Why We Decided to Bike across the US:
When we tell our family and friends that we plan to camp and bike for seven weeks, covering a distance of 3,300 miles (5,200 km.), the reaction we most often get is “Why?!”.
· Explore the USA – Both of us spent a good part of the last decade in the US, working and studying in various cities on the east coast. However, despite the many years that we spent living there, we had little opportunity to get a true feel for the rest of this vast country. So, we started thinking about a cross-country tour.
· Be Physically Active – In choosing our “vacation” plans, we thought it important to take advantage of the fact that we are young and healthy. This how the vision of a bike tour began to take shape.
· Have a Purpose – Taking two months to bike around seemed a bit too lavish, so, we started looking at ways to make our ride serve a clearer purpose. That is why we researched different non-profit organizations' rides.
We were delighted when we stumbled upon the American Lung Association's "Big Ride". The Association fights lung disease through healthcare programs, educational programs, governmental lobby, and research funding. A significant portion of their effort is focused on children and on creating an environment that prevents lung disease before it has a chance to develop (children’s anti-smoking campaigns, air quality regulation lobby, etc…).
The American Lung Association organizes offers us exactly what we were looking for; an active trip across the US that helps a good cause. So we decided to join their fundraising bicycle ride across the US. The fundraising has already benefited the Association. Now we will leave the big cities behind and glimpse into the American countryside from our (we hope comfortable!) bicycles.