Cycle Across America by Julia and Paula

This is an extract from Julia and Paula’s blog who have been cycling with the team for the past two weeks. It’s their last day today.

16/6/25
Destination: Cody, Wyoming.
Miles: 51.03
Total Miles Cycled: 474.34

Title: The 10 percenters.

Setting off on our final ride of the trip, having completed 423.22 miles, we realised that after today we would have covered just 10% of the total distance that Alison, John, Caroline and Paul are completing on their epic challenge. So at this point Marianne, Steve and the two of us became known as the “10 Percenters”. It really brought home to us the enormity of the challenge for the rest of the team, who still have another 3000+ miles to go.

On our final ride to Cody, we were expecting a quick 50 miles downhill, anticipating to arrive by lunchtime. As always, this didn’t go quite to plan with a strong headwind making the downhill feel like an uphill. It also transpired that Mondays = shops and cafes are closed. On our third attempt to find a stop for lunch, we pulled into the Neighbourhood Grill and Bar, only to discover it was also closed. To our delight, the owner appeared from behind closed doors. She seemed intrigued to see us but offered muffins, water and the opportunity to visit the restroom. As usual, we were overwhelmed by the generosity of those that we’ve met.

On arrival, discovering a minor blip of our Air BnB already occupied by another party, Julia saved the day by sourcing another property within minutes. The more energetic of the group headed off to a Rodeo, those less inclined (Paula, Julia, Alison and John), stayed in and did the Times Daily Quiz!

What a privilege it’s been to be a small part of Alison, John, Caroline and Paul’s big adventure. We’ve had a fantastic trip and made to feel very welcome and enjoyed every bit of their company (not so much the big hills).

During our trip it has been 10 years since Alison’s diagnosis of Parkinson’s, when she was advised that she would have 5-10 more active years ahead of her. However 10 years later, with numerous cycling challenges under her belt, including this latest incredible one, and more on the horizon, we recognise what an inspiration she is.

If you have enjoyed reading our blog and would like to support Alison and her team in raising money for The Cure Parkinson’s Trust, please visit the following link.

Signing off now for a well earned glass of wine.
Julia and Paula. XX