Cross-Country Cyclist and Author, Steve Garufi, Visits HSU

Abilene, Texas — Steve Garufi, author of “Under a Triumphant Sky: A Bike Across America Story,” visited HSU to share his experiences and lessons learned from two solo cross-country bicycle rides.   

His book, published in 2014, chronicles his experiences from his first cross-country trek in 2008. Garufi has since completed a second cross-country ride and now regularly speaks with groups about the benefits of cycling, fitness and healthy living, and fulfilling personal dreams.    

During his visit to Abilene Feb. 28th through March 1st, Garufi spoke with students at Hardin-Simmons University about his experience and cycled with them. In addition, Garufi visited Biketown and visited with fourth graders at Austin Elementary School. 

He will meet Tuesday with sTEAMboat Cycling and Abilene Bicycle Club members, give a presentation at the downtown branch of the Abilene Public Library, and give a presentation at the Rose Park Senior Center. 

Garufi’s visit in Abilene is co-hosted by the Hardin-Simmons University Leadership Studies Program and The Live Well Coalition of Abilene and Taylor County. 

In 2013-2015, students in the Leadership Studies Program completed long-distance bicycle rides across Texas (www.BikeRideAcrossTexas.com) as a way to develop leadership, teamwork, and organization skills.  In 2016, HSU students will complete a 1,700 mile ride from the border with Mexico in Del Rio, Texas to the border with Canada just north of Grand Portage, Minnesota.

Through the Bike Ride Across Texas, the HSU Leadership Studies Program also works as an “advocate” for the President’s Challenge (presidentschallenge.org).  President’s Challenge advocates (part of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness) help spread messages in their communities about the importance of active lifestyles, physical fitness, and healthy living. 

The Live Well Coalition is a collaborative project between the Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District, Texas Healthy Communities, Age Well Live Well Abilene, and the members of our community to create a culture of health and wellness that is equitable for all community members (www.awlwabilene.com).