Chip Seal, Barking Dogs: the Ride for the American Lung Association Rolls On

Somewhere in Montana...The day of rest in Missoula is over, and the riders are back on the road, going 61 miles from Avon to Townsend. The nights are down right cool, 60 degrees and below. The riders are getting to cross the Continental Divide soon.

Yesterday was day No. 10 and they have four more days in this gigantic state. They will rest up in Billings on July 1. From there, its on to Hardin, MT then a cross over into Sheridan, Wyoming.

Although there are fires all over the west, Larissa Powers reports that they are north of the fires, and in no danger at all.

The stopover in Missoula was a chance to recharge and rest. They met the mayor at Big Dipper Ice Cream, and were recognized by the American Lung Association in Montana.

Once the riders cut the corner of Wyoming, they will begin their ride into the upper Midwest, first stop will be Rapid City, South Dakota. The Badlands will be an interesting stop along the way.

Chip Seal is no fun at all

The riders face many obstacles. Fresh chip seal on the open roadways of Montana seems to be the biggest impediment.

By the time they reach Washington, DC August 4, they will have experienced Mother Natures’ hot and cold weather; rain and hail storms, searing hot days and cold nights. Barking dogs give chase from time to time.

Though there are plenty of aches and pains for the 17 riders, no one is overly complaining or planning to drop out. You can only imagine the bonding that must be going on with these 17 strangers from all over the country who got together for the ride of a lifetime. The fundraising effort on behalf of the American Lung Association remains their paramount goal.

Here are scenes from the road in Montana as shot by MICDS school teacher Larissa Powers. By all means, check the updates on her ride Facebook page.