On day 9, we crossed the Colorado River into Arizona.
The ride was cut short day's because of Tom's worsening back pain. A call was placed to Tom's old friend, Ron Cornelison, who took pity on us to drive the 5 hr round trip to pick us up and drive us, our bikes, and all our bags (or so we thought).
Upon returning to Ron's house in Scottsdale, we realized two bags were inadvertently left at the truck stop where we had been picked up. After a couple phones to be sure the bags were secure, we rented a car to retrieve the bags the following day.
The trip back for the bags gave us opportunity to discuss our options in light of Tom's worsening back problem. After all the time and energy plus the commitment to La Reserva to raise funds, this was one of the most agonizing decisions that we ever had to make. We looked at several options including using the rental car as a support vechile and take turns riding. After much difficulty, and considering the limited options, we sadly decided to terminate the ride. We have packed our bikes in our rental car and wll begin our trip home, tomorrow, April 4.
By not completing the ride, we are very disappointed. Tom especially regretes not being able to complete the ride because of the commitment that was the premise for raising over $2400 for La Reserva Forest Foundation. FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO WERE KIND ENOUGH TO DONATE MONEY FOR THIS FUNDRAISER, I SINCERELY APOLOGIZE. IF ANYONE WOULD LIKE THEIR MONEY BACK, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME AT Gringillotom@GMAIL.COM.
This will be our last post.
I was impressed by your courage in attempting this ride, particularly when I learned of the back pain Tom had been dealing with. I'm sorry to see that your dream of riding across the country has not been realized, but want to applaud your effort.
ReplyDeleteMy hats off to you guys for trying to do something that most of us would be afraid to try. You gotta have Big Kanunas to even think about doing this.
ReplyDeleteHope to see you for a cold one when you get back
I am so sorry, Jeff and Tom! I know you both had your hearts set on the adventure. I'm sure you have discussed other alternatives to achieving your goal, and I know La Reserva would not want Tom to put himself in danger for them. My hats off to you for the idea, and/but I am glad you will make it home safely. Love you!
ReplyDeleteOh, you guys are my heroes. Thank you so much for your courageous effort because that's what counts. I worried about you both daily as you traversed the Mojave Desert and you made it.
ReplyDeletePlease don't ever feel that you've failed. You have done an amazing thing, many people are now aware of LRFF that weren't before and, well, I don't hear anyone asking for their donations back.
It ain't the bike trip it's the trees and our Mother Earth. I love you both, thank you and God bless you. Enjoy your road trip home! <:D