Lucus Keppel

Power of Bicycles

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My Activity Tracking

506
kms

My target 540 kms

Pedaling 335 Miles to Change Lives

In rural Africa, a bicycle is one of the most reliable ways to transport people and cargo. They never run out of fuel, and can aid in reaching further and faster than a person on foot. That's the power of bicycles - and I think that together, we can help provide them to people in need.

As a pastor, I believe in putting faith into action. That's why I'm cycling 335 miles along the C&O Canal and the Great Allegheny Passage trails in May 2025 - to help raise funds for World Bicycle Relief. I'll be carrying everything I need for the journey on my bike, showing solidarity with those who travel this way out of necessity.

My goal is to raise at least $1,650 - enough to provide 10 life-changing bicycles to individuals in rural communities in Africa and South America. Every $165 raised puts a brand-new, sturdy bike in the hands of someone who needs it, empowering them with reliable transportation and cargo carrying ability. 

If you sponsor me at $1/mile, that would be enough for 2 bikes! But any amount donated will help. Please consider donating and sharing this page with others who may want to make a difference.

Together we can help change lives, two wheels at a time! Thank you for your support!

My Updates

Hello Pittsburgh!

Sunday 4th May

R&R complete, back on the trail!

Saturday 3rd May
After a day of recovery from the unplanned and unpleasant night ride, I was too far behind schedule and too exhausted to keep to my original plans of riding up the steep incline into Frostburg. The scenic train, that I thought might also be a way to skip just the incline, sadly no longer allows bikes. So, I adapted, and took the train to the halfway point on the GAP - Connellsville. 

The train was delayed for several hours, but I met a wonderful couple who were also waiting for the train. They were setting out on their first long bike trip, and it was lovely to get to know them a bit. God provides, even when in the midst of stress and trouble! 

I rode into camp, and got setup, but it was long after midnight. 

Today's ride was much shorter, though - greatly facilitated by taking the train to the middle! Still, I rode to the planned campsite, arriving in good enough time to greet the couple I'd met on the train, as they rode the other way! 

Stats: 
Daily miles: 35
GAP Milepost: 122
Total trip miles: 220

Rains can't keep me down!

Friday 2nd May
Day 3 was a long day in the saddle - 67 miles in the light, then 17 in the dark and rain, when there was no other way forward. I'm glad to be at the halfway point, in Cumberland, as I now switch from the C&O Canal to the Great Allegheny Passage!

Thanks to everyone for your continued care and support along the way. When things don't go according to plan, I always know that I am loved and supported, and that makes a huge difference! 

Day 3 - 84 miles on the trail
Currently: Mile 185

Another 50 miles complete!

Wednesday 30th Apr
Day two has ended, just north of Williamsport, with over 100 miles on the trail. 

It's been an absolutely gorgeous day on the Potomac - and I've felt your encouragement strongly! Please keep it up, as tomorrow is a LONG day!

Stats:
Day 2 - 51 miles on the trail
Currently at Mile 101!

Day 1 complete!

Tuesday 29th Apr
I'm resting in my hammock at bald eagle island - and filled with gratitude for everyone who has supported this trip, with donations, prayers, or encouragement. Together, we are making a difference! 

Stats:
Day 1 - 50 trail miles
Remaining: 285 miles
Donations: $575
Prayers: abounding!

Mile 0 on the C&O Canal

Tuesday 29th Apr
The ride has officially started!

On the way to DC!

Monday 28th Apr
I'm writing this post from Terre Haute, IN - where my spouse and I stopped for the night along the way to Washington DC, the start of my ride. It's hard to believe that the week is here - it's nearly time to start the trail! 

Thank you to everyone who has already supported the trip, with prayers, words of support, and donations to World Bicycle Relief. You are amazing! Two bikes funded before I've even left - that's a powerful motivator!

Prairie Spirit Shakedown Ride

Saturday 26th Apr

Thank you to my supporters

$26.50

Annemarie Kessler

$100

Matt Dingo

If we were still in Pittsburgh, we would have met you at the finish. Matt enjoyed following and would have loved to ride with you for half of an 80 mile day. Jen Cushman and Matt Dingo

$146.39

Aaron Green

In honor of my dad, Steve.

$26.50

Anonymous

$520

Anonymous

Bicycles offer so many positive benefits!

$25

Anonymous

$53

David Barnard

$53

Kate

Hugs and encouragement!! Bikes are so vital for life in Africa - thanks for raising awareness!

$26.50

Anonymous

well done Lucus!

$53

Pak & Ibu

Lodging cliffhanger: staying tuned for the resolution!

$106

Robin

Happy to support you and this great cause Lucus! Safe journey Cousin!

$26.50

Kenneth Bailey

Get it my friend

$174.90

Anonymous

$106

Fred And Cindy Levy

Great work you are doing!

$265

Anonymous

Mom and Dad loved to ride bikes on the C&O canal, and would love what you are doing. Well done, good and faithful servant

$26.50

Lucus Keppel