My Chat with the Fridgeman

Nearly twenty years ago, Tony Hawks, not the skateboarder, embarked on an epic journey that forever changed him.  Not wanting to lose a £100 drunken bet, Tony took on the challenge and hitchhiked around Ireland with his £120 refrigerator.

As someone who is about to embark on a similar journey…. less the drunken bet and £120 fridge, I thought it be best to consult the expert himself.  This is part of our conversation:

Tony explained how the learning experience didn’t take place whilst on tour, but when he was actually started to write “Round Ireland with a Fridge.” He reflected on the experience that changed him, and like he said to me…  “You can’t fail, unless you get killed.”

Tony basically told me to keep my wits and to have fun.  “Your bike is like your fridge.”

This bit really resonated with me.  Tony said that it was ok not to stick with the plan. It’s ok to leave your bike behind if you have to.  “Things that go wrong are often things that create new friendships.” “There’s no such thing as something going wrong.”

I asked about how I should manage that moment I start to doubt myself….    “Why am I doing this?”

Is there anywhere else in the world where you can do this?

Tony talks about his new adventure, Once Upon a time in the West Country where he cycled with a baby pig.  How can you not love this guy!