Wideen Ride

Chronicles of the 6,747 km cycling trip across Canada by two 65-year-young adventurers in the summer of 1999.

TRIP TRACKER

St. John's or Bust !!

Loretta and Marvin Wideen kicked off their retirement with a bike tour across Canada. A mere 6,750 kms (or so) from Mile 0 in Victoria, BC to Mile 0 in St. John's, Newfoundland. This bike ride had been a dream of theirs for years. They first planned to do this for their 61^st year, but work and timing meant their 66^th year would be it.

They dedicated their trip to schizophrenia (see Schizophrenia Society of Canada). If you are moved by their adventure, they would be pleased if you contributed to this society in the name of Wideen Ride. You can mail cheques or money orders to:

Wideen Ride
c/o Schizophrenia Society of Canada
75 The Donway West
Suite 814
Don Mills ON
M3C 2E9

READ THEIR SUMMARY

Trip Log

Chronology

May 1
Start @ Mile 0

Start @ Mile 0
May 1, 1999
Started in Victoria on Vancouver Island. Starting at Mile 0, cycled to the Schwartz Bay ferry terminal, and took ferry to Tsawassen. Loretta fell 4 times (twice in first two blocks) learning the pitfalls of clip-less pedals. Marv only fell once. Waiting for the next sunny day (and the bruises to subside) continued from Tsawassen Terminal to their home in Coquitlam. Found a wonderful pub under Patullo bridge when escaping rain, and was awed by the view from that bridge (they walked their bikes over the bridge). Kms: 48
May 9
Coquitlam

Coquitlam
May 9, 1999
Waiting for the next sunny day (and the bruises to subside) continued from Tsawassen Terminal to their home in Coquitlam. Found a wonderful pub under Patullo bridge when escaping rain, and was awed by the view from that bridge (they walked their bikes over the bridge). Kms: 48
May 19
Agassiz/Harrison

Agassiz/Harrison
May 19, 1999
The trip really began. They left Coquitlam, bound for Agassiz, and made it. Unfortunately, they couldn’t find a hotel so had to cycle back to Harrison for the night. Kms: 105
May 20
Hope

Hope
May 20, 1999
A short day, they were in Hope by 1pm. Kms: 40
May 21
Coquahalla Toll Booth

Coquahalla Toll Booth
May 21, 1999
They made the Coquahalla Highway toll booth, where Sandra (daughter) picked them up and took them to Merritt. The ride included walking around a tunnel (in the snow) and then walking up to the Coquahalla Summit (2244 meters). Exhaustion and gravely, narrow, pitted shoulders justified the walk, as did the fact that very section of the road is why Merritt has so many tow truck companies. Kms: 55
May 22
Merritt

Merritt
May 22, 1999
They elected to take a day off and pretend they were cycling from the toll booth to Merritt. The ride was mostly downhill and they didn’t feel like coasting (it’s hard on the brake hands). Kms: 63
May 23
Kamloops

Kamloops
May 23, 1999
A tough ride from Merritt to Kamloops on the old highway. Hot — 31 degrees! They ran out of water. Marvin had to hike down to a farm to refill. (He got some odd looks from kids who saw a skinny-legged man with a helmet crossing the field.) Kms: 95
May 24
Kamloops – rest day

Kamloops – rest day
May 24, 1999
A day of rest visiting Dennis (nephew). Kms: 0
May 25
Barrière

Barrière
May 25, 1999
Marvin had a flat tire today. That was when they discovered they had left their pump behind. Help came in the form of Lyle Fraser from Kinsula. Kms: 68
May 26
Clearwater

Clearwater
May 26, 1999
For the first time, they never walked a hill. And though tired, their bodies are recovering faster. Another flat (plus discovery of the staple that caused both flats). Marv is pleased that he is able to change the flats, even though he’s never done one before. He knew how from watching his Dad, to which Loretta writes “theory without practice can work.” Kms: 65
May 27
Avola

Avola
May 27, 1999
Hearing the road was quite flat from Clearwater to Avola they looked forward to an easy ride. Until they found a 3½ mile climb the kept them in their 21st gear the entire time! A chilly and tiring day. Hills were long but doable in their lowest gear, going down was cold. Kms: 65
May 28
Blue River

Blue River
May 28, 1999
Climbed the summit (at Little Hell’s Gate). Marv asks, “The hills are so long here. Besides, how do you have a summit along a river?” Vertical climb was 825 meters. Wind was so strong they sometimes had to pedal downhill. Kms: 40
May 29
Blue River – day off

Blue River – day off
May 29, 1999
Enjoyed a day off in Blue River. Kms: 0
May 30
Valemont

Valemont
May 30, 1999
Uneventful ride, did it in 6 hours. Loretta says, “Every day I find a new part of the body that can get sore.” Kms: 98
May 31
Mount Robson

Mount Robson
May 31, 1999
Quick ride to Mount Robson. Uneventful. Why am I even writing? Kms: 27
June 1
Jasper

Jasper
June 1, 1999
It was “raining like stink,” the roads were slippery and wet, the shoulders a mix of potholes and gravel, and trucks were flying by. For safety reasons, Marvin and Loretta opted to hitch a ride in a van to Jasper (paid the man $40). They were disappointed, looking forward to riding out of BC on a long hill, confident that hills were no longer barriers. But, they were anxious to keep going and were concerned for their safety. Kms: 90
June 2
Hinton

Hinton
June 2, 1999
Kms: 76
June 3
Edson

Edson
June 3, 1999
Hilly. A lot like BC hills. Otherwise an uneventful ride. Kms: 88
June 4
Entwistle

Entwistle
June 4, 1999
Sunny, wind at back, they went like stink and did 100 klicks in 4½ hours. Kms: 100
June 5
Edmonton

Edmonton
June 5, 1999
Rode sharp hills against the wind. On the approach to Edmonton they were spooked with all the highway exits and entrances. Kms: 103
June 6
Edmonton

Edmonton
June 6, 1999
Relaxing. Visiting Marvin’s niece Sharon in Edmonton. Kms: 0
June 7
Vegreville

Vegreville
June 7, 1999
They were caught in two rain storms. One they huddled under their tarp (keeping bike and themselves dry), the other they rode through — 10 kms of pelting rain into Vegreville. They were against the wind the whole way, a wind so strong they even peddled going downhill! Kms: 100
June 8
Vermilion

Vermilion
June 8, 1999
Nice conditions. They finished their ride in 4½ hours. They were quite sore, recovering from the tough ride to Vegreville. Thighs especially. Kms: 92
June 9
Lloydminster

Lloydminster
June 9, 1999
With the wind at their back it only took three hours. They decided not to ride on (another 3 hours), so enjoyed a nice meal (with wine) in Lloydminster. Prevailing winds are definitely easterly, 4 of 6 days they’ve had wind at their back. Kms: 60
June 10
Turtleford & Canwood

Turtleford & Canwood
June 10, 1999
They rode to Turtleford where Loretta’s brother Art Young (of Young’s Garage) picked them up and drove them to Canwood. 58 klicks by bike, 200 by truck. The trip would have taken another 3 days. This quick change of plan was so they could attend a funeral on Friday, June 11. Kms: 58 + 200
June 11
Canwood

Canwood
June 11, 1999
They enjoyed a respite from cycling, visiting friends and family in Canwood. They were also on hand to console relatives at the loss of a family member. As they spend days cycling, heaving in huge breaths of air into bodies crying for oxygen while at the same time not talking for hours on end, their vocal chords suffer from atrophy. Each evening and each morning they find their voice boxes reluctant to vibrate, and when they do speak find inflection difficult to achieve. Yet, for the first time they can remember, their family is actually more interested in listening to..Read More
June 14
Blaine Lake

Blaine Lake
June 14, 1999
Against the wind on flat roads they made Blaine Lake. They were very tired, suffering sore knees, questioning whether the 3 day break did them any good whatsoever. There was only one place to stay at Blaine Lake, luckily they had a room (though no phone, they called in from a pay phone). Mosquitoes are becoming more prevalent. Kms: 84
June 15
Saskatoon

Saskatoon
June 15, 1999
Despite wind, they had a nice ride into Saskatoon. They are now visiting long-time friends. People they knew when Marv was a teacher, Loretta was in her first nursing job (and nursing her first born), life was generally simpler, and people didn’t cycle across Canada for fun. Kms: 80
June 16
Saskatoon

Saskatoon
June 16, 1999
Visited in Saskatoon. Kms: 0
June 17
Viscount

Viscount
June 17, 1999
The “hardest kilometers done yet” they say, describing winds so hard they were almost knocked over. Much of the ride was spent in their hill-climbing gears. They stopped in Colonsay but couldn’t find a room, so rode another 20 kms to Viscount. Kms: 78
June 18
Lanigan

Lanigan
June 18, 1999
A new “hardest” day. Here they are, crossing Saskatchewan, the province in which they are born, the province noted for it’s flat terrain, and they are making less progress than they did in the dreaded Rockies! A driving, miserable wind — emphasis on miserable — combined with hot sun and a poor nights sleep stopped them early. Kms: 48
June 19
Wynyard

Wynyard
June 19, 1999
A new “hardest” day, with the wind coming from 2 o’clock. Trivia: prevailing winds are easterly on the prairies. This is something Marv and Loretta looked forward to, wind generally at their back. NOT! Took 7 hours to go 64 klicks! The shoulder was wide enough to ride abreast, so they took turns drafting the other (blocking the wind). Kms: 64
June 20
Foam Lake

Foam Lake
June 20, 1999
They decided in advance to have a short day. It was hard to stop, because the winds were light and travel was much easier. However, Loretta’s arm was sore from hanging onto her bike. Yesterday’s winds kept trying to push her over, gusting against her right side. Kms: 48
June 21
Theodore

Theodore
June 21, 1999
The winds still howl, making the trip to Theodore horrendous. Add two flat tires (bringing the total count to 5) and 28° heat, and again they had a relatively short day. The prairies continue to provide their most difficult cycling. Before embarking on the trip, they were looking forward to the prairie ride, confident that the prevailing winds would be at their back. While this seemed true 2 out of 3 days in Alberta, it has definitely not been the case in Saskatchewan. Their only relief came on the ride to Foam Lake when the wind was light. They had..Read More
June 22
Yorkton

Yorkton
June 22, 1999
A quicker ride with much less wind gave them plenty of time in Yorkton to resolve Marv’s frequent flat-tire problem. While no solution was found, they did replace the tubes, etc. They witnessed showers but weren’t rained on until in Yorkton. Those familiar with prairie skies know that while you may see rain you don’t necessarily experience it. Loretta got a haircut. A short haircut. I have visions of a bald 65-year-old woman cycling across the prairies, but then she’d be wearing a helmet and that ruins the picture. Kms: 45
June 23
Russell Manitoba

Russell Manitoba
June 23, 1999
A much better day. For the last 20 klicks, the wind was at their back. No flat tires. They “flew.” Kms: 101
June 24
Minnedosa

Minnedosa
June 24, 1999
With the wind at their back, they broke a personal best in just 7 hours cycling. It was exhilarating. They are tired, but feeling good. They are staying in a place built around a pool and hot tub. As they watch kids having fun, they thought of their grandkids. Sandra (remember her, the daughter who phones radio stations about the ride and invites the DJ for a hot tub?) asked her Dad if he was still excited about the trip (Aunt Millie had asked). He said, “We’re determine to finish the trip.” Does this mean they’re not as excited anymore?..Read More
June 25
Minnedosa

Minnedosa
June 25, 1999
Well, not much progress today. What can you say about rest? I boldly predicted they would make Ontario by Canada Day. So what do they do? Take a day off. Did someone talk to them and tell them about my prediction? Are they doing this just to prove me wrong? As the oldest, I’ve always had it tougher. Do I hear violins? Kms: 0
June 26
Gladstone

Gladstone
June 26, 1999
Nice day riding. They stopped just as the wind started to pick up. They are staying in a 112 year-old hotel. It is run by Ida, who checked them in, cooked dinner, cooked breakfast, and even carried one of the bikes up the stairs to their room. She was amazing, and the hotel was marvelous. Kms: 71
June 27
Portage la Prairie

Portage la Prairie
June 27, 1999
Easy kilometers. They ambled. Loretta sounded ecstatic about the virtual absence of wind — even when it’s at their back the noise bothers her. Her one complaint was the lack of paved shoulders in Manitoba. They are on the #1, a 4-lane highway, but it has no paved shoulder. So, they ride in the right lane. Luckily, though the traffic is fairly heavy, the drivers are excellent, giving them a wide berth. Only once when a truck was unable to switch lanes was there a problem, and he warned them with a horn blast so they were able to move..Read More
June 28
Winnipeg

Winnipeg
June 28, 1999
Roads were poor, and it got crazy as they approached Winnipeg. But, John Wiens (their Winnipeg host) supplied them with an alternate route so they were able to get off the #1. Kms:83
June 29
Winnipeg

Winnipeg
June 29, 1999
Stayed with John Wiens and family (graduate student at SFU, but also superintendent of Seven Oaks School District). Marvin worked on comprehensive exams. Took both bikes for a thorough checkup. Marvin got a new back tire (maybe no more flats). Kms: 0
June 30
Richer

Richer
June 30, 1999
Pretty easy ride. They feel they have toughened up (’bout time Sandra says). Richer is the Longitudinal center of Canada. Too bad it’s not halfway as the cycler rides. Kms: 61
July 1
Falcon Lake

Falcon Lake
July 1, 1999
Poor weather, between misty and light rain. Midway through the ride, they took 1½ hours off in a nice restaurant drying off. Falcon Lake is a beautiful spot. Kms:87
July 2
Kenora

Kenora
July 2, 1999
Another beautiful spot. They arrived in Kenora and were served both by the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and Ben Koch at Christoph’s Kneipe, a pub and restaurant on Main Street. (They were impressed someone had arranged for an orchestra to celebrate their arrival. They enjoyed the show. If you see them, please don’t let on that the presence of the orchestra was a coincidence.) As for Ben Koch, he works a Christoph’s. He brought them into Christoph’s and fed them a hearty German meal. They weren’t sure they were going to stop in Kenora, but Ben made that decision easy. Kms:..Read More
July 3
Kenora

Kenora
July 3, 1999
They stayed and enjoyed Kenora. A wind from the SE plus threats of thunderstorms didn’t seem very appealing, especially when their bodies were screaming “Give me a rest!” Kms: 0
July 4
Vermilion Bay

Vermilion Bay
July 4, 1999
Marv says, “Cyclers hate rain, road construction, wind in their face, hills and roads with no shoulders. We got all today. Despite that, we made 98 kilometers.” Not much more I can say. They have entered the Pre-Cambrian Shield. In fact, they’ve entered the hilly part. As they’ve experienced throughout their trip, the hoteliers along the way are extremely friendly and helpful. In Vermilion Bay, it was Paul and Teri of the North Side Hotel, who actually lent their car so Marvin and Loretta could drive to breakfast in the rain. Kms: 98
July 5
Dryden

Dryden
July 5, 1999
They cycled in rain through “constant hills” that reawakened their hill-climbing muscles. The scenery is incredible, something I’m sure they find easy to see at the speed they’re going! Highway shoulders are wide, but the drivers are less patient. Kms: 46
July 6
Ignace

Ignace
July 6, 1999
A good day cycling. Marvin broke a new record for top speed on the trip. On this day he knew he had a chance at their old record, and he went for it. Without looking back to see if Loretta was pacing him or shaking her head apprehensively as he sought his holy grail, confident of his own ability to control the bicycle in less than ideal conditions, he coasted to the dizzying speed of 47 kph! Can you image? A lesser man would have stopped at 45. To quote Marvin, “I set a new speed record today. 46 kilometers..Read More
July 7
Upsala

Upsala
July 7, 1999
Another good day. They awoke too tired to cycle, but set out anyway. With the wind at their back, they made good time. The roads were better, shoulders wider, they were often passing lanes on hills, which themselves weren’t as steep. Still, they ended up on gravel shoulders four times getting out of the way of trucks, but never really felt in peril. Kms: 110
July 8
Shabaqua Falls

Shabaqua Falls
July 8, 1999
They encountered some serious hills, slowing them down. No other news, so I’ll stop typing. Kms: 75
July 9
Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay
July 9, 1999
They started in rain and ended in rain. The got very wet. They met some people from Thunder Bay Schizophrenia Society in Kakabeka Falls, under pleasant weather conditions. Once in Thunder Bay, they brought their bikes to a bike shop, where their bikes were cleaned up (bikes were looking pretty scummy), Marvin got a better tire, and they rotated Loretta’s tires. Helen (President) and Claudette (Treasurer) of the Thunder Bay Schizophrenia Society literally hosted them in Thunder Bay, helping them find a bike shop, helping with the press, putting the up in a hotel, and feeding them. They also made..Read More
July 10
Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay
July 10, 1999
They spent the day in Thunder Bay. Marvin received another package (delivered to a jewelry store — it’s a long story), and was able to spend the day reading student papers while Loretta cavorted around town. Kms: 0
July 11
Boote’s home

Boote’s home
July 11, 1999
They stopped and visited the brother of one of Marv’s students outside Thunder Bay. So Boote’s house is not actually a town (I couldn’t find it on Mapquest). The Bootes breed and train English Setters. Anyway, Loretta and Marv were treated royally and enjoyed a relaxing day. Kms: 29
July 12
Nipigon

Nipigon
July 12, 1999
28° and humid doesn’t make for the most pleasant riding. By the end of the day, Loretta began to feel a little nauseous. But the roads were good, shoulders generally wide enough. Loretta also learned a new skill: dropping from paved shoulder to gravel to allow traffic by, then getting back up. Impressed Marvin a great deal. Especially given that Loretta’s only fall has been on gravel, and she hates gravel! Marvin is still reading student papers. Kms: 80
July 13
Gravel River

Gravel River
July 13, 1999
48 kilometers in pouring rain, they decided to stop at a small motel on the highway when their feet starting to go “squish-squish.” The motel included a cafe and a CAN-OP gas station, and was run by a woman who was 9 months pregnant, expecting “any time.” They were incredibly grateful for the stop which proved very comfortable. They couldn’t phone home, however, because the cell was out of range, the only phone was in the cafe which was closed when they went to use it, and the phone booth outside was empty. A highlight for Marv and Loretta was..Read More
July 14
Terrace Bay

Terrace Bay
July 14, 1999
BC has nothing on the hills along the highway in Ontario. “Straight up,” Marvin says. They spent at least 15 kms today in their lowest gear virtually pushing the bicycle up 7% grade hills. More encounters with their brethren coast-to-coasters. They met Coyote Kevin, a man running across Canada hoping to be in St. Johns on New Years Eve. And, they met John Ryan, a paraplegic cycler riding a modified bike featuring 3 wheels and hand pedals. John is raising money for spinal chord research, and is accompanied by Tom and Sam (who cycle) and by his father (in a..Read More
July 15
Marathon

Marathon
July 15, 1999
Killer hills, bright sun, humidity not bad. They are feeling pretty good about their day and their progress. Somewhere in the last few days I believe they have passed the halfway mark. Don’t know where that is exactly, so let’s say it was Terrace Bay (then the phrase rhymes. Kms: 78
July 16
White River

White River
July 16, 1999
Hills weren’t so bad today. But, Loretta fell. Her gears jammed and she couldn’t get out of her pedals in time to provide the fall. She was rather put out by the whole thing, and a little shaken up. They are staying in the town where Winnie the Pooh was created. There’s a statue and everything. Kms: 94
July 17
White River

White River
July 17, 1999
They rested for the day. Both spoke of how exhausted they felt, and took a cue from their bodies and relaxed in White River. The highlight: Winnie the Pooh (and Tigger too). Statues, museums. The town has done a great job showing off their most famous citizen. Kms: 0
July 18
White River

White River
July 18, 1999
They rested another day. Their bodies told them so. Kms: 0
July 19
Wawa

Wawa
July 19, 1999
Ojibwa name for Wild Goose. Fairly easy ride with rolling hills and sun beating down on them. They are not tired. Kms: 94
July 20
Montreal River

Montreal River
July 20, 1999
Into a light wind, they managed one of the hillier regions in the Lake Superior area. It was hot. A really heavy day. Their hardest day since Kamloops in terms of difficulty. Loretta seemed to suffer in the heat, but was recovering nicely in the cabin they were staying in. A nice rustic place, no phones though. They are happy that they will soon be through the Lake Superior region. Kms: 107
July 21
Heyden

Heyden
July 21, 1999
They cycled through incredible beautiful scenery, but in 33° heat. They had a meeting with some press folk scheduled for Thursday in Sault Ste. Marie, so were anxious to get there. Loretta in particular was starting to feel the heat (she’s never liked heat). But they pressed on, until Loretta was overcome. For the last while, they were stopping about every 1/2 hour. Then, after one rest, it was clear they should stop. They were at a rest site, and were driven into Heyden by Holly Hughes, Jewell Browne and Bailey. Kms: 83 + 20 In Holly’s own words (she..Read More
July 22
Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie
July 22, 1999
Uneventful. Kms: 16
July 23
Estok

Estok
July 23, 1999
Strong headwinds, bad roads and rain all made the day interesting. But with the overcast it was a break from the heat which they’ve found is the worst weather condition to cycle in. They went for a little walk around the town and became separated. Marvin set out to look for Loretta, wondering whether or not the separation was planned. Togetherness is great, but 24 hours a day 7 days a week? It’s a question I think we should save for when they return. They’ve discovered cycling on Fridays afternoons in the summer is not a good thing. Everyone is..Read More
July 24
Spanish

Spanish
July 24, 1999
They stopped early because it was too hot. When they got settled into their room, the sky went black, there was thunder, lightning, and a huge dump of rain. They keep bumping into the Widfords (Dad Widford and Son Widford), who are re-creating the cross-Canada trip they took 46 years ago. Dad was 32 back then, son was 2. That’s right, that’ll make Dad 78 today! Kms: 76
July 25
Whitefish

Whitefish
July 25, 1999
Roads are unfriendly in this neck of the woods. Very narrow shoulders, if they exist. But, a cool front has moved in, leaving Marv and Loretta among the few in Ontario happy with the weather (overcast and cool)! While there is a thunderstorm warning, so far they’ve not been caught in one. Kms: 89
July 26
Sudbury

Sudbury
July 26, 1999
Easy ride. Uneventful. Kms: 35
July 27
Sudbury

Sudbury
July 27, 1999
A day of rest. Actually, not that much rest. They appeared twice on MCTV and interviewed with the Sudbury Star. Plus met with local schizophrenia contacts among others. So, while a break from cycling, they had to handle their responsibilities as celebrities. They were on their bikes a little for the TV news. Loretta fell once while getting off her bike. They chose not to broadcast that. Kms: 0
July 28
Sturgeon Falls

Sturgeon Falls
July 28, 1999
A little rain, but nice cool temperature. They wanted to make North Bay, but their bodies had other ideas, so they stopped. Kms: 87
July 29
North Bay

North Bay
July 29, 1999
A short day. They stopped in North Bay, met some press, decided to stay. Kms: 38
July 30
Mattawa

Mattawa
July 30, 1999
They arrived in Mattawa around noon and decided to stop. They were anxious to get out of the sun. Kms: 68
July 31
Rolphton

Rolphton
July 31, 1999
Rain, wind, hills and poor roads made for a difficult day. Narrow shoulders with sudden drops to gravel get scary. It’s a problem for motorists as well, or so they say in the local stations. Kms: 84
August 1
Cobden

Cobden
August 1, 1999
Lots of corn fields. Hence the name? Kms: 99
August 2
Ottawa

Ottawa
August 2, 1999
Perfect weather: cool, cloudy, no rain. The last 50k of their trip into Ottawa the highway traffic was heavy, so they headed onto local country roads. These led to the bike path the follows the river into Ottawa. For some reason they needed to stop frequently for directions. This confused me. Why stop for directions on a bike path that goes one way into the city you want to be in? Either it’s an excuse to stop, or the flesh is willing but the mind is weak! Actually, according to Loretta, there are forks in the path that lead you..Read More
August 3
Ottawa

Ottawa
August 3, 1999
Enjoying Ottawa. Visiting MPs’ offices (Lou Sekora and Svend Robinson). Neither were actually in Ottawa, but the staff treated Marvin and Loretta like celebrities. (Well, why not, they are!) At Lou Sekora’s office, Judy and Rosemary gave them a letter from Mr. Sekora, and printed off some of the web pages for handouts and did a bunch of photocopying. They also had their picture taken — one for Mr. Sekora, one for them. At Svend Robinson’s office, Eric (I sure hope I spelt your name right) gave them a warm welcome. They felt great after their visits. Of course, while..Read More
August 4
Ottawa

Ottawa
August 4, 1999
They rode to the parliament buildings for an event put on by the Schizophrenia Society. Again they were treated like royalty. I don’t have any details on the event itself, except that our brave couple enjoyed it and felt great. They even made it on TV (CPAC). More information from Mike and Maureen Cassi, who kindly provided an update in the Guestbook. Sounds like Ottawa treated them incredibly well. A two day break enjoying their celebrity status proved a great elixir. Digression begin. As I write the word elixir I wonder what it truly means. Tough to impress people with..Read More
August 5
Alfred

Alfred
August 5, 1999
It was slow going, mostly because Loretta was having trouble with her new chain. It kept jumping. They found a bike shop (Orleans Cycles). Mathieu and Denis were very helpful. Obvious to them, when changing the chain they should have changed the rear gear changer. Unfortunately, the shop was booked for work right through next Wednesday. But, kindness won out again, and they fixed Loretta’s bike on the spot, sending our skinny trekkers on their way. Thank-you Mathieu and Denis. Kms: 71
August 6
Lachute

Lachute
August 6, 1999
First day into Québec. Stopped early so Marv could participate in one of his student’s oral exam by phone. Kms: 57
August 7
Joliette

Joliette
August 7, 1999
They enjoyed the best roads, best weather and best traffic conditions in weeks. They are on a secondary highway cycling through the countryside, smelling manure, and riding through corn fields. Other differences: no motels on the highway, gas stations don’t sport restaurants, and signage directing them is sparse. And of course, French. Their smattering of French is getting them by, but barely. They are wishing their grandkids were there to help (they are all French immersion students). The highlight of the day was Laurentides. This is where Sir Wilfred Laurier spent his youth. They saw a play based on people..Read More
August 8
Joliette

Joliette
August 8, 1999
They rested. It was pouring rain and Marv had a couple student papers to review. Kms: 0
August 9
Trois-Rivières

Trois-Rivières
August 9, 1999
Horrendous wind from the side, but beautiful scenery. Kms: 80
August 10
Capsante

Capsante
August 10, 1999
They rode most of the day on an absolutely beautiful bike path along the St. Lawrence River. And when not on the path, the drivers who are used to cyclists show a lot of respect. They ambled along and talked to other cyclists. The weather was great. Despite Marv’s flat tire (punctured by glass, fixed in 20 minutes), it was their best day riding on the entire trip. They thoroughly enjoyed the day. The signs on the back of their bikes start plenty of conversations. Kms: 75
August 11
Québec City

Québec City
August 11, 1999
Weather is okay, nice bike shoulder, no problems with traffic, Loretta had a flat tire. Kms: 45
August 12
Montmagny

Montmagny
August 12, 1999
Our adventurers are feeling really good. Crossing the Québec City wasn’t as bad as the locals had suggested. They asked a fellow cyclist how to get to the ferry. He couldn’t explain well in English, so he simply led them there. He was very kind. Kms: 69
August 13
St. Jean Fort Joli

St. Jean Fort Joli
August 13, 1999
Headwind and tired. Kms: 32
August 14
St. Jean Fort Jolie

St. Jean Fort Jolie
August 14, 1999
Relaxed. Took a day off. It helped. Kms: 0
August 15
St. Andre

St. Andre
August 15, 1999
St. Andre is a quaint little town, surrounded by beautiful scenery along the St. Lawrence. However, to quote Loretta, they had “a vicious, sweeping, horrible wind” today. The area is quite flat. Kms: 69
August 16
St. Fabien

St. Fabien
August 16, 1999
Wind at the back, sunny weather, low traffic roads through a beautiful valley south of the St. Lawrence river made for a nice ride. But they were still sore from riding against the wind yesterday, so they decided to stop in St. Fabien. Kms: 92
August 17
Sainte-Slavie

Sainte-Slavie
August 17, 1999
“Pouring pouring pouring rain” stopped them short of their goal today. Kms: 59
August 18
Amqui

Amqui
August 18, 1999
“Grueling day” facing some steep grade hills along the Gaspé Peninsula into headwinds, very cold winds at the start of the day. Kms: 67
August 19
Campbellton New Brunswick

Campbellton New Brunswick
August 19, 1999
A long day that ended just across the border into New Brunswick. Kms: 94
August 20
Campbellton

Campbellton
August 20, 1999
A day of rest. Kms: 0
August 21
Bathurst

Bathurst
August 21, 1999
A nice easy ride with no wind, easy hills, low traffic, paved shoulders, overcast (so no beating sun), and rested legs. Beautiful ride with no buildings, just trees everywhere. They’re still happy to get off the bike, however. On their ride, they stop every 30 minutes or so, split a snack and have some water. Today it was powerbar, 2 apples and 4 muffins consumed. Kms: 101
August 22
Miramichi

Miramichi
August 22, 1999
Another nice day. Riding was pretty easy to start with, but the last half was quite hilly. “It’s just not fair,” says Loretta. They are being treated royally — dinner provided, press conference tomorrow, TV interview. They’re getting downright famous (hope they mention my name). Kms: 77
August 23
Kouchibouguac

Kouchibouguac
August 23, 1999
They spent the morning with the press and local Schizophrenia Society, then raced onto the next town in the afternoon to watch themselves on TV. They were treated like stars in Miramichi. Does it go to their heads? Not our humble adventurers (at least that’s what they say). Kms: 48
August 24
Shediac Bridge

Shediac Bridge
August 24, 1999
Not much news. They are staying at a scenic spot. Kms: 77
August 25
Bolden, PEI

Bolden, PEI
August 25, 1999
Rode to the bridge, and then were shuttled across the bridge to PEI. Kms: 79
August 26
Charlottetown

Charlottetown
August 26, 1999
A quick ride to Charlottetown, where they plan to spend a few days. Kms: 57
August 27
Charlottetown

Charlottetown
August 27, 1999
Lazing in PEI. Kms: 0
August 28
Charlottetown

Charlottetown
August 28, 1999
They did some riding, showing off to people and meeting press. We’ll count those klicks. Kms: 6
August 29
Pictou, Nova Scotia

Pictou, Nova Scotia
August 29, 1999
An easy ride to the ferry. Then the ferry to the next province. They’re feeling good. Cocky in fact. Kms: 74
August 30
Antigonish

Antigonish
August 30, 1999
Major hills. Up and down. “Nova Scotia is one big hill,” according to Marvin. They both find it exhausting. Though the hills aren’t as tough as around Lake Superior, they are constant. After yesterday, Marv implicitly felt as though it was downhill from her on in. But I guess that isn’t the case! I asked Loretta, “Did you really expect your last days to be easy?” Her answer, “Yes!” Kms: 85
August 31
Whycocomagh

Whycocomagh
August 31, 1999
I have 2 tired parents. They had a tough day with lots of hills and a strong wind often in their face. Sometimes, they had to pedal downhill just to keep a decent pace. They made 93 kms only because there was no other place to stop. Whycocomagh is a nice place on Bras d’Or Lake, a lake which occupies a big piece of Nova Scotia. Kms: 93
September 1
Baddeck

Baddeck
September 1, 1999
They took it easier today. Partly because the didn’t feel up to going another 60 klicks to Sydney. They needed a rest. The day was clear, sunny, gentle breeze and threw up easier hills. So, in all, a relaxing day. Baddeck is beautiful. Kms: 37
September 2
North Sydney

North Sydney
September 2, 1999
Bright sunny, clear, hot day. Loretta has had a bit of an upset stomach the last couple days, she thinks it’s the heat. However, they really enjoyed the ride. They weren’t looking forward to the trip, the locals were warning them about Kelly’s Mountain — a tough slog. But, they found the hills not to bad, the scenery just gorgeous, and the roads excellent. As for Kelly’s Mountain, it was a tough climb but the road was well engineered. They never got into their lowest gears, despite climbing 240m on a 7 km hill. Kms: 59
September 3
Argentia

Argentia
September 3, 1999
They spent most of the day in Sydney, then got on the ferry to Newfoundland. They are sitting with 40 other cyclists who also just completed the trip across Canada. They slept in a “dorm” on the ferry. Hardly a relaxing sleep. Kms: 0
September 4
Whitbourne

Whitbourne
September 4, 1999
They faced hard wind after a tiring night, so only made 47 kms. Their night was spent in a dorm on the ferry. Ferry noises, rocking boat, whispering around them, snoring, and lots of creaking made for a less than satisfactory sleep. They are tired. 80 kms to go. Rain, sleet, snow, wind, hills, nothing will stop them from making St. John’s tomorrow (after all, they can’t let me get there first). Kms: 47
September 5
St. John’s

St. John’s
September 5, 1999
They made it. A nice day riding. A lot of hills, but “nothing we couldn’t handle.” I (their #1 son) met them at the hotel at 2pm Newfoundland time. In other words, I won the race (and they had a huge head start!). Kms: 85

EXPAND CHRONOLOGY

Statistics

6358 Total Kms cycled
10 Flat tires (2 in a hotel room)
112 Days travelling
71 Average Kms cycling per day
9 Falls (2 Marv / 7 Loretta)

Wideen Ride

St. John's or Bust !!

Trip Log

Chronology

Logs by province

British Columbia

Alberta

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Ontario

Québec

New Brunswick

Prince Edward Island

Nova Scotia

Newfoundland and Labrador

Statistics

Wideen Ride

St. John's or Bust !!

Trip Log

Chronology

Start @ Mile 0

Coquitlam

Agassiz/Harrison

Hope

Coquahalla Toll Booth

Merritt

Kamloops

Kamloops – rest day

Barrière

Clearwater

Avola

Blue River

Blue River – day off

Valemont

Mount Robson

Jasper

Hinton

Edson

Entwistle

Edmonton

Edmonton

Vegreville

Vermilion

Lloydminster

Turtleford & Canwood

Canwood

Blaine Lake

Saskatoon

Saskatoon

Viscount

Lanigan

Wynyard

Foam Lake

Theodore

Yorkton

Russell Manitoba

Minnedosa

Minnedosa

Gladstone

Portage la Prairie

Winnipeg

Winnipeg

Richer

Falcon Lake

Kenora

Kenora

Vermilion Bay

Dryden

Ignace

Upsala

Shabaqua Falls

Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay

Boote’s home

Nipigon

Gravel River

Terrace Bay

Marathon

White River

White River

White River

Wawa

Montreal River

Heyden

Sault Ste. Marie

Estok

Spanish

Whitefish

Sudbury

Sudbury

Sturgeon Falls

North Bay

Mattawa

Rolphton

Cobden

Ottawa