Cyclist's 11,000-mile journey to deliver Super Bowl game ball to Seattle: A testament to endurance and determination
Bond Almand, an ultra-endurance cyclist, is on a mission to deliver the Super Bowl game ball to Seattle by riding 11,000 miles across the United States. This journey is not just a physical feat but also a testament to Almand's determination and passion for cycling. With a specially made Trek bike weighing 16 pounds stripped down and about 31 pounds with his full traveling kit, Almand is ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
Almand's journey began in Miami, where he got a flat tire 20 miles into his trip, setting the tone for the challenges he would face along the way. Despite this setback, he continued his journey, riding through the eastern United States and reaching Green Bay and Lambeau Field on the morning of August 11. Almand's route was not always the most efficient, as he chose to ride from Dallas to Kansas City instead of to Nashville, which would have been quicker, because he liked how the route wound around.
Almand's journey is sponsored by Extreme Networks, a company that designs, develops, and manufactures wired and wireless network infrastructure equipment and software. Extreme works with several NFL teams, including the Seattle Seahawks and Green Bay Packers, which meant Almand got a decent welcome at Lambeau Field. In some places, the best he could do was wave and take a photo as he rode by, such as at Met Life Stadium in New Jersey, home to the Giants and Jets.
Almand's journey is not just a physical feat but also a testament to his determination and passion for cycling. He admits that after a year of school, he wasn't in the best condition to begin this ride, but he rode himself into shape. He averages 17 to 21 miles per hour and 200 miles a day, although he faces several 250-mile days on his coming route from Minneapolis to Denver. To keep that going, he consumes about 10,000 calories a day, which requires him to sometimes eat after he can't take another bite.
Almand's journey is not without its challenges. He has faced a tornado watch in Oklahoma, a couple of thunderstorms, and was twice pelted with hail. He was also concerned for a time about the heavy Canadian wildfire smoke in the Midwest, which would have forced him to dismount for days. However, Almand's determination and passion for cycling have helped him overcome these challenges.
Almand's journey is not just a physical feat but also a testament to his adventurous spirit. He travels alone, listening to podcasts, music, and the occasional audio book, and keeping a sharp eye out for motor vehicles, which could mean a quick end to everything. He has also been joined by other riders for short distances at times, and when he crosses the western deserts, he'll have a chase car with plenty of water.
Almand's journey will be auctioned at the end of the ride for charity, and his travels to every stadium can be followed online at bondextremejourney.com. This journey is not just a physical feat but also a testament to Almand's determination, passion for cycling, and adventurous spirit.
