MN man realizes decade-long dream to cross the Americas by motorcycle
(FOX 9) - For the last 2.5 years, Jimbo Tarpey has been on the adventure of a lifetime.
But now, after more than 50,000 miles and two continents, he has realized his dream.
Iconic ride
The backstory:
"It's unbelievable. I really don't know how to explain other than I'm very proud and I'm still in one piece," Tarpey told FOX 9.
FOX 9 first introduced you to Tarpey back in November, as he made his way from Alaska to Argentina on his motorcycle, posting videos of his exploits on social media under "2 Wheels 1 Compass."
He left a corporate job and saved up for his trip for years because he wanted to take the road-less-traveled, and see the world.
"There are Minnesotans that get out and move around in some of the unlikeliest of places, and that's where you were going to find me," said Tarpey.
Since then, Tarpey has come to the end of the Pan-American Highway, pulling into Ushuaia on the southern tip of South America on Dec. 23.
He says reaching his goal was an emotional experience.
"I actually started to tear up. It didn't seem real. I'd been imagining this moment for almost a decade, and it was like this is a measurable moment. I can sit here and take this in," said Tarpey.
A state of flux
What's next:
After his trek, Tarpey left his bike behind and traveled to Antarctica, where he believes he was the first person to take a picture of Minnesota's new flag on the continent.
But he hopes after a couple of months of rest, he'll head back out on the road – this time across Africa.
"It's just been an amazing life-changing and life-defining experience that I can't imagine my life without, and I would like to continue doing it," said Tarpey.
MN man's adventure from Alaska to Argentina
Whether he is navigating the open roads of the Great Plains, braving the frigid temperatures of northern Alaska or searching for the equator in Ecuador, Jimbo Tarpey is on a journey of discovery. His travels have taken him across the Americas to experience the wonders both man and Mother Nature have to offer.