KC and Kauffman
I made it to ballpark number 11! It’s great, I’m loving every second of this trip and it’s crazy to look back at the memories I’ve made, the miles I’ve ridden, and the friendships I’ve formed. What’s even more crazy is that I’m not even halfway done. I’ve still got plenty of mils to ride, strangers to meet, and baseball to watch. I can’t wait!
As I rode into Kansas City I was able to find a few people to ride with into Kansas City! Woohoo! I’ve spent way too long riding by myself lately, so I certainly welcome new company on the road. Cole and Jeromy geneously slowed down their average pace to ride alongside the crazy biker dude from Wisconsin.
Cole was childhood friends with B4B’er Adam, and donned his B4B tee shirt for the ride. He was ready to ride, and despite having a one year old daughter at home, still was able to find time to get out and ride regularly. Now that’s impressive! On the other side, Jeromy was preparing for Tour Nebraska a five day supported tour which takes you through the land of the cornhuskers. He was breaking in his new GoPro for the ride so I’m definitely excited to see the shots that came from that!
I always love riding up to the ballpark. It’s an adrenaline filled time as you eagerly anticipate spotting the stadium amongst the skyline. In Kansas City the ballpark is located outside of town a bit, but still looks great right next to Arrowhead, home of the Chiefs. I always try to bike or walk around the entire outside of the stadium to take in the whole feel, it’s also really nice to take in the ballparks without any other fans around.
The Royals are preparing to play the NL All-Stars in a few weeks. That’s right. Because of the fan voting process for the starters of the All-Star game, 8 of the 9 starters for the AL team are currently Royals. There are still a number of weeks left before the lineups are officially announced but it’s an impressive feat nonetheless. The MLB won’t change the voting process, it gets people talking about the All-Star game and really gets fans excited for the mid summer classic.
I’m staying with the aforementioned B4B’er Adam’s family while in KC as they graciously open up their home to me while I’m in town. With four boys, their family reminds me much of my own where I reside with my two brothers. Safe to say, I feel right at home. The cable sports network blares all day and the toilet seat’s up, it’s stuck that way. That’s a poem my mom has hanging on our walls. I’m sure the same was to be said in the Kremers’ household back in the day.
I’ve got a plethora of off days both in Kansas City and once I make it to St. Louis next week. So I’m soaking them in. Kansas City has a ton to offer. From the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum to the World War I Museum to killer barbeque there is no shortage of things to check out in the city while I’m here. So I’m staying busy. Although, because I’m not biking I’ve got to cut my calorie consumption by about 4,000. So that’s a little tough, but I’ll manage.
I’ll be hitting up both games versus the Brewers on Wednesday and Thursday. It’s the only time I get to see my beloved Brewers on the road during the trip, so I’ll be sure to enjoy it. You can bet I’ll don my Brewers hat and root, root, root for the away team. Don’t worry Kansas City, I’ll still take the time to appreciate your stadium, fans, and tailgating atmosphere. I’m really looking forward to experiencing Kauffman!
Until next time, I’ll be sure to enjoy my offdays here in Kansas City. I can guarantee that.
Matt