By Mark Hance
After several days of challenging air quality, we have some fantastic news to start Day 40: The weather significantly improved today! The thick haze and high smoke levels from the Canadian wildfires, which hit us yesterday finally began to dissipate, offering much clearer skies for our journey.
Mapping the Ride
Today’s course, a 65.7-mile journey, was a thoughtful path designed to keep us off major highways. It took us on a scenic tour, exiting Midland and heading southwest on quiet roads through agricultural lands. We passed just north of Hemlock before making a significant navigation point, where the route took a definitive, structured turn directly southward.
The profile was a tale of two rides; the first two-thirds of the journey as relatively flat, allowing us to move at a good pace. The final third of the route, however, was characterized by a long, gradual ascent, testing our resolve as we made the final climb into the historic railroad town of Durand. Our team completed the day with an average moving time of approximately 4 hours and 17 minutes.
Starting Off on The Tridge
We couldn’t have asked for a better start than our departure from Midland. The team began the morning by riding across The Tridge. This unique, three-way bridge spans the confluence of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers in Chippewa Riverside Park.
It was the perfect kickoff to a day that featured a delightful change of scenery.
Miles of Trails and Paths
One of the highlights of the route was the abundant infrastructure. We were treated to several extended sections of designated bike paths and recreational trails. These paths were prominent in the first half of the day, particularly between Hemlock and the outskirts of our final approach.
These paved paths not only provided safe separation from motorized traffic but also added an element of fun and discovery to the journey, allowing us to focus on the pleasant rhythm of our pedals and the beauty of the surrounding environment.
Racing the Rain in Durand
The improved weather conditions held just long enough. Although the skies grew darker as we neared our destination, the esprit de corps of our riders remained high as we completed our final push into Durand. We are happy to report that all riders arrived at the host location and finished the day before a substantial rainstorm hit. Timing is everything!
Transitions and Farewells
Every day on the adventure is dynamic, and today marked several transitions for our group.
Early in the route, we said goodbye to Mark Kinzer’s two friends — Kurt and Phil — who had been riding with us on recumbent trikes. We thoroughly enjoyed their company and unique perspective on the road, and we wish them well.
Today was also a particularly meaningful day as we bid a grateful farewell to Brent Beeley. Today was Brent’s final day riding with the group after joining us for the last two weeks. His contributions to the team and his wonderful sense of humor made a big impression on us all. Two weeks fly by quickly when you’re moving cross-country, and while we will miss him on the road, we thank him for all the miles and the positive spirit he shared.
Support Our Build!
Our ride continues, but our mission remains clear: working to end Poverty Housing. Please consider supporting the Fuller Center’s fundraising goal!
we love Our sponsors!
we love Our sponsors!
