Pulling Off a Three-Month Solo Cycling Journey: A Team Effort
Embarking on a three-month, solo, unsupported bicycle trip in the middle of my career isn’t exactly easy to pull off. While I may be the one pedaling 3,500+ miles this summer, this adventure wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of so many people in my life.
My Work Team: The Backbone of This Journey
First, I want to acknowledge my incredible team—Gaige, Samantha, Brittany, and Sterling. They didn’t really have a choice in this matter; I simply told them I was doing this. Yet, they have been nothing but patient, supportive, and understanding of my desire to hit the open road again this summer. We’ve established clear intentions—staying connected via chat when possible, checking emails daily (or at least every other day), and scheduling at least one day a week for client and team meetings. Their flexibility and encouragement mean the world to me.
Family: A Lifetime of Encouragement
My parents and brother have always embraced adventure. I can only imagine how stressful it must be to know that your daughter is cycling across the country alone, yet they have never discouraged me. Instead, they cheer me on, knowing that adventure is in my DNA. Their unwavering love and support are invaluable, and I’m grateful beyond words.
Special Thanks to Key Supporters
George Davis IV (Executive Director of the LouCity & Racing Foundation), Karla Villa Alonzo (Operations Coordinator of the LouCity & Racing Foundation), me and Loucy!
Jered Bogli – A crucial part of my support team, Jered has been my go-to for all things gear, bikes, and touring. He even lent me some bike packing bags and spent hours designing my logo and bike jersey. You can see more of his incredible talent & work here.
Logan Merz – Our talented graphic designer at Cairn Guidance, Logan designed my website for this journey. Not only did she put in hours of work, but she also generously donated her time.
Pedal Power & Evan Deskins – I’ve already blogged about the support Pedal Power has given me, but I want to highlight Evan once more. He provided solutions for everything—brainstorming gear essentials, grease, bacon strips (IYKYK), and even a new helmet! Grateful for their expertise.
LouCity & Racing Foundation – George, Karla, and Adam – The team at the Foundation has been incredibly supportive, putting in extra hours to connect me with partners. Even though I’m fundraising for them, their effort goes above and beyond.
Body and Soul, David Hatfield – My phenomenal personal trainer. David tailored my workouts to strengthen the muscles beyond my legs—my lower back, triceps, neck, and core—to prepare me for the long haul. His motivation and humor will no doubt keep me going on tough days.
Moolathon & Mac Wilkinson – I met Mac through Ben Reno-Weber, a friend and my city councilman. Mac, a former professional basketball player from Louisville, created Moolathon, the fundraising app we’re using. He’s been fantastic to work with, and I love supporting local, minority, and women-owned businesses.
The Adventure Cycling Association believes in the transformative power of adventure—breaking routines, unplugging, and embracing the awe of the journey. A bicycle is simply the tool to get you there. They support cyclists with over 52,000 miles of mapped routes, including the ones I’ll be using. My journey will connect 11 of their routes! If you’re passionate about cycling, I encourage you to become a member and support their work.
Debbie Neff: A True Cycling Companion
Debbie, my cycling buddy in Morehead, KY, and I connected during COVID, logging countless hours on the road together. I’ll miss riding with her this summer, but I know she’s cheering me on. She even named my bike—suggesting “Lucy,” which I tweaked to “Loucy” as a nod to LouCity and Racing Lou. Though we won’t be riding together, our mantras—“Get in the groove, keep the momentum, finish strong!” and “I choose this!”—will be in my head every mile of the way.
Friends, Family & Colleagues: The True Support Network
So many people are part of my team. I’ve asked some to send me a bead or charm, just as I did on my last journey, creating a bracelet that keeps them with me in spirit. I have support from friends all over the U.S. and the world, including cousins, aunts, uncles, and colleagues. Knowing they’re cheering me on makes every mile feel lighter.
This journey may be solo, but I am far from alone. Thank you to every single person who has supported me in making this dream a reality. Here’s to the adventure ahead—one pedal stroke at a time!
The bracelet I wore every day during my 2013 journey.