Matt Bosman rides 1,000 miles for World Bicycle Relief

While the rest of us were enjoying Labor Day weekend with our friends and family, Matt Bosman set out to tackle the 1,000 mile Michigan Circle Tour on his bicycle. While on training rides around Chicago, Matt would see signs marking the route and wondered to himself if he could complete the daunting ride.  Determined to complete the challenge, Matt aimed to finish the ride in 10 days while fundraising for World Bicycle Relief. Matt planned out every aspect of his trip, down to the last ounce - “I traveled light, with no tent, camping stuff, or extra clothing.  My bike gear, nutrition and maintenance equipment was all I took and I analyzed every ounce.  I only carried enough to fit into a small saddle bag and that was it”, Matt says.

Averaging 100 miles a day, Matt completed the tour in 10 days, raising over $1700 for World Bicycle Relief. According to Matt, “This trip was about more than just a bike ride.  It was about helping others though personal sacrifice. When things got tough I would think about those who supported the ride and WBR and did not want to let them down so I was able to push on.”

Aside from his amazing fundraising total, Matt also spread awareness about the necessity of access to basic mobility in the most remote regions of Africa. During a quick rest stop, Matt had the chance to chat with a woman who was unaware of the tremendous impact a single bicycle can have in the hands of a young schoolgirl. The woman asked for more information and a link to his fundraising page. Upon his return, Matt was amazed to see that “she had donated an additional bike” adding that  “the generosity of others is truly beyond belief."

For Matt, the most memorable part of the trip occurred on the last day “when I rounded a corner and saw [Chicago] again. That was the first time I knew that I would actually do it.  The feeling of reward, accomplishment and personal pride were so overwhelming it almost brought tears to my eyes.”

What an incredible journey, Matt. Thank you for sharing your passion with us and transforming lives through the Power of Bicycles!

View more photos of the epic ride at Matt's blog >