While that would certainly be just as fantastic as this trip, I suspect the main reason for going is going to retire this winter

He's had a horrid year, with all the storm clouds gathering over his prospects for a 2020 season. Pains me to see it slowly happening.
We are doing our calendar for next year at work, looks like I will indeed be free to attend the ride anytime between mid-July and late September. Now just need feedback from other dictating factors.