Fanshawe Professor to Bike Across North America

John Vandersteen, professor in Fanshawe's School of Manufacturing Sciences, is gearing up to cycle across North America to help those living in poverty. The "Sea to Sea: Ending the Cycle of Poverty" tour, presented by the Christian Reformed Church, begins June 28, 2008 in Seattle, Washington. A group of approximately 200 cyclists will bike across the United States and part of Canada over nine weeks, ending in Jersey City, N.J. on August 30.

The hope is to raise awareness of the plight of the poor and advocate for justice on their behalf. A goal of $1.5 million has been set to support organizations engaged in fighting poverty. Money raised will be donated to Partners Worldwide, the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, Christian Reformed World Missions and the CRC Foundation.

"This is the largest cross-continental tour ... it covers nearly 6,700 kilometres," says Vandersteen.

Participants will bike 63 days and cycle an average of 107 kilometres a day. A team of volunteers will follow for support hauling gear, repairing bikes, helping in meal preparation and campsite set-up.

"Everyone takes turns cooking, it's all about team work and supporting each other," explains Vandersteen. "We have 18 year-olds and 80 year-olds. To see the two interact, cycling for the same cause, it's great to see."

When asked about training, Vandersteen describes daily cycling, biking courses and group riding. He also recounts his first Sea to Sea cycle three years ago that spanned Vancouver to Halifax.

"Don't get me wrong, I love to cycle," explains Vandersteen. "But what I really like about the tour is the cause. It gives you a sense that what you're doing is worthwhile."

Cyclists will travel through London on August 2, 2008, nine days before the trek finishes at the end of the month, and Vandersteen plans to stop in at the College to see co-workers that day. He has been with Fanshawe over 19 years, after all.

Those interested can track riders, watch videos, listen to podcasts and read cyclists' blogs. Donations can be made throughout the summer, online or otherwise. Please visit www.seatosea.org for details.