NKCR Sept 10 2017 – Swift Current to Moose Jaw – Tailwind City

Today we rode for Ty. Ty was a teenager who taught people about many things in his short life. He taught them about courage, bravery, and strength, and about having a gentle nature and a desire to learn. He taught the doctors and staff at Alberta Children’s hospital to think outside the box, and was a miracle several times over as the doctors were constantly amazed with his will and ability to survive. He taught them while he was here, and continues to do so after his passing, through the studies written about him and his cancer. And he taught us to hope that the gold ribbon for childhood cancer would be as readily recognized as the pink ribbon, and that no child should have to suffer the way he did.
Our journey today continued across Saskatchewan, and boy was it quick! We spent the majority of our ride on the Trans Canada highway between Swift Current (our overnight location) and Moose Jaw. With a strong wind out of the west, we made great time, averaging over 32 Kph for 177 kilometers. Along the way we had rest stops and lunch and were able to take in some of the scenery.
Along the way we stopped at this old house on the prarie at Parkbeg. It would seem insignificant, except that it has a history with the National Kids Cancer Ride, and has been a stop for every ride (since 2008) and the team takes the time to sign the doorframe. It was definitely a cool stop and we also had a chance to have a quick look within the quirky Parkbeg cafe.
After that it was fairly smooth sailing into Moose Jaw, except for a slight excursion into the gravel for me and a bit of road rash. Nothing major, just a reminder to be careful out there. After showers, we were treated to an incredible turkey dinner at the home of part of National Rider Rochelle Davidson’s family. The food was so incredible, as was the hospitality. A big turkey dinner made for a quick nap in the RV on the way to our stop for the night (Estevan, SK).
Tomorrow will bring new adventures, and, unfortunately more stories of the struggles against childhood cancer with my wheel family. Stay tuned.

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