2 hours getting everything in place. You might be wondering, what exactly am I working on (besides putting in miles on the saddle)? Here’s a glimpse at what’s keeping me busy:

• Gear Setup: Researching how to carry all my essentials on my new bike. Last time, I hauled a Burley Nomad trailer; this time, everything will be packed on the frame. That means figuring out how to fit 100L of space for toiletries, clothing, gear, tools, hydration, and food.

• Hydration Strategy: Cyclists have different preferences—reservoirs with tubes, bottles on the frame, rear-mounted systems, etc. With thousands of hours in the saddle, I know what works for me, but I’m fine-tuning the setup.

• Branding & Design: Working with Jered, a graphic designer, to create my logo, bicycle jersey, soccer jersey, and t-shirts. Bike jerseys arrived today and they are HOT! Order yours by April 15 on this team store!

• Website Development: Collaborating with Logan, a web designer, to build my site. Plus, I’m writing the copy for every page and drafting blog posts.

• Drone Practice: Learning to use my new HoverAir drone for capturing footage on the road.

• Fundraising Setup: Meeting with Mac from Moolathon to finalize my pledge page and options. We are calling them pledges because the funds raised do not transfer until I complete the miles someone pledges!

• Promo Materials: Designing and ordering postcards and stickers to share my journey. They’re in and look great. Been giving them to everyone I meet.

• Communication: Setting up an official email (pedal2thepitch@gmail.com) and reaching out to friends, family, and supporters.

• Strength Training: Focusing on core, lower back, and triceps—my legs are already ready!

• Gear Upgrades: Researching a new Garmin watch and ordering new sunglasses with interchangeable lenses for different light conditions.

• Logistics & Coverage: Arranging for mail, plants, and dog care while I’m away.

• Sentimental Support: Collecting beads and charms from friends and family to create a bracelet—just like last time—to remind me of my team.

• Outreach: Sending postcards and emails to my holiday list, sharing my journey, and inviting donations or support.

• Work Planning: Ensuring my employees and team are supported while I’m on the road.

• Route Planning: Mapping out tough sections where food, water, and lodging may be scarce.

• Navigation Tools: Ordering paper and GPX maps from the Adventure Cycling Association.

• Fundraising Strategy: Coordinating with the LouCity & Racing Foundation on fundraising plans.

Bike jerseys arrived today!

• Media & Promotion: Arranging professional photos and preparing for an interview at the stadium.

• Warmshowers Network: Updating my host profile and researching potential stays along my route.

• Packing & Weight Distribution: Practicing how to load my bike for comfort and handling.

• Safety & Protection: Researching a new helmet for the ride.

• Client Communication: Planning how to inform clients about my summer schedule.

• Community Events: Working with Metro Louisville to organize a Bike to the Louisville City FC Match on May 10, encouraging more people to cycle to games.

• Infrastructure Improvements: Researching grants for Soccer Holdings to help install permanent bike racks at the stadium.

• Networking on the Road: Reaching out to colleagues across the U.S. to see if they have any connections along my route.

And that’s just a snapshot—the list keeps growing! The countdown is on, and every day brings me closer to hitting the road. 🚴‍♀️💨