The Albright G/T class had a surprise visitor Tuesday morning. Andrew Marinelli trekked to Arkansas from a starting point in Key West on a 6,000 mile tour of the United States on his bicycle. The purpose of his trip is to help fight global hunger by educating students and civic organization of the need and requesting donations and support for the World Food Program.
"I received a phone call from a former classmate asking if this guy could come stay with me and visit my class," G/T Instructor Brent Miller said, adding that he was glad to have him come speak to the students.
Marinelli, a 26 year old from South Carolina, graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2006 with a bachelors degree in biology before joining the United States Peace Corps and becoming a Natural Resource Management volunteer. It was during his service in Niger, West Africa that he discovered his passion for fighting hunger.
While in Niger, Marinelli lived alone in a small mud-brick house in the village of Bilandao, learned the local language of Hausa, which he demonstrated for the students, and worked among the natives, farming and teaching better practices.
"While finishing my time in Niger, I came up with a wild idea to bicycle across America," Marinelli explains on his website, www.onemanonebikeonefight.com. "I thoroughly enjoy pushing my physical and mental limits, and truly believe that the hardest things in life are always the most rewarding."
The six foot nine inch tall former athlete said he "never dreamed of doing anything like this," but has enjoyed every step, with the exception of the head winds that slow his ride time and burn his face. His journey began on April 1 and he plans to continue from Arkansas to St. Louis, Denver, St. Lake City, Montana, Idaho, Washington and then down to his final destination of San Francisco in September.
"This is the most rewarding thing I have done in my life," Marinelli told the students, adding that he is not a cyclist. "I've met tons of amazing strangers who've helped me out."
While on his journey, Marinelli is stopping to talk to anyone who will listen about the effects of world hunger and how much of a difference each donation will make. After cycling 1,704.2 miles, he's raised $1,000.
If you would like to make a donation, visit Marinelli's website at www.onemanonebikeonefight.com.