A year ago this week I began this magical mystery tour I’m calling my Around the World in 80 Sporting Events project. It came with the blessings of both my wife of 30 years, Carol, and our financial advisor. That I still am in relationships with each of them means things must have gone alright during Year 1.
And, from where I’ve been sitting – which has mainly been in the cheap seats! – it’s gone far better than alright. I made it to 18 of my Jules Verne-inspired 80 events during Year 1 and with three more in rapid succession in the coming weeks, I feel as though I’m on track to make it to my ultimate destination around the time I turn 60 (summer 2027).
None of this is possible, however, without a heck’uva lot of support and that’s what today’s post is all about. Taking a moment to look back on the past year and offer plenty of gratitude to those who’ve contributed to this experience and enjoyment in some manner.
Financial Support
In Kind Support
Travel Companions
- Anonymous Donor
- Carol Borom
- Tim Parker
- Luisa DiLorenzo
- Brandon Hill
- Jerry Hill
- Wendy Modena
- Mike O’Connell
- Ray Setlock
- Steve Wochaski
- AZ Sports Cards
- Brian Brantley
- Frank Burger
- Nathaniel S. Butler
- Rob Byrd
- Kevin Costello
- Jason Fink
- Kevin Grover
- Scott Heller
- Kenneth Herbart
- Kevin Hickerson
- Brandon Hill
- Carol Hill
- Helena Hill
- Jake Hill
- Jerry Hill
- Joe Hilliard
- Jim Jaissle
- Scott Jewson
- Maury Koffman
- Colin Lancaster
- Geoff Larcom
- Matt Martin
- Mike McClary
- Stephen Miller
- Mike O’Connell
- John Pakledinaz
- John Pleasant
- Macker Wilson
- Wayne Wilson
- Rob Byrd
- George Fox
- Kevin Grover
- Scott Heller
- Kenneth Herbart
- Kevin Hickerson
- Brandon Hill
- Calah Hill
- Carol Hill
- Griffin Hill
- Helena Hill
- Jerry Hill
- Maury Koffman
- Stephen Miller
- Tim Parker
- Macker Wilson
- Wayne Wilson
I’d love to add your name to one of these lists. If you’re near one of my 80-ish events and want to tag along or simply get together to talk about the weather, life, or sports, I’m ready for it. You’re able to contact me at hilldouglast@gmail.com. And, if you’d like to lend some financial support, I’ve learned the art of “never saying no.” You’re able to do so at the button below:
The fine folks at Mosaically (which I used to created the mosaic at the top) crafted a lovely video of the image. The teaser for it is found below but you’re able to view the entire video at this link.
