Mercer Island Cyclist Sets Off on Pedals vs. ALS Challenge

With the date approaching for Timm Fenton’s individual transcontinental bicycle journey aimed at raising both money and attention for ALS research, the Mercer Island local feels somewhat uneasy contemplating the significant challenge ahead.

"The countdown has fully begun, oh yeah," stated Fenton, whose voice mirrored the anxiety mixed with excitement.

Fenton, aged 59, who has lived on the island for 13 years with his family, plans to start his over-60-day cycling trip on May 1 in Florence, Oregon. He aims to finish this impressive 4,200-mile trek along the TransAmerica Trail in Yorktown, Virginia, sometime between late June and early July.

In his "Pedals vs. ALS" journey—which aims to benefit the ALS Therapy Development Institute—Fenton plans to ride in honor of his mother, Jan, who succumbed to ALS following a valiant two-year fight in 2017. He also dedicates this effort to all individuals presently enduring the ravages of the disease, as stated in a press release.

I simply want to contribute whatever I can to reach our fundraising target," stated Fenton, who had amassed $15,090 out of his $50,000 objective when this report was published. "Seeing people truly grappling with the illness and dealing with it motivates me to step up. My cycling journey doesn't even come close to comparing with their struggles.

An important and motivational stop on the journey will take place on May 15 in Missoula, Montana, at an event orchestrated by Ned Becker, who suffers from ALS. This gathering, where Fenton will be celebrated as the honoree, plans to include cuisine, live musical performances, and raffle draws aimed at raising funds. According to him, attending this event is among the key factors motivating Fenton to keep his daily mileage up to 70 miles per day.

“His dedication to help find a cure and creating awareness for this cause is amazing. He knows firsthand, watching his mother pass away from ALS, how this terminal disease impacts the person and their family,” Becker said. “I am honored to provide Timm with as much support as I can muster for his efforts when he travels through Missoula. May God watch over his journey and keep him safe and healthy.”

Timm’s spouse, Kelly Fenton, dreads the idea of her husband embarking on a solo bicycle journey coast to coast for about two months. Nevertheless, she understands that this adventure has long been one of his aspirations, and now seems like the perfect time for him to finally make it happen. Since the latter part of the 1980s, Timm has had a career in designing consumer products, but at present, he finds himself without work, giving him ample freedom to travel.

"I'm certain that thoughts of his mother will frequently cross his mind during his bike ride. Knowing that he's increasing awareness about ALS and gathering funds for research and a cure provides him with a feeling of achievement. While he's gone, I'll be dedicating many prayers to him," she stated.

Timm will transport camping gear on his bicycle and plans to stay at motels for several evenings during his journey. For sustenance, he'll begin with provisions enough for two days and replenish them in the smaller towns he passes through prior to entering the wilder parts of the trail. Additionally, he will bring along two outfits and a portable stove.

Over the past several months, Timm has alternated between training sessions on and off the island to prepare his legs for the extensive journey ahead. As an avid cyclist with a lifetime dedication to the sport, he is also involved in ice hockey, snowshoeing, and spelunking (exploring caves).

Upon arriving in Yorktown, Timm plans to pack his bicycle into a crate, send it back home via shipping, and then fly back to this area. His intention is to keep his audience updated about his journey by posting daily video clips and pictures on his social media platforms as well as on his donation-raising webpage found at: https://fundraise.als.net/pedalsvsals .

Regarding the bicycle Timm will use during his journey, he'll ride a carbon-fiber Kona Ouroboros model sourced from Shots and Sprockets bike shop located in Seattle. The owner, Mike Jenness, gave Timm an upgraded gravel bike previously owned by Aaron Turner, a celebrated mechanic and racer who passed away due to ALS in 2022.

“That bike shop was kind enough to lend me his bike. That’s pretty special. That was the, ‘Oh my goodness, this is meant to be,’ and the bike is unbelievable,” Timm said.

Whenever Timm reflects on his mother, he believes Jan would feel both proud and excited knowing he’s embarking on this journey. However, she’d undoubtedly worry about his security and welfare too. According to Timm, she wouldn’t find his aspirations surprising since he mirrors her traits—a fertile imagination coupled with an unwavering dedication to achieving his objectives.

"I'll have plenty of time during this journey to contemplate my mother and the bond we shared, as well as her numerous achievements," remarked Timm, adding that Jan was an artist, art therapist, and philanthropist.

Timm mentioned that Jan possessed an impressive past and was a compassionate and spiritually inclined individual. "She was highly appreciated by everybody who knew her and deeply missed by all whom she impacted," he added.