Godspeed, Jerry

Our friend Jerry Schemmel won’t join us for this year’s FREEDOM TOUR CLASSIC.

He has a reasonable excuse. Jerry embarks today, June 15, on an epic challenge.

Jerry will compete in RAAM, the Race Across America. 3000+ miles. 170,000+ feet of climbing. 12 states. 3 mountain ranges.

30% longer than the 3-week (with 2 rest days) Tour de France.

In 12 days or less. By himself.

Jerry must average 250+ miles per day, continuously, for 12 days in a row, just to complete the race.

He knows what he’s in for. In 2015, Jerry and his partner Brad Cooper won the 2-person team RAAM. Completed the ride in a little over 7 days.

There’s a documentary: Godspeed: The Race Across America. Find it and watch it. You’ll be amazed and inspired.

+ + +

Why would a 61-year-old man do something so seemingly insane?

He’s raising funds for a great cause. If you would like to know more and perhaps toss in a few dollars in support, here’s the link. I know he’d appreciate it. But I don’t think that’s why he’s doing it.

Jerry loves riding his bike, loves competition and challenge. But I don’t think that’s why he’s doing it.

Jerry is, above all, a humble man of faith. I think he’s simply doing his best to use his gifts and experiences to tell a story of sacrifice, courage, hope, and redemption.

It’s a great example. Jesus invites each of us to be part of His big story, a story bigger than ourselves. A story of sacrifice, courage, hope, and redemption.

Godspeed, Jerry.