Profile

About: I'm a second year Mechanical Engineering student at UT with hopes of working with green technologies that will provide a sustainable environment and economy.
I was born in New Jersey but after 7 years moved to England where I spent my childhood. Moving to Austin a month before high school was a welcome change of pace. I've seen much of the world by living in Europe and North America and so far Austin is, by far, my favourite place to live. I haven't seen Alaska yet but who knows - I might just stay there! I ran cross-country and track in high school. GO CHAPS! My father is a self proclaimed 'Ultra Runner'. He has competed in more than 20 major marathons, has run across France (725 miles/18 days) and Germany (800 miles/17 days). (secker.blogspot.com) I have seen his commitment to setting and achieving his goals and want to follow in his footsteps. But I can't forget my mom. She's an avid triathlete and ultradistance runner, currently training for an Ironman - 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26 mile run. Their healthy and fit lifestyle has had a major impact on my life. Needless to say they are an inspiration to me.

Why I Ride

There exists a sad certainty today that everyone knows a victim of cancer.

My life has been affected by cancer in not the usual way. My father's side of the family has had a history of prostate and colon cancer. Detection of cancer in its early stages is vital for defeating it. Both my father and grandfather have had polyps detected and removed almost immediately. Caught early enough these types of cancers are nearly 100% treatable but this was not always the case. Cancer research and detection has already made great strides and hopefully will continue to. The money raised by groups like Texas 4000 has made research, detection and treatment more accurate, cheaper and more available. If it weren't for the progress made in the past 20 years I may not have these two wonderful people in my life.
Cancer research and treatment is no doubt an expensive endeavour so I'm glad I have the opportunity to help raise funds and awareness for Texas 4000. Never before have I been so thrilled at the thought of doing something so exciting for such a fantastic and noble cause. History shows there has never been an ailment our brilliant minds have failed to cure. Given enough time and money - hopefully less of one than the other - I know we can end our collective struggle.