Cyclists pedaling cancer awareness message through Clovis

Staff report

On a journey twice the length of the Tour de France, a group of cyclists hope to show the grueling quest which is the fight against cancer, while bringing a message of hope to those with the disease.

Known as the Texas 4000, the cyclists — all of whom are also University of Texas at Austin students — departed from Austin May 31, and will be pedaling their way through Clovis on Thursday.

“This ride comes with some obvious physical demands and perhaps less than obvious emotional demands,” said Texas 4000 Executive Director, Jen Garza in a Texas 4000 press release. “It’s incredibly encouraging for the riders to be supported by the people of Clovis, and have the opportunity to share their stories about how they pursue this ride in hopes of living in a cancer-free society.”

Originally a group of 79, the cyclists split into three smaller factions that will follow different routes. The 4,500-mile, 70-day bicycle ride will lead all cyclists to Anchorage, Alaska.

According to the press release, during their trip, the cyclists will volunteer at events that support the fight against cancer. They will visit cancer survivors, cancer patients, caregivers and family members in order to make presentations about cancer prevention and early detection.

The riders will also share personal stories to those fighting cancer as well as to those who have been affected by the disease.

Fast facts

What: The Texas 4000

When: Thursday

Information: http://www.texas4000.org