The Team

About Me: I am Kurtis Reid McClellan. Most of my good friends know me by a different name though—Blue. I was born and raised in the countryside around Orangeville, Ontario. At the time of the trip, I was twenty-four years young, making me the oldest of the four of us.

I've always been partial to outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. I've also never been big on "technology"—an odd thing for a Computer Science graduate. I've always preferred an axe over a chainsaw, and to walk or bike over driving.

The biggest disappointment was not being able to take the Trans Canada Trail. However, I learned a great deal about myself and discovered the mental determination required on a trip like this. I achieved my goal of seeing all of the western cities and escaped the pull of everyday life.

About Me: I graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Math degree in June 1999. Before the trip, I was working as an Online Developer. I grew up on a farm in southern Ontario, so cycling was a convenient way to get around when I was younger.

My boss suggested that once I finish university, I should travel, as it would be my only chance for a lengthy journey. I thought it made more sense to see my home before traveling to someone else's. I wanted the trip to be a chance to experience total freedom.

Months later, when I typed in my journals, I could remember with much more clarity. Some memories are still so clear it feels like I can relive the moment—the grass between my toes in Kamloops, and the warmth of the afternoon sunshine on my back while riding to Bassano.

Riding a bike has always been a form of escapism for me. Flying along on my bike, wind in my hair, the sky seemed like the limit. Problems and worries just melted away. It gave me a feeling of freedom and independence similar to owning your first car.

My main motivation was a desire to feel exactly how big our country really is. In fantasy novels, characters spend weeks traveling on horseback; an unsupported cycling trip seemed like the closest modern equivalent to that experience.

Even though we only traveled as far as Winnipeg, I don't feel like the trip was a waste. I enjoyed the feeling of accomplishment when every kilometre traveled meant I was one kilometre closer to my destination. This trip has given me the confidence that I really can bike from coast to coast.