In 2022 I was blessed to participate in another XTreme expedition and become the first Greek to trans-continentally cycle across North America. I cycled 7,000 km in 63 days (from June 18 until August 20) at a total elevation of 46,872 meters (i.e., five times the height of Mt. Everest) from the Pacific Ocean/Seattle to the Atlantic Ocean/Boston through the Rockies and Ontario, Canada, 2022. Specifically, I cycled across the following states: Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ontario/Canada, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

This expedition turned out to be an extreme adventure and a completely new experience, including ascending by bicycle significant mountainous passages and summits, descending dangerous downhills, riding along specific heavy traffic on interstate roads, cycling on gravel as well as different types of asphalt roads, through high temperatures, strong winds, and heavy rains. I did experience plenty of injuries, such as wrist and feet numbness during the whole expedition, a pinched nerve in my neck, back pains, knee tendon injury, and a heavy cold.

Some of my thoughts about Xtreme expeditions and gratitude.

I take on XTreme poly sports challenges because I enjoy enhancing my grit by setting high goals, growing my mindset, and having fun by overcoming unimaginable difficulties. I have repeatedly stated that I enjoy being part of a handful of people who, through their extreme endeavors, set a stigma on immortality. Also, I like participating in Xtreme expeditions because each poly athlete must demonstrate an intense work ethic and character.  Indeed, work ethic is a must, while character is the primary ingredient that will take you where you want to go and achieve things.

Extreme expeditions require intensive training, additional commitment, dedication, and a strong dose of craziness. I can deal with all the above except training. Intensive training at age 67 is not easy! Believe me!

Also, it should be no surprise that the Creator who created us and our universe implores us to be grateful people. After all, people who practice gratitude are generally happier, healthier, and more optimistic about life. Yet, my ability to be grateful often ebbs and flows with the circumstances in front of me. You see, gratitude is like a muscle – which gets more robust if we consistently give it attention and push it beyond its comfort level; conversely, if we fail to exercise it always, our ability to be thankful atrophies. I am happy to complete this expedition and grateful to be back home safe.

Georgios Ardavanis 17/11/2022