Cyclist Bond Almand is on a mission to deliver the Super Bowl game ball to Seattle, but this isn't your average delivery. He's embarked on an extraordinary journey, pedaling his way across the United States, covering a staggering 11,000 miles by bicycle. This ambitious endeavor is not just about the distance; it's a testament to Almand's dedication, endurance, and unique approach to travel.
Almand's journey began in Miami, where he encountered an early challenge, getting a flat tire just 20 miles into his quest. Undeterred, he set off on a winding path across the eastern United States, embracing the adventure and the unexpected. His route wasn't always the most direct, as he prioritized scenic routes over efficiency, such as his detour from Dallas to Kansas City.
This journey is a personal challenge for Almand, who, at 22, is a recent graduate from Dartmouth University with degrees in government, climate science, and environmental studies. He found himself in this endeavor through a chance conversation with a Dartmouth grad who works for Extreme Networks, the company sponsoring his adventure. Despite his academic background, Almand admits he wasn't in peak physical condition when he started, but he rode himself into shape.
The plan is to reach Seattle on September 9th, in time for the season-opening game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. Almand's route takes him west to east, a decision influenced by the prevailing winds and the fact that Seattle, not New England, won the previous Super Bowl. His specially designed Trek bike, weighing around 31 pounds with its full traveling kit, is a testament to his dedication and preparation.
Almand's journey is not without its challenges. He averages 200 miles a day, with some days reaching 250 miles, and consumes approximately 10,000 calories daily to sustain his energy. He often relies on gas station food, with Kwik Trip in Wisconsin being a notable exception for its quality offerings. Most of the time, he travels alone, listening to podcasts and audiobooks, but he occasionally joins other riders for short distances.
Weather is a constant companion on this journey. Almand has faced a tornado watch in Oklahoma, thunderstorms, and hailstorms, proving that Mother Nature can be unpredictable. He also had to navigate through heavy Canadian wildfire smoke in the Midwest, a challenge that would have forced him to dismount for days. However, this is not his first major cycling adventure. He holds the record for the fastest time from Alaska to Argentina, completing the journey in just 75 days.
Almand's bike, painted in Extreme Networks' purple, will be auctioned at the end of his journey for charity. His travels can be followed online at bondextremejourney.com. This extraordinary journey is not just about delivering a game ball; it's a testament to human determination, the beauty of travel, and the power of embracing the unexpected.
