While many of us are doing good to ride 20 miles a week, it appears that much of Fort Worth was inspired to ride a lot more after meeting Mr. Jeong Kyu Park – 5000 miles into his trip around the world. Mr. Park is from South Korea and started his trip in March, arriving in Fort Worth in early November.
During his visit, BikeTexas Outreach Coordinators Byron de Sousa and KC Jones took Mr. Park to visit Bicycle’s Inc. to meet former TBC LOC Gilberto Linares. We wish to thank Bicycle’s Inc., Gilberto and KC for generously providing front panniers and winter clothing for Mr. Park’s long, winter ride to NYC.
“I’m concerned about Mr. Park because winter is around the corner and I know how cold it gets in the Northeast.” expressed KC.
Everyone was thrilled to meet Jeong and KC jumped at the chance to introduce him around. She recognized the unique opportunity to help inspire children to cycle by taking him to Silver Lake Elementary school in Grapevine, a BikeTexas Safe Routes to School participant. This school is currently embarking on a virtual bike trip to NYC. Principal Dunn bases progress on staff and student participation in making walking, cycling and exercise a priority in their lives. The students were very excited and asked lots of questions.
Next, it was off to the Texas Trails Convention that happened to be meeting in Grapevine the same day. The group was thrilled to have such an inspiring surprise visitor. They graciously took up a collection to donate money for food and lodging since he is riding without sponsorship.
Mr. Park said he decided to ride after reading a book about such a trip. His motto is “A Ride Around the World in Search of Hope.” In his quest he asks a few people every day to write in his journal to explain their meaning of hope. Mr. Park blogs his journey on his Koren website which is also host to many amazing and inspiring photos from his travels. www.KYULANG.net.
“Anyone with a sense of adventure can’t help but envy what Mr. Park is doing. What an amazing physical accomplishment! You really have to have a kind of bravery mixed with faith to take on such a fearless goal. Mr. Park’s ride around the world has touched me. I have to admit I am now looking into how I can ride farther than I ever imagined before.” shares KC.
KC Jones can be contacted for details or with questions in regards to Mr. Park at 817-205-2595 or kcjones@biketexas.org. TBC encourages everyone to spread awareness about this adventurous journey to help encourage cycling in your own communities. Video and photos available upon request.
