Pedal the Parks: Halfway Milestone

It has been almost three (3) weeks since I have ridden my unicycle. Vacation, a family reunion, and work have prevented me from my "Pedal the Parks" progress. The last four (4) parks were ridden on our way to South Dakota for our vacation. All aspects of the vacation were great, even the weather. Many stories were told, many meals were shared, many games of cribbage were played, many drinks were consumed, and much support was displayed for Patty and my mission for Meniere's research. We were also able to ride the unicycle in our "first" National Park, bicycle on much of the Mickelson Trail, hike a couple of nice peaks in the Black Hills, and visit many tourist attractions.

The 46th park was ridden in Frank Gotch State Park in Humboldt, Iowa. It was a nice paved roadway and presented few challenges.

The 47th park, Wanata State Park, had a few challenges. The park was very small and had NO paved roads. I managed to record a mile by riding on the "bad" gravel road and accessing a city street that bordered the park.

The next park that we attempted to ride was Indian Village, in Sutherland Iowa. Although it is on my list of State Parks, it no longer exists. Years ago, the land was sold to an individual, and it has been transformed into a private residence. Why it is still listed as a park, no one seems to know. A substitute park will be ridden, to keep my numbers accurate.

Park #48, Mill Creek, had many challenges and became a milestone in our "Pedal the Parks" venture. There was a trail around the park's lake, but it varied from "bad" asphalt, to dirt, to grass, to gravel. None of these surfaces are kind to a unicyclist, regardless of age or talent. But, since we were there, and we were on a mission, we proceeded to complete the task. At the half mile point, Patty and I high-fived and celebrated. We had now reached the half-way point of our challenge, 47.5 miles completed of the 95 miles committed.

The 49th park was ridden in Oak Grove State Park in Hawarden, Iowa. The ride was completed, but not without a challenge. Early in the ride, the saddle of my unicycle broke. It did not prevent me from finishing the ride, but it presented some balancing issues that I had to overcome.

While in South Dakota, I was able to acquire a new saddle and seat post. I was also able to ride a mile in the Badlands National Park. Although this is not part of our original challenge, it may present an avenue to continue our quest to raise money for Meniere's Research by "Pedaling the Parks."

Thanks much to all those who have contributed to our "Burkey's Vision of Hope" fund. Please find it in your hearts to continue to do so.