ReturnToTheTarSands

I have just spent one terrific week with the ToTheTarSands group, and as I head home, I am pondering a typical comment many of our acquaintances have offered regarding the proposed 3-week trip: “you guys are nuts!”

Prior to the ride, I tended to agree that journeying some 1400 km was a crazy idea. But after one week of riding, my view has changed completely. Over the past seven days, we have experienced tremendous hospitality (including excellent nourishment, comfortable sleeping quarters, and terrific conversation). This helped propel the group through our travels from Calgary to Edmonton and onto Fort Saskatchewan (Aug 23-30). Despite two long days (~80km) each of bicycling in the rain, the week seemed to go by quite nicely. Our physical feat is a direct result of the support we have received along the way. People from all corners of the province are demonstrating their solidarity first hand. So rather than our bike trip being such a crazy endeavour, I feel that what the group is about to experience in for Fort McMurray is much wilder. The contrast of disjointed, self-interested activities may become clear, although it remains to be seen.

At the end of the trip, you be the judge of what is crazier - the bike trip itself, or the context it set out to document. Thanks to all the riders for having shared a part of this experience with me. You are all pushing the boundaries of comfort, opening your minds, and having fun while doing so.

Robbie Larson

Filed under: Commentary, TTTS on August 31st, 2007