17 Comments
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Greg Caldwell's avatar

Thanks for the kind words Rick. If you decide to do it again. I’ll be right there with you.

Rick Swagler's avatar

Thanks Greg. Wouldn’t have it any other way.

Randy Charles's avatar

Y’all… MuchRespect ! I can’t imagine taking a Rouge Roubaix and riding it two more times! Those delta roads and dirt?! Dayuuummmm 👊

HARDWICK B GREGG's avatar

Yes it's like doing Rouge Roubaix 3 times only the "roads" are a lot worse and no water bottle hand ups.

Barbara Blackford's avatar

Whoa!!! Your son implied you were talented, smart and a cyclist- he didn’t disclose total bad assed and crazy! That’s an incredible feat. Next thing you guys will racing the great divide!

Rick Swagler's avatar

Thank you! But nothing could get me to sign up for the Divide race. That’s beyond nuts!

Barbara Blackford's avatar

Ha, ha!!!!! I’ve ridden a tiny part in Montana and hope to ride a few more tiny pieces in Idaho and WY. But I don’t have 200 miles in a day in me, nor 2000 miles of remote gravel!

Peter Cronin's avatar

The magic of your story, as always, is that it is about so much more than “a ride”. Grateful to know you and have the privilege to read your observations regularly.

Rick Swagler's avatar

Thanks so much Pete. It means a lot coming from you.

Greg Smith's avatar

Wow! Once again I am struck by your vivid storytelling Rick! Truly loved hearing about the kindness of strangers and please note you gave me a serious lump in my throat reading about how Greg sacrificed his own goal for your safety. Delta Epic indeed!

Kimberly V Wynn's avatar

Beautiful.

Caroline Sparrow's avatar

Thank you for your beautiful writing in sharing such an inspiring story.

Clark Raymond's avatar

Rick, as always a great write up. Unbelievable ride you and Greg had.

Said Assali's avatar

rodeo clown part got me good

Rick Swagler's avatar

He was a character. When he mentioned the acreage of the forest I thought “that’s kind of an odd fact to throw in.” I looked it up later and damn if isn’t 60,898 acres…

Pete Haddin's avatar

Epic tale Rick. Thanks for sharing with us!

James McConatha's avatar

Kudos! That's one heck of a ride. An awesome experience to share with friends. Adding it to my bucket list!