This came down the pipe from the National AJET mailing list. -ed.
The Peace Pedalers are Jamie Bianchini and Garryck Hampton. I met them on Sado Island, off the coast of Niigata Ken, 11 days after they arrived at Narita Airport. They plan to ride for the next 3-5 years through over 100 countries. But it is not just a world mountain bike tour that they are doing. They aim to create a positive impact on the places that they pass through by touring on two tandem bikes.
"Cycling brings people of all cultures, abilities, ages and genders together!"
These bikes have two seats each, enabling Jamie and Garryck to pick up guest riders. Locals, tourists, hitchhikers, anyone who has an interest in what they are doing, even if they have never ridden a bike before, can ride with them. Their guest riders can join them for a few hours or even a few weeks. Jamie and Garryck will cook for them, take care of their lodging, and even make sure they get back home. They will also visit Special Olympics offices round the world to raise awareness and funds for these athletes.
They will be doing the ride in 3 major "stages". They started in April 2002 with a warm up and equipment-check ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles. They had just started the first stage of their Mongolia to New Zealand ride when I met them. Their fundraising involves their personal savings, sponsorship and products that can be purchased on their website. They are about 40% funded at present, enough for their first 18-24 months. They have a goal of $85,000, so they still need around $51,000.
"We hope to make a difference in the world, one pedal stroke at a time!"
You can find out more, make donations, buy their products and contact them through their website www.peacepedalers.com. Also check out the OutdoorSIG article on them at www.outdoorjapan.com.
