A 2,900-Mile Ride Across America
A lifetime dream with purpose
Track my ride starting September 10th!
I’m using Garmin Connect LiveTrack, which shares my location, speed, and stats while I ride.
Check back here every morning for the day’s link!
Updated 8/22, 7:30 EST
Get the latest ride news!
At the end of each day, I’ll be posting a recap on my blog here, and ride info on Strava.
Why I am riding-please join me!
I’m bicycling coast-to-coast to fulfill a lifelong dream—and to give it purpose. I’m fundraising for two organizations that I’m deeply committed to: Marion Medical Mission, which brings clean water to rural Africa, and Kids’ Chance of Michigan, which provides scholarships to children of severely or fatally injured workers. This journey is fully self-funded and is organized through PAC Tour. After a lifetime of riding and months of focused training, I’m ready—and the time is right. Together, we can make even a greater impact. I hope you’ll join me!
When the Dream Started…
Riding across the U.S. has been a dream of mine since the 7th grade, after finishing my first 200-mile ride on Belle Isle in Detroit. Growing up in Westland, MI, some of my best memories are biking with my dad and one of my best friends, Mike Scott—to places like Chicago, Niagara Falls, Milwaukee, Pinery Park (Ontario, Canada) and Mackinac Island. Now, as I approach 60, it’s time to finally ride from the Pacific to the Atlantic.
I stepped away from cycling in my 20s, but picked it back up when my sons were old enough to ride along in a trailer or tag-along bike. Since then, it’s become much more than a hobby—it’s how I help stay grounded physically, mentally, and spiritually. Over the past 20 years, I’ve ridden solo to Northern Michigan, raced, commuted, explored new cities and countries, and have enjoyed social rides with my wife Julie and close friends. I’ve tackled one-day rides over 300 miles and crossed Michigan in a single day—more than once. For years I averaged nearly 5,000 miles annually. But when I lost both my father and father-in-law within a few weeks of each other 2 years ago, that rhythm paused. Their passing reminded me how short and sacred life is. I’m healthy, grateful, and ready to finally chase this dream.
From Coast to Coast!
On September 10, 2025, I’ll take on my biggest cycling challenge yet: 2,900 miles in 28 days, from San Diego to Tybee Island with PAC Tour. I’ve been training hard since December—despite a rough start with kidney stones. This ride isn’t just about distance; it’s about giving back while I have the opportunity. I’m grateful for great health to do this and am inspired by my faith, my late father, and my mom, whose lifelong volunteering continues to influence my path.
Itinerary
Together, we can make a difference…
A heartfelt thank you to Julie, my wife—her love, support, and steady encouragement have made this ride possible.
I’m honored to take on this journey, supported by my faith, family, friends, and community. Your support—through donations, prayers, or words of encouragement—means more than I can say.
Thank you for being part of this with me.
With gratitude,
Patrick Murphy
