Knowing when to say when. - Cross Country Velocipede Adventure - CycleBlaze

May 4, 2023

Knowing when to say when.

Heart says push on, knee says otherwise

I have to end the trip of a lifetime. To say I’m devastated seems like a gross understatement. I don’t really have the words to describe my disappointment. I know the knee injury is out of my control, but there’s this nagging thought that if I just push on, maybe it would work itself out. I’m old enough to know that’s almost certainly not how things would go. As my wife pointed out, even if I were to take several days off, most likely the first hill would bring back the pain, as I really need several weeks off. It’s frustrating because I’m not new at this. I’ve toured before, I train every day on my road bike. I’ve been a serious cyclist for 20 years. I have to assume it’s the massive weight difference of the bike, the extreme elevation gains, and if I’m honest, maybe weak knees. I’m sure there’s a problem with my pedaling geometry as it’s a little different than my road bike. It’s amazing how such a small difference could create such big problems over time. 

I would like to thank everyone who spent the time reading this journal. I can’t help but feel I’ve let a few people down, but I know most people are very supportive and understanding. All in all I was able to tour the beautiful state of Virginia and that’s not something I would have ever done without my TransAmerica attempt. 408 miles and almost 21,000 feet of elevation gain and my trip is over.

Brian out.

Heart 3 Comment 3
David HendersonBrian
You are an inspiration. I retired two years ago and am starting the Transamerica on May 10th, also going east to west. Part excitement, part fear. I am not getting any younger so I am going to give it a try.
Dave
Reply to this comment
1 year ago
Brian ScottTo David HendersonThanks so much, Dave. Your comment means a lot. I wish you the very best on your trip! I too was beside myself with apprehension as I got closer to the departure date. You’re at a great age to give it a go! I pray you stay healthy and know it’s not all unicorns and rainbows! Man there are some challenges, but also so much beauty. I have to say, the other touring cyclists you will inevitably encounter are some of the best people you will ever meet.
Best of luck,
Brian
Reply to this comment
1 year ago
Michelle SummersHey Brian! I’m a little late to the party and am just learning of your cancelled journey. I’m so sorry! Can I just say that getting old sucks (but it’s better than the alternative…😅 Can I get an Amen?) Your tenacity and determination is nothing but inspiring. Please don’t give it a single thought that some would be disappointed “in” you. That would be impossible to feel. Many will feel disappointment alongside you as we know how important this bucket-list adventure meant to you, and our hearts ache with yours. I’m so thankful you have an amazing supportive and wise wife. What a blessing it is to have a partner who gets us and loves us through the good and the bad. Let me close with this: God’s got you and He’ll be faithful to complete all that He has begun in you. Sending you lots of love!
Your Twin Oaks alum and lifelong friend,
Mish-Mash
Reply to this comment
1 year ago
Rate this entry's writing Heart 5
Comment on this entry Comment 6
Olivia ScottEveryone is proud of you!! Plus now you get to be back with your family for Survivor night.
Reply to this comment
1 year ago
Brian ScottForget the trip, it’s you we have to be so proud of. That’s the real accomplishment. For all who don’t know, this is my wonderful daughter.
Reply to this comment
1 year ago
Dan CorningI'm sorry your trip ended the way it did and wish you a speedy recovery. I was enjoying your daily posts and can understand your disappointment. Last year I had to abandon my tour when a back issue forced me to call it quits early in my trip. I plan on giving it another go this summer and hope that you will be able to continue your trip sometime in the future.
Best of luck to you.
Dan
Reply to this comment
1 year ago
Brian ScottThank you Dan for your kind words. It’s a real bummer when our bodies give out before our motivation to continue.
Thanks for following along. It means a lot.

Brian
Reply to this comment
1 year ago
Lorna GlaspeyAh Brian, what a bummer. But look at all the beautiful country you got to see. The new friends you made. What memories you have to cherish. You did great.
Love to you, Lorna
Reply to this comment
1 year ago
Brian ScottThanks, Lorna. It was a real bummer but I plan to heal for a few weeks, make some changes to my bike setup and get back out there. Not cross-country, but the Pacific Coast Bike Route from Astoria to San Francisco.
Reply to this comment
1 year ago