Day 11

Leaving Gilman there still was some discomfort in my knee but no real pain unless I pushed really hard. I took it easy, but had a 100+ mile day ahead of me, so I did have to keep a decent pace.
The amount of gravel roads I would encounter in Illinois was unexpected, but about half of my day consisted of them, making me happy for the wider tires I fitted.
Most of my day was country roads, but once I made it to Joliet, I had a nice Riverside bike path all the way into the Chicago suburbs!

I rode that until I hit countryside, and started heading into the city. I rode though Cicero and up Ogden avenue all the way to Damen, which took me through Wicker Park and all the way to Wrigleyville! I had done it, I had finally made it to my destination, Wrigley Field! With tears in my eyes I asked a stranger to take my photo in front and went to the Cubby Bear bar to call my family.
I sat there for over an hour talking with the bartenders about my trip and they ended up not charging me for my drinks. I went to Murphy's bleachers and got a wonderful burger, but left still a bit hungry. My warmshowers host for the night was amazing! Anna and Britton took me into their home and showered me with hospitality, even taking me to a local pizza joint and buying me dinner! I'm so happy I made it to Chicago, and proved that I could do it. This was one of many great adventures to come!

Comments

  1. UnknownAugust 9, 2017 at 11:01 PM

    What an accomplishment! So rad Kanten

    ReplyDelete
  2. RodAugust 10, 2017 at 12:38 PM

    I am very happy for you and this outstanding accomplishment Big K!

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownAugust 11, 2017 at 4:34 PM

    Wanted to congratulate you on such a tremendous and inspiring accomplishment. Found your initial post on Reddit and followed your blog.
    May I suggest visiting Eataly about a block from the downtown Marriott on the Magnificent Mile 43 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611

    ReplyDelete

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