Follow this group of cyclists as they undertake the world's longest annual charity bike ride in a glorious and noble effort to fight cancer.
Cancer has affected virtually everyone. It's probably safe to say that we have all had our lives impacted by the scourge of cancer, whether it be through family or friend. 69 cyclists are putting forth an incredible effort this summer to raise money to fight the disease, by biking from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska - more than 4,000 miles over 70-plus days - in an inspirational group effort.
The Texas 4000 is the world's longest charity bike ride, and one of its most successful. To date the nonprofit organization has raised and donated more than $7-million in the fight against cancer.
But they do so much more than simply ride the roads from Austin to Anchorage. This is an annual project that is interested in "cultivating and engaging communities" along the way. Three groups of riders take different routes to Alaska, bisecting the nation through the Southwest, the Rocky Mountains and the Midwest.
Along the way the riders will fund raise and "make stops...to present grants to cancer research and treatment centers such as Dell Medical School, MD Anderson, and Huntsman Cancer Institute." They'll share their own stories, listen to others tell their stories of how cancer has impacted their lives, and connect with communities by spreading a message of Knowledge, Charity and Hope.
"These young men and women are inspirational leaders in the fight against cancer," said Scott Crews, Executive Director of Texas 4000. "Because cancer has touched them or someone they know, they are committed to raising funds for cancer research and support services, helping to make a difference in the lives of others."
You can learn more the 2017 Texas 4000 - and follow along with the riders, connect and even donate - at their website.
For example, one young rider, Reghan Conrey, a sophomore at UT Austin, had never ridden a bike before joining Texas 4000. But she was so moved by her time spent at the MD Anderson Cancer Center that she felt compelled to do something positive to combat the disease.
Reghan's going from zero biking experience to riding over 4,000 miles! You can donate to encourage her effort or others like her at the website.
Here's a highlights video from last year's Texas 4000, offering just a peek at what the riders and the communities they visited experienced.
If ever there was a worthy, feel-good and inspirational charity effort, this is it. Not only are these young people riding for a good cause, but they are becoming the leaders this country needs.
Like what you see here? You can read more great articles by David Smith at his facebook page, Stumpjack Outdoors.
NEXT: Yellowstone Visitors Asked to Take the 'Safe Selfie' Pledge When Entering Park
https://rumble.com/embed/u7gve.v3tpbx/
