From Austin to Anchorage, Cyclists Raise Money for Cancer Research
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — From the Lone Star state to the Last Frontier, 69 University of Texas students pedaled more than 4,500 miles in 70-days, completing the 10th annual Livestrong Texas 4000, the longest charity bike ride in the world.
“We had a lot of wind, 110 degree days, foggy days, we had rainy days, but in the end we all had each other,” said rider Kelsey Fall, Anchorage native. “We got through every day because of the people that we fight for.”
Throughout the 70-day journey, participants battled the elements and tired legs, while spreading awareness, prevention and inspiration in the fight against cancer.
“Our goal is to spread hope, knowledge and charity everywhere we go,” said Fall. “We stop and give programs, we meet people, we share their stories everywhere we go.”
The ride started back on June 1st in Austin, Texas, from there, riders broke up into three groups, taking three separate routes up to Alaska, raising more than $470,000 along the way.
Participants started training for the event last fall, meeting throughout the year to organize the trip, fundraise and reach out to communities.
Since 2003, the Livestrong Texas 4000 has raised more than $4-milllion for cancer awareness.
Published August 9, 2013
By: Blake Essig