“Dogpacking” cyclist hopes six-year trip around the world spreads positivity and inspiration

CANMORE, ALTA February 11, 2022: Alberta man John Freeman, 51, is documenting and sharing his worldwide cycling trip with his dog, Mira, on YouTube and Instagram with an aim to inspire others and gain a larger following as they travel by bike through all seven continents over the next six years.  

Currently, Freeman and Mira, a four-year-old Border Collie-Heeler mix, are preparing to make their way through Central and South America, then head back home to Alberta to plan for the next leg of the journey through Antarctica (Mira won’t be able to join 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,” says Freeman. “It’s 90 pounds of gear, plus Mira and camping in all  kinds of weather. It will take resilience, but it will be a life-altering experience, and I know Mira  will keep me going. She loves the running and meeting new people. When she’s in her crate on  the bike, she takes in the world like a dog with her head out a car window.” 

On his YouTube and Instagram channels, viewers catch snippets of Mira, known to her followers as the “adventure puppy who brings good vibes”. Freeman captures beautiful scenery  and vlogs about his stops in towns and villages, meeting the locals, camping, bike repairs and  lots of Mira content. Together they ride approximately 100 kilometres a day. 

“People tell me it’s become a bright spot for them, especially during the pandemic,” Freeman says. “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. I feel very lucky to be able to do this and share it with others.” 

“You can’t buy more time in life. It’s a courtesy,” he continues. “I enjoy seeing the world and different cultures and different people, in these remote and beautiful places you can only access  on a bicycle. 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.“ 

Freeman is preparing to launch a website and recently introduced an optional subscription  service for his followers on Patreon to help fund portions of the trip. His stint in Antarctica will be especially daunting and costly, but he hopes to gain sponsorship in return for great video  content that takes viewers along the road less travelled.  

John and Mira can be found on Instagram at @mira.la.perra and on YouTube at @OmniTierra.