The longest charity ride in the world took off from the University of  Texas campus Friday morning.  The Texas 4000 ride  includes 45 bike riders committed to raising funds to fight cancer and raise awareness by making the long trek from Texas to Alaska. With a  police escort, they made their way through downtown Austin making stops at Livestrong headquarters, and Jack and Adam’s Bicycles shop. These young people are really inspiring as they accept the challenge of a 70 day ride without really knowing what lies ahead. As they prepared for the mental and physical challenge, they engaged in a Ride Dedication Circle, pictured above. Trading stories about why they are doing what they are doing and sharing their individual inspirations. Almost everyone of them without fault had someone close to them who had been impacted by cancer. I wish them all the best on their journey and hope their summer ride is safe and successful. Watch their story tonight on KXAN Austin News at  6pm with Jim Swift.

http://www.kxan.com/dpp/news/local/texas-4000-rides-again?ref=scroller&categoryId=20000&status=true