Record Setting Cyclist Rides for Hunger

Ryder Murphy, the youngest cyclist to complete the Seattle-To-Portland bike ride, is partnering with Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank and Community Services to raise awareness and donations to help fight hunger in the Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula communities.

In 2017, Ryder was the youngest rider to finish the Seattle-To-Portland (STP) bike ride. Hosted by Cascade Bike Club, the STP is a nationally renowned annual event held every July that attracts upwards of 10,000 participants and traverses 204 miles. Ryder was just seven years old and rode a child- sized Specialized Hot Rock bicycle with 20” wheels and six gears when he set the record. This year, he plans to ride again ... but his mission is even greater.

During the ride, which begins in Seattle on July 14, Ryder wants his cycling adventures to be more than just a personal accomplishment. He wants to make a difference. He believes everyone should have enough food, especially kids and their families. “I want to use my abilities to serve others. I’m a kid...but kids can help!” Ryder wants to convey that everyone can make a difference in the lives of their neighbors.

Ryder, a student at Artondale Elementary, and his dad started their cycling adventures when he was only three yrs old riding 14 miles on a Specialized Hot Rock fixed gear bike with 12” wheels. At age five, he clocked 50 miles on the Burke Gilman Trail, and at age six, 78 miles on the same trail. He has completed several bicycle events hosted by the Cascade Bike Club, including the annual Chilly Hilly ride last February. Ryder’s enthusiasm for bicycling is equaled only by his appreciation of the treats and snacks that he enjoys during and after every ride.

During the upcoming Maritime Gig on June 2, Ryder will begin his partnership with Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH by riding in the parade with the GHP FISH van. Volunteers of all ages will be passing out treats and information.

Ryder and his family not only want to bring awareness to hunger, but they would like to help raise funds for the local food bank. For over 42 years, the all-volunteer non-profit has been assisting folks in Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula with food and financial assistance during emergency circumstances. In 2017, 3,984 families (9295 individuals) were served by the food bank, which distributed $ 575,613.07 worth of food, along with over $125,000 in financial aid. Ryder is accepting donations for his neighbors in need through the Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH website at http://www.ghpfish.org/STPRyder.html.

To follow Ryder as he prepares for and participates in the STP bike ride, check out his Instagram page @Ryderonabike.

For more information about Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank and Community Services visit our website at www.ghpfish.org, follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/GigHarborPeninsulaFISH, call us at 253.858.6179, or email us at GHPFISHMedia@gmail.com.