Planning a 11,000 mile route around all the exterior United States

 As you can imagine, planning a 11,000 mile plus route around all the exterior United States can be an overwhelming task.  Like any other big goal you have to take it one step at a time, and that is exactly what Scott did.  He started by researching what was available for cycle routes. He found many that went across the United States, but none that went around the United States.  Scott may be the first to do that...! 

Next he found maps (to at least partially use) of established bike routes - in this instance Adventure Cycling Association had maps that Scott was able to purchase.   Scott spent over 300 hours over several months planning turn by turn directions for each and every day he will be out cycling.  He finished the route with two handwritten books of detailed turn by turn directions. 

The next step we took together was to take the route, and plot it against a calendar to get a feel for an average of 300 miles per week, just over 60 plus miles a day, taking some days and weeks off.  It's helpful that Katy has done 4 ironman triathlons which entailed several months of training, as well as Scott's Tour of MN 300 mile cycle trip he took last summer.  We planned for make-up days, weather days, mechanical failures with the bike, and physical rest days for Scott. We have also planned trips back to Minnesota for Katy's daughter's wedding and for Scott's ongoing pet scans, blood tests and  treatment at Mayo ( currently 6 month Lupron shots.)   The last step will be going over the calendar with his Coach, Neil King.   

Scott will cycle through 33 states over one year.  We are mainly traveling through small towns.  Besides cycling, we have had to consider where we will stop with the camper.  Another consideration has been trying to stay ahead of winter weather, and then waiting for snow to melt to get through Montana!   While much time has been  spent planning we recognize we will also have to be flexible for all the unknowns we will encounter along the way.  Besides stopping to tell Scott's story and raising awareness and funds, we also hope to see family and soak in the beautiful sights  along the way.  

So where did this idea come from? Scott has had this dream to do this since he was a young adult.  When he was diagnosed with the stage 4 prostate cancer, and he lost his son Benny, he realized life is a gift and fragile. He committed to follow his dreams while simultaneously doing good for others - raising awareness and funds for prostate cancer and schizophrenia.  Please share this blog with others, and follow along on this extraordinary journey.   More background on www.milesformoney.org 

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