Grahame’s Route 66 Cycle Ride: A Journey for a Worthy Cause
As retirement looms, most people might dream of sun-soaked holidays and lazy afternoons. Not Grahame Russell, though. This local businessman and Chair of the East Grinstead Business Association has decided to swap relaxation for adventure. Together with his long-time friend Tim Howse, Grahame is set to embark on a remarkable journey, cycling 3,800 miles across America in just nine weeks. Their mission? To raise £10,000 for The Greenaway Foundation.
The Heart of the Mission
For Grahame, this challenge is not merely about endurance; it’s about making a difference and helping The Greenaway Foundation to do more in the local community.
A Pint of Inspiration
So, how did two self-proclaimed “not mad cyclists” find themselves planning such a monumental journey? The idea cycle along the Route 66 was born in the most British of settings, a pub. Over a few pints ten years ago, Grahame and Tim joked about cycling across America, assuming it was just a fanciful notion. Fast forward to today, and they’re on the brink of making that dream a reality.
On May 5th, they will set off from Santa Monica Beach, California, heading towards Boston, Massachusetts. Instead of opting for the shortest route, they’ve chosen to add an extra 600 miles by following scenic roads, including parts of the legendary Route 66. Grahame quips, “Because it just sounds cooler—plus, avoiding gun-happy Southerners seemed like a sensible plan!”
The Road Ahead
Their nine-week adventure along the Route 66 promises to be filled with breathtaking landscapes, from arid deserts to rolling hills and endless highways. However, it also presents its fair share of challenges. Grahame acknowledges that this will be the longest time he’s ever spent away from his wife, which he admits might be the biggest challenge of all.
Staying safe while cycling in America is no small feat. From careless drivers glued to their phones to wild dogs that seem to take a particular interest in cyclists, the hazards are many. “We’ve read up on this,” Grahame explains. “Apparently, cyclists get chased a lot. Tim’s had his rabies jab; I still need to sort mine out. We’ve even been told to carry bones to throw if needed to distract canine pursuers!”
Training and Preparation
With the departure date fast approaching, Grahame and Tim have ramped up their training. Grahame spends time on the turbo trainer at home and goes on outdoor endurance rides. “At our age, preventing injury is as important as the miles,” he notes. They’re focusing on stretching and strength work to ensure they can endure the long ride ahead.
One clever aspect of their plan includes a Formula 1-style tyre change mid-trip on the Route 66 to keep their bikes in prime condition. Grahame has received invaluable support from On Your Bike in Felbridge, who have provided equipment and maintenance advice. “Puncture repairs and quick roadside fixes are inevitable,” he says, preparing for the challenges that lie ahead.
Camping Adventures
With no support vehicle following them along the Route 66, Grahame and Tim will carry everything they need on their bikes, including tents, tools, and enough water for desert crossings. They’ll mix motels with camping, even planning to spend a night behind a petrol station—a well-known stop for cyclists. “It sounds awful, but it’s the only place to pitch a tent in that area, apparently it’s been tried and tested!”
For safety and entertainment, they’ll use helmet microphones for communication and to call out hazards. And when the silence becomes too much, they’ve prepared playlists ranging from the Beach Boys in California to Tony Christie’s ‘Is This the Way to Amarillo?’ as they pedal through Texas.
The Real Impact
While this journey is undeniably an adventure of a lifetime, Grahame is clear that the primary goal is raising funds for The Greenaway Foundation. “The work they do is incredible,” he states. “Every penny raised will go directly to the charity.”
As the miles stretch ahead, Grahame remains optimistic. “This ride will test us in ways we probably haven’t even considered yet, but knowing every mile makes a difference will keep us going.”
Please show your support for Grahame’s epic adventure along Route 66 and goal of raising £10,000 for The Greenaway Foundation.
Follow their progress on the Route 66 as updates will be shared on social media. Join us in supporting a noble cause and cheering on Grahame and Tim as they embark on this extraordinary adventure!
