Some of us dream. Others dream and do whatever it takes to turn dreams into reality. I often imagine driving a classic automobile around America but it will never happen because (a) I don't own a classic and (b) as a do-it-yourself mechanic I'm a total klutz. It is all but impossible to drive an old car long distances without doing roadside repairs. And so I read this tale with awe, admiration, and envy.

Two friends and owners of '47 and '48 Czech Tatra 87's, Gary Cullen and John Long, decided it would be a memorable adventure if a Tatra could dip its wheels into the three oceans that surround North America: the Atlantic, the Pacific and the most remote, the Arctic. Adventure, indeed! The Tatra was designed pre-war as an aerodynamic and technologically-advanced motor car, featuring an air-cooled V-8 with hemispherical combustion chambers and overhead camshafts. Try finding parts on this side of the Atlantic.

Their trip took them across the US from east to west, then up the British Columbia coast to Alaska, back through the Yukon and down to LA, concluding with a cross-country run to Ontario. They encountered bears, sub-zero weather and ice-covered roads, and endured temperatures that didn't go below 100 degrees from California to their final destination in Toronto. During the trip the duo suffered tire problems and mechanical breakdowns that required considerable ingenuity to repair. This is a lengthy tale so before clicking on the URL grab a coffee or a fine old scotch and be prepared to relax for a few minutes. And dream a little. Who knows, it might encourage you to try something similar. But if you need a good mechanic, don't call me.