U.P. Challenger 3985

As I was leaving the YMCA on Firday after swimming 2200 meters (thank you very much), I listened to a message from John about an old steam engine pulling through town.
From Union Pacific's website
"Union Pacific Challenger No. 3985 was designed by Union Pacific and built in 1943 by the American Locomotive Company. It is one of 105 Challengers built for Union Pacific between 1936 and 1943 and is the only operating engine of its class in the world today – the largest and most powerful operating steam locomotive."

John was already in St. Paul checking it out and asked if we wanted to come down. We made it to the bridge over a train yard right about the time that it was supposed to pull though. It was stopped about a mile down the tracks refueling. There were lots of other engines pulling through and a few big freight lines to watch as we waited. Luckily there was a huge field just on the side of the bridge so we frolicked a bit. Many other train buffs were present, they were a very friendly sort and it was a really neat feeling of waiting and anticipation.
It took almost 2.5 hours, but we finally saw it. And it was really neat. Sorry no pictures, the camera was at home the whole time. But it was a lovely afternoon, sunny warm and breezy, Perfect.