June 20 — Lincoln, IL to Monee, IL (151 Miles)

We decided to shift the end point for today from Dwight, IL to Monee, IL, which meant adding approximately 40 miles to today’s ride and taking 40 miles off tomorrow’s ride into Chicago, to build a cushion in the event of more inclement weather or other obstacles.

We got an early start and were on track for our 10am stop at Bloomington Cycle & Fitness, until reaching a road closed sign on Old Route 66. We’ve been able to get through all the other “road closed” signs by bike, but not this one. The stop at BC&F was a good one; meeting with one of the fatherhood essay contest students and his dad, visiting with Caryn & Scott Davis, and meeting Brandon Reid a hard core endurance cyclist and long-time friend of Lon Haldeman, one of the DHR advisors.

From there it was off to Monee. Riding conditions were good; moderate temps, overcast skies, and a slight tailwind. We rode through numerous towns I never heard of with some classic road side signs and attractions. We covered the 151 miles, feeling strong, by 7pm and headed to Mr. Benny’s in Matteson to have our last supper :-), with local friends Judy & Tom Shapiro.

Hard to believe there are less than 40 miles to go for DHR2015. It’s been an amazing journey. Stay tuned for day #21.

Wilk with Miles (essayist) and his father Kerry.

Brandon Reid, a real endurance cyclist and me, a poser 🙂

Pondering the finer things of life along the road.

Chilling for a few minutes with Gary Grube and Dariusz Cupial.

He’s left the building and he’s standing on the side of the road.

With Patrick who road well over 100 miles today. Way to go Patrick!!!!

The effort it took on Day 20 to make the finish look easy.