A group of 25 student and adult cyclists from the Bloomington, Indiana-based deCycles will pedal through Cortez on Tuesday, July 8 as part of a grueling 1,500-mile, 23-day journey from Los Angeles to Denver. On July 8, the group will be hosted by the Cortez Nazarene Church.
According to information provided by the church, the riders, many new to cycling, will tackle deserts in California and Nevada and Colorado’s mountains while averaging 85 to 100 miles each day.
“The teens and adults on this trip are living examples of how spirit moves in what most would think is impossible … 1,500 miles on a bicycle, but the impossible happens every day on the road with this group of student cyclists,” the news release said. “Our principles of kindness, commitment, faith and happiness are the foundation for the strength each rider must possess to get down the road. These riders are truly modern day miracles.”
deCycles was founded 31 years ago and has drawn over 1,600 participants to its long-distance bike ride.
“Rooted in principles of kindness, commitment, faith and happiness, the group views the ride as a pilgrimage, pushing riders to connect with their inner strength and divine spirit amid adversity,” the group said. “This transformative process fosters mental, physical and spiritual development, empowering participants to overcome exhaustion and inspire others.”
Along the way, the bikers stop at various churches where they are given a respite after a hard day’s worth of riding and are given a place to stay. The group will stay one night in Cortez before continuing on their journey.
More information about the group and their stay in Cortez can be found by contacting the Cortez Nazarene Church at (970) 565-7234.
“The event underscores a unique blend of athleticism and faith, inspiring all who encounter the riders,” the group shared.
