My name is Channing. I was born November 15, 1981 in Denver, Colorado. After spending a few years in Colorado and then Florida, my family (Dad: John, Mom: Sandra, Brother: Jesse) eventually moved to Texas. With no mountains or beaches for entertainment, I got involved in team sports. My senior year of high school, I began playing rugby and have been in love with the sport ever since. I am currently on the UT rugby team and will be graduating this spring with two degrees: History and Art History. I spent a semester studying in Italy and ever since then, have had the itch to see the rest of the world. In my free time I ride my bike, read, and spend as much time outside as possible.

My grandfather woke up every morning and said "today is going to be a good day." He grew up on a farm in Oklahoma, served in our Navy in WWII, and was the most dedicated family man I have ever been acquainted with. Two years ago he passed away from prostate cancer. It was very heartbreaking for my entire family because he was such a wonderful presence in our lives. He battled his cancer for as long as he possibly could, but it eventually took his life. I saw the pain he went through and wanted to help but felt as if there was nothing I could do but just spend time with him. No matter how much pain my grandfather was in, he still believed everyday was worth living. It is because of him that I wake up everyday thinking to myself that "today is going to be a good day." This trip is an opportunity for me to spread my grandfather's inspiration to cancer victims across the nation. I am honored to raise funds for the education and prevention of cancer. By traveling across the country on our bicycles, we will take an unforgettable voyage spreading hope to those who need it most. I can't think of a better way to spend my first two months out of college.