From a temperature of 124-degree heat in the desert to the threat of wildfires, to the beauty of this country Manitowoc native Don Davey said his 8-member team “witnessed it all” during their Bike Race Across America recently.
The grueling event from Oceanside, California to Annapolis, Maryland was organized to benefit military veterans’ issues, such as suicide.
Upon his return, the former college & pro football player for the Badgers and Packers told Seehafer News he’s so glad he did it, describing the trek across America as a phenomenal experience while admitting, “The race was brutal, it was probably the most difficult thing I’ve ever done physically. “
Davey also said it was very rewarding, and that “Crossing that finish line was a very, very cool experience and for me it was personal because I was racing in honor of my father’s legacy. My dad served in the Marine Corps for 13 years and he passed away in January. And I was able to use this race as a way to pay tribute to him and honor his legacy of hard work and discipline and everything he did for me over the years.”
And, waiting at the finish line was a very influential person in Don’s life, his mother Gail.
“Having my mom at the finish line when I crossed I presented her an American flag as a gift from my dad at the finish,” he said. “It was very emotional for both of us and for our whole team quite honestly.”
Davey explained he and his team covered the 3,070-miles in 6-days, 13-hours, and 48-minutes. He says four people rode at night and four during the day, pedaling in 20-minute intervals from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
They had a support crew of 15-people including a doctor, two bike mechanics, a massage therapist, a dietitian and nutritionist, and an RV for rest and meals.
Most importantly, Don said they raised awareness and over $150,000 for a great cause.
