In 1998, Troop 165 from Fredericksburg, VA began a yearly tradition by taking their first high adventure summer cycling trip. Twelve years later, the troop has completed rides that include the C&O Canal, the Greenbriar Trail in West Virginia, the Allegany Passageway in Pennsylvania, the Erie Canal in New York, the Hudson Valley in New York and a New York City to Fredericksburg, VA trip. In addition, the troop completed several rides for charities including disabled veterans, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cancer and aids. During the same time period, Troop 165 has also completed several century rides , (100 miles in one day ) including rides in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Key Largo to Key West in Florida, the eastern shore of Maryland, the Northern Neck of VA, Trenton to Atlantic City in New Jersey and their local Cannonball Century.

It has become such a tradition at Troop 165, that once a scout completes a high adventure trip, a century ride and becomes an Eagle Scout, he is inducted into the “ Red Dawn Patrol “, an honor 17 scouts have achieved since 1998.

As 2010 approached, Troop 165 knew they had to plan something very special. The Boy Scouts of America were planning their 100th year celebration at the final National Jamboree to be held at Fort A.P. Hill in Bowling Green, VA. Since the Jamboree will be held within 20 miles of Fredericksburg, the idea took shape quickly. Create a ride, 2000 miles long, connecting the loop of all the rides they had already completed. During the ride, stay at more than 12 different council summer camps in session, taking time to speak to fellow scouts and scouters about our quest, and finish by pedaling into the opening ceremony of the National Jamboree. In addition, invite Eagle Scouts of all ages, from all over America to participate with them while raising money for Scouting. Take it a step further by using the money to develop a high adventure camp for cycling. This would allow Troop 165 to share their passion for cycling with scouts from all over the country.

THE DREAM would be to have a single rider from every council throughout the USA come together in a unified effort to encourage health and nutrition and prove anything is possible.

ARE YOU UP TO THE CHALLENGE ?