First Century Ride
On August 1st, 2024, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure—the Marquette to Grand Marais leg of the Tour Da Yoop. This wasn’t just any bike ride; it was my very first century ride, spanning 107.4 miles through the breathtaking landscapes of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The experience, which took over seven and a half hours to complete, filled me with an sense of accomplishment. I was pushing myself beyond my limits especially at mile 50 when I experienced my first leg cramp. Throughout the ride , I was surrounded by the kind of beauty that only the Upper Peninsula could offer.
The route from Marquette to Grand Marais was a dream for any cyclist. The majesty of the landscape, the air fresh and crisp as we rode through areas dotted with unique landmarks. Every now and then, a view of Lake Superior would catch my eye, its vast, awe-inspiring presence reminding me of the magnitude of the journey. But this wasn’t just about the ride—it was part of something bigger. The Tour Da Yoop was a fundraiser to fight childhood cancer, adding a layer of purpose to every pedal stroke. Knowing we were riding for a cause made the effort all the more meaningful.
Mackinac Bridge - Connecting Upper and Lower Michigan
A special part of this journey was that I wasn’t doing it alone. One of my riding partners, Edd Zomerman, has been by my side for decades. Edd and I grew up together, best friends since childhood, and here we were, once again. Most of my happy childhood memories include Edd by my side. Edd had already completed several century rides so my strategy was to follow his lead. His steady presence kept me motivated during those moments when I wasn’t sure I could make it to the finish line. There’s something comforting about riding alongside someone who knows you so well, sharing the ups and downs of the race—literally and figuratively.
The route itself was as challenging as it was beautiful. Rolling hills tested our endurance, but every climb was rewarded with sweeping descents and stunning views. There were moments where exhaustion set in, but the camaraderie on the road was palpable. Riders exchanged smiles, nods of encouragement, and even shared snacks to keep each other going. It was a reminder that, though each of us had our individual goals, we were all in this together.
Grand Haven
Crossing that finish line in Grand Marais was a surreal moment. The overwhelming sense of accomplishment—knowing I had completed my first century ride—was unlike anything I had ever felt before. It wasn’t just about the miles or the time; it was about the journey, the training, the cause, and the people I shared it with.
Looking back now, I realize that this ride was more than just a physical challenge. It was a testament to friendship, perseverance, and the beauty of pushing yourself beyond your limits. I’m already looking forward to next year’s Tour Da Yoop, but this ride from Marquette to Grand Marais will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a memory that will stick with me forever, a ride I’ll never forget.
Water Break with Edd and Tim
