Habitat Bicycle Challenge comes to St. Pius X Parish

Intermountain Catholic

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St. Pius X Parish, Moab, hosts 27 riders and their support crew for the annual Habitat Bicycle Challenge July 13-14. St. Pius X provided a place for the riders to rest before riding to their next destination in Green River, Wyo.IC photo courtesy of Father Rick Sherman, pastor of St. Pius X Parish

by Father Rick Sherman

pastor, St. Pius X Parish

MOAB — St. Pius X Parish, Moab, hosted 27 riders and their support crew for the annual Habitat Bicycle Challenge July 13-14. The riders began their 4,000 mile adventure in May in New Haven, Conn., and will finish in San Francisco, Calif., the end of July.

The cyclists are college students from throughout the United States, and they each raised $4,000 prior to the ride, which goes toward Habitat for Humanity, a national non-profit organization that builds housing for low-income first-time buyers. The buyers are required to assist in building their new homes.

Some of the funds raised are channeled to international affiliates in developing countries. Thanks to corporate support and the help of churches and community centers along the route, most of the money raised by the students goes directly to Habitat projects.

Whether pedaling through the plains or the mountains, the cyclists end each day by presenting an informational slide show in town meetings or community gatherings, thus helping spread the news about Habitat for Humanity.

St. Pius X Parish provided a place to plop sleeping bags, as well as breakfast, lunch, and supper for the riders. They were an inspiring, enjoyable, and appreciative group of young folks to have as guests.

Mayor Dave Sakrison facilitated the use of showers and pool privileges at Swanny Park, which made the stay even more enjoyable. Rather than rest on their day off, members of the group rode Slick Rock Trail, floated the Colorado River, and hiked the arches.