Peterborough-area native John Freeman is continuing an epic six-year cycling trip around the world with his dog, hoping to inspire others to embrace life.
The 51-year-old resident of Canmore, Alberta and his border collie-heeler mix Mira, who’s almost five years old, are preparing to make their way through Central and South America.
After they complete that leg of the journey, they will head back home to Alberta to plan for the next leg through Antarctica, although Mira won’t be able to join Freeman in Antarctica due to travel restrictions. After that, they plan to head east to explore Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia.
“I’ve taken months-long trips before, but this adventure is much larger and more encompassing than anything I’ve done,” Freeman says in a media release. “It’s 80 pounds of gear, plus Mira, and camping in all kinds of weather. It will take resilience, but it will be a life-changing experience and I know Mira will keep me going.”
The pair travel around 100 kilometres daily, stopping in towns and villages along the way. Freeman posts photos and videos of his and Mira’s adventures — including meeting locals, camping, bike repairs, and more — on Instagram @mira_la_perra and YouTube @OmniTierra.
“She loves the running and meeting new people,” Freeman says of Mira. “When she’s in her crate on the bike, she takes in the world like a dog with her head out a car window.”
VIDEO: John Freeman and Mira’s Dogpacking World Tour
Freeman has recently launched a website at www.omnitierra.com, and runs a Patreon at patreon.com/omnitierra.
Through his Patreon and sponsorships, Freeman hopes to raise funds for portions of his trip, especially for the Antarctica expedition which will be especially daunting and costly.
Freeman says people tell him that the pair’s journey has been inspiring, especially during the pandemic.
“Some are feeling trapped by COVID or are having a tough time at work, and to see Mira so happy, it gives them a breath of fresh air,” Freeman says. “I feel very lucky to be able to do this and share it with others.”
A certified alpine guide who works as a rope access supervisor specializing in mountain safety and rope access training when he’s not cycling, Freeman has more than a decade of experience with road, track, and MTB bike racing. He began travelling on his bike through different countries many years ago, first with his late dog Melon and then with Mira when she was three months old.
“I enjoy seeing the world and different cultures and different people, in these remote and beautiful places you can only access on a bicycle,” Freeman says. “I want to show viewers that it’s never too late to embark on your own journey, no matter how old you are. Maybe I’ll inspire them to explore somewhere new.”
