Cyclists Enter Home Stretch Before Sea to Sea Ride

One more week. That’s how much time remains before 27 cyclists from two Canadian provinces and four U.S. states take to the streets of Southern Ontario in a mass fund-and-awareness-raising campaign known as Sea to Sea.

Over the course of six days, the cyclists will ride 581.2 kilometers (361.4 miles) stopping in Ancaster, Niagara Falls, Dunnville, Brantford, Guelph, and Oakville.

While some of these riders have been avid cyclists for some time, many are new to the sport and have been spending the past few months training for this exciting journey.

Why are they doing it? Because they care about helping God’s children.

“Sea to Sea is a nomadic village made up of many people who care about taking action to fight poverty,” explained Sea to Sea tour manager, Terry Barnes. “It isn’t about the cyclists, but is about a desire to obey God and help the least in the world.”

Leading up to the tour, the cyclists have been actively fundraising to raise money for World Renew, Partners Worldwide and International Justice Mission.

As of today, they have already raised more than $45,000 and they hope to exceed $54,000 before the ride starts next week.

During the tour, they will also raise awareness in host communities and along the route about the needs of those in poverty both within Canada and around the world.

“Sea to Sea is a unique ministry opportunity for the church to take God’s message of hope to the streets,” said Barnes.

“Imagine the witness of riders traveling the roads, towns and cities of North America. Day after day, people in churches, restaurants, gas stations and shops will meet these riders whose goal it is to glorify God through sharing his message of compassion and redemption.

“The hope being that all who see and hear them will be called to action by the story of the Church riding to fight poverty.”

Riders will be supported by a group of volunteers who help to set up camp, prepare meals, haul gear, and clean up along the route. They will also be cheered on by family, friends, churches, and community members along the way.

It isn’t too late to support this effort.  Most of the riders have a fundraising page that you can visit to make a financial donation in support of their ride. If you don’t know a rider, consider supporting someone from your hometown or province/state.

The name of the riders and links to their websites are available by visiting here and scrolling down the page.

If you live in one of the areas, you can show up along the tour route to cheer on the riders and show them your support. No matter where you live, you can uphold the riders and volunteers in prayer throughout the event.

A second Sea to Sea bike tour made up of 41 riders from five provinces and five states will also take place five weeks from now in Western Canada.