sylvia

Sylvia has been questioning the status quo since she was a young girl getting mud on her communion dress. She is used to going against the grain acknowledging and managing difficulties along the way. Not one to take the easy road, Sylvia discovered the pleasures of grand adventures when she met the other half of the team, Frank. She’s always been open and easy going when it comes to discovering new places. Some might say she didn’t really have a choice if she wanted to ever spend time with Frank. This being said, she is not to be underestimated. She will make sure the itinerary mapped out by Frank does not involve bushwhacking or Taliban country. On top of her innate perseverance, she also developed a stamina that most grannies can only dream of. Once you get her going there is no way of stopping her. A strong force of nature, she will take chances on people and will be a loyal protector to those she loves.

Being a mother of two and grandmother of two, she will put her talent as efficient cook to grand use during the adventures to come, always making sure the machine is supplied with efficient energy. Sylvia is therefore not only the locomotive, but also the stoker of the engine behind the upcoming adventure. Her daughter would say she kicks ass and say that this trip will make her even stronger.

By her kids and Alexa T.

Frank 

I have always thought of Frank as the Jedi master Yoda. Yes, older and compact enough to fit on my back, but never to be underestimated or trifled with, or, truffled, as it were.

Frank’s wisdom and willingness to share is as boundless as the adventures he has conquered. Having cycled the world many times over and lived so many lives, his knowledge and experience has made Frank a mentor and inspiration to most. Myself included.

He is more than a trainer. He is a teacher. Just ask him anything and you will no doubt get a scholarly seminar which may in fact leave you with more questions than answers. Not to mention the need for a translator. Frank speaks multiple languages, often, all at the same time. 

No doubt, Frank has done all the detailed research to ensure that he and Sylvia have packed all the right “gears”. I know he is inspired and focused to fill his heart, mind and multitude of cameras with endless “souvenirs”. But most importantly, this journey is special because it is shared. Not just with us through their punny and proud blog Eastcapades, but with his most precious life and riding partner, Sylvia (admittedly we were all hoping it was us).

I have had the pleasure of sharing many trails with Frank, a place he is most at home and in his element. As he and Sylvia embark on this great adventure it makes me happy to know they will be sharing that place together. No need searching for the diamond in the rough when it’s right beside you, cycling, pushing, snoring, shoving and cozying up in the confines of your tent for 365 days straight. May it never be “from far too hot”, nor “from far too cold” and most importantly, not too far from home.

By RJ S.