It’s Myrna here – as I mentioned earlier today on Facebook, today is the first day we’ve had contact with Owen since Sunday. He was able to send some messages via text and Facebook. We haven’t had phone contact since Wednesday. It’s odd not hearing Owen’s voice and difficult not being able to contact him to tell him how things are going at home.
Owen’s workplace, OnApproach, has been most supportive in letting Owen take leave to go on this epic adventure. From what I understand, Engagement Manager Pete purchased all of the Tour Divide maps and is keeping track of Owen’s progress at work. I believe he’s posted the maps in the break room and is doing daily reports. Today he sent me a picture of where Owen was eating lunch before Owen told me where he was eating lunch (picture obtained through google maps, I believe). It’s great to know that Pete and so many others of you are following Owen on his ride. Thanks to everyone who is cheering Owen on!!
Anyway – here’s a note from Owen from earlier today:
I’m at Jax Cafe (In Eureka, MT) eating the best meal in days. Hot soup and grilled tuna sandwich. Wish I had room for more. There is a grocery store and Subway a couple miles back that I will resupply at. Will cycle on and camp again maybe after Whitefish Divide.
We’ve all been wondering how Owen is fairing mentally with all the weather and challenges. He had planned for 100+ miles of riding a day and has not been able to get to that goal. Via text, I asked him a question from Ryan who said he’s not worried about Owen’s safety but does wonder if he’s getting discouraged. Owen’s response to Ryan’s question is this:
I am discoursaged. I really wanted to do more hours and miles. But the weather, mechanical problems and terrible roads have slowed me down so much. I can only wonder how the leaders go so fast. It must be really brutal.
It makes sense that Owen is feeling discouraged given all that has happened. That said, Owen’s still pedaling and setting goals – and above all he’s accomplishing a goal in that he got himself out to Canada and he’s on his bike riding the Tour Divide Race!
Earlier today he told me via text: Tuchuck Campground is my goal for today. Then I’ll try for a hundred mile day tomorrow to Ferndale.
Well, guess what? Moments ago Owen accomplished his riding goal for the day. He’s in Tuchuck settling in for the night.
Here’s to a good day of riding tomorrow! On to Ferndale, Owen!
Owen's Epic Rides 
Sounds like you’re doing great, Owen. Hope you get passed feeling discouraged and start feeling good about each new challenge met and conquered. In a true adventure such as this ride, reality often has little resemblance to our original, pre-start expectations.
Brian and I are so impressed! Looks like you’ve come through some really tough miles… Thanks for making the time to share it all with us!
May the Force be with you.
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Your accomplishments are amazing! Push the discouraging thoughts aside and remember the love and support from Myrna, Ryan and Rose and the rest of your family and friends. We love you and daily offer our support and prayers. Go Owen Go!!
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