Waco: UT students to bike 4,000 miles to raise money for cancer research
A bright and sunny Texas summer day seems like good time for a casual bike ride. What about a 4,000 mile bike ride? That's how far the non-profit organization 'Texas 4000' will be cycling in order to raise money for cancer research.The group, made up of University of Texas students, stopped in Waco Sunday night to rest after they completed the first leg of their 70 day journey from Austin to Alaska.
"If we can bike 70 days and make it to Alaska, then you can try to quit smoking for 70 days or wear sunscreen for 70 days," said Varun Rajaram, a junior at UT. "So we challenge people with initiatives like this because we understand that we've been given this very unique opportunity to make a difference and so we have to do the most with that, that we can."
These students are making a difference. The 84 person organization has raised just under $600,000 for cancer research. Before the journey each team member is tasked with raising at least $4,500 by themselves.
"When you have the opportunity to do good, and you have the opportunity to be selfless, you should take that opportunity," said Rajaram.
This fundraising and message can mean a lot to those who have been affected by cancer. Like many in the Midway community were after Midway soccer coach, and avid cyclist Patrick Posey died following a battle with cancer last year.
"I think Patrick would have been very excited," said Brady Gibson, a teacher at Midway. "He would have been absolutely supportive of what these guys are doing. And you know it's our hope that the money that these guys are raising will find a cure."
