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Grandpa making coast-to-coast ride for autism
McCOOK Neb. - What sets Danny Davis’s cross-country expedition apart is the mode of transportation he chose, a Penny Farthing bicycle. This unconventional bike features a large wheel in the front and a smaller one in the back, making his journey both challenging and remarkable. Despite encountering obstacles like a melted back tire in the desert, Danny has persisted, fueled by his unwavering dedication to his cause, Autism Awareness.
Danny’s motivation for this 4,000-mile ride is deeply personal. His granddaughter Bella, who is three and a half years old, has Autism. This journey is not just about raising awareness for Autism but also about raising funds to purchase balance bikes and specialty bikes for kids with special needs. His goal is to donate 100 bikes, with 6 going to the school Bella attends.
While this is his first and perhaps only cross-country ride, he has been a lifelong bike rider and has competed in Iron Man races and long-distance running. He bought this bike because it is different. He regularly takes it to fairs, festivals, and parades. He decorates it with a specialty wrap and lights to match the occasion. Currently, it has the primary colored puzzle pieces associated with Autism Awareness. Kids often ask to sit on it for pictures, which he happily abides. He will usually give them a sticker or trinket to mark the occasion. “I always tell them to remember they can do anything they want. It’s one pedal at a time.” Davis said.
He started his journey at the Santa Monica Pier in Calif. with his back wheel in the Pacific Ocean. “I’ll put my front wheel in the Atlantic when I get there,” he said, there being Ocean City, MD.
From the historic Route 66 to the hidden treasures he will find along Highway 83 here in Nebraska, he has learned more about himself than before he started.
“I’m not as strong as I thought I was. And I’m not as young as I used to be. But I’ve also learned that I will eventually get there if I just put my head down and pedal.”
Every stop along Davis’s journey becomes an opportunity for connection.
This was evident in McCook, where he stopped at Walmart for supplies, shared stories with locals, and even let a toddler sit on his bike for a picture. His conversation with this reporter revealed his appreciation for the community, as he shared that he may have had the best meal of his trip in McCook, a hearty piece of lasagna from Citta Deli.
You can follow Davis on his website, luckypennyusa.com