We caught up with Renato and Renato Jack Costanzo in Missoula, Montana. They are the Brazilian father and son duo who are on a 25,000-mile adventure road trip across the Western Hemisphere. Taking a westerly-route across the United States, they’ve managed to cover over 3,500 miles in their modified all-new 2011 Jeep® Wrangler. We got the chance to ask them about what they had been up to since they started their trip back in June from Miami. Take a look at what they had to say:
Q: Tell us how the journey’s been so far.
A: Our primary activity along the way has been skydiving. We have visited Chaco Canyon, New Mexico and Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Q: Tell us about the skydiving and mountain biking adventures along the route.
A: We have jumped in Deland, Florida; Houston, Texas; Moab, Utah; Star, Idaho, and Eden North, and in Alberta, Canada. We’ve had only one opportunity to use the mountain bikes. That was in Mesa Verde around the camp area where we were parked.
Q: What have been the obstacles and challenges you and your son have had to overcome?
A: Except for having to change a windshield and repair the new one after three days (because of rocks kicked up by the cars in front of us) we have had no problems so far.
Q: What has been the reaction of the people you’ve visited along the way?
A: Everywhere we go, from gas stations to restaurants and drop zones, people have approached us. The Jeep Wrangler 4×4 with the roof tent, trailer, and the bicycles on top of it is just too much for anyone to let go without asking something. When we show them the map and extent of the expedition, the most common question is “Really? Is it possible?”
Q: What has been the most awe inspiring part of the journey so far?
A: I think we will have to get back to Mesa Verde National Park and learn more about the Anasazi people. Arriving at the cliffs and seeing the ancient ruins and how they constructed them so many centuries ago is unforgettable.
Right now, Jack and Renato are headed to the U.S.-Canadian border towards Calgary on their way to their most northerly destination, Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. We’ll check back with them later to get the latest scoop on how their adventure is going. In the meantime, you can go to www.americas2011.com or follow them on Twitter at @Americas2011 for the latest updates on their adventure.