Hopkins 4K for Cancer

June 4, 2003

Hi, Ohio!
It’s hard to believe that we have already passed through the Appalachians and we’re well on our way across the country. Today’s ride was full of endless surprises. Everyone set out from the Greensburg, PA YMCA for a relaxing but rainy ride to lunch. During that time Dan took a fall which temporarily damaged his bike and Rajeev got a flat.



After lunch we continued on to Butler, PA where Hites bike shop graciously donated labor and Powerbars. From Hites, things got a little tricky. We continued on route 422, which is apparently restricted to bikers. Katie, Dan, Matt, Pat and I finished about 10 min. on 422 before pulling over in a park and drive. We decided it would be safer to shuttle. So while we waited for the van we made the most of our time at the park and drive by speculating what sort of illicit activities might take place there. We also had tire races and I can’t forget my close encounter with a snake while relieving myself behind a bush.



When we had finally arrived in Youngstown we were greeted by a sigh welcoming the “4Kers” to Ohio posted next to the border sign by members of the Coitsville Presbyterian Church. The people at Coitsville are some of the warmest people that I have ever met. They prepared a delicious meal for us complete with desserts which included the most amazing homemade coconut pie.



The greatest highlight of my stay at Coitsville was meeting the people there. A man named Ralph Traenkle who had lived in Youngstown all 85 years of his life. He told me all about his life and that I should always remember that if it weren’t for crazy people like us (Hopkins 4Kers) nothing would ever happen. It’s a good thought to keep in mind while we continue across the country in hopes to make a difference. Thanks Ralph!



Meredith Clayton