In Memory of Warmer Summers

June 9 to Rockport, WA

We set off today from the western launching point of the Northern Tier in Anacortes.  More typical of the climate in the Pacific Northwest, we contend with some rain, but that is expected as we move into the Cascade Mountains.  Arriving at our next camping spot in Rockport and getting something to eat at a tavern close by, I have a completely unexpected “small world” moment.  Meet Ryan Conaughty:

The ride being fairly flat, putting in 64 miles was not that taxing (translated to mean our brains still functioned somewhat well, but food is needed as always).  At the tavern there is a fellow leaving, easily spotted as a cyclist by his choice of loose-fitting gym shorts and the playful nature as he says goodbye to the patrons.  They are treating him like a celebrity, so it’s easy to assume he’s let them in on his plans to ride the Northern Tier.  As he heads for the door, he mentions he’s from Rochester, New York and my brain engages suddenly thinking, “Can this be who I think it is?”.

Turning the knob, someone shouts out, “Take care Ryan, it’s a pleasure meeting you.”

I freeze the departing cyclist with a loud and enthusiastic, “WAIT!”  Are you Ryan…and then as always, I stumble on his last name.

“Conaughty” he says and I almost fall over.  Thrusting out my hand, I introduce myself and it’s a mutual shock to us both to run into each other like this.  Ryan is on his Day One of the Northern Tier as well.  We spend the evening going over “touring” and life events and how the two are so closely interrelated.

Ryan authored a journal on Crazyguyonabike.com eight years ago titled “Trans Am Blues” and it was one of the most fascinating reads I’ve ever encountered from a young writer.  Speaking with Ryan fairly quickly I catch on that the Trans America tour he accomplished then had a profound effect on him and we somewhat awkwardly compared notes as my tour five years ago from Florida to Oregon had been a life-changing event for me as well.

Ryan’s current work is also on Crazyguy under the title “Northern Blues”.  Trans Am Blues and Northern Blues can be found using the search function under his name on Crazyguyonabike.com. I couldn’t recommend a stronger read, but offer one caution:  buckle your chin strap because he will transport you in a way you may not be prepared for.

Keep riding Ryan.  What you seek can be found out here.