December 1, 2008
- Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Blackfoot - Idaho
The Long Bike Back
By Hasti Taghi
IDAHO FALLS - "This doesn't have to happen, it's definitely an epidemic across the country," says Pearson Constantine, Avid Cyclist.
An epidemic that takes the lives of about 800 people each year. This epidemic doesn't involve smoking or drinking...it involves bikes...cars...and the open road. "Biking was something we grew up doing. And I loved it," says Constantine. Pearson Constantine was an avid cyclist...it was a hobby that let him enjoy the outdoors. That all changed one day in June of 2006 when Constantine was hit by an S-U-V while riding near his home in New York City. It was a hit and run accident that left him unconscious and in the hospital for 9 agonizing days. A broken pelvis... Femer and vertabrae made it nearly impossible for him to get back on his bike. But, that wouldn't stop Constantine. 3 surgeries followed by 20 months of physical therapy and he's back...this time with a message. "I've always had this desire to see the country and it made sense to make a spectacle out of biking across the U.S. To make sure that these accidents which are totally avoidable are now avoided," says Constantine. The story goes like this...2 brothers, 2 bikes and one open road. Their journey began in Newport, Oregon on August 12th. The route... Highway 20, the longest transcontinental route in America. 6 weeks, 12 states and over 3400 miles and the Constantine brothers will reach their last port of call... Cape Cod, Mass. Hopefully with a life changing story... not only for them... but those they meet along the winding road. "this is somebody's life we're talking about. There's no need to put us at risk just for being on the bike," says Constantine. "The long bike back" will be a documentary...Of a recovery...and the morale of the story... "It's really about sharing the road. Both cyclists and drivers need to work together to keep each other safe," says Constantine. Constantine's message is also to cyclists. He wants you on your bikes to make it safer for everyone. He recommends wearing bright clothing, signaling, and obeying the signs. Because after all, to be respected like another vehicle on the road, you need to act like one. The documentary will be out in the spring and it will include the brothers' journey in Idaho Falls. |
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