Utah Couple Completes Epic Cycling Journey for Charity on Anniversary

Robert and Bliss Sawyer, a couple from Saratoga Springs, Utah, marked their 40th wedding anniversary with an ambitious cycling journey across the United States. Starting on June 20, 2026, in Bellingham, Washington, the couple completed their 87-day adventure on September 12, 2026, reaching Ocean City, New Jersey. During their journey, they covered a total of 3,634 miles and climbed over 96,000 feet, all while raising approximately $23,000 for two community charities: Habitat for Humanity and Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry.

The Sawyers initiated their ride to combine their personal milestone with a mission to raise awareness and funds for affordable housing and food assistance. Bliss, a mortgage loan officer, has been passionate about improving access to stable housing, while Robert, a retired exercise physiology professor, has volunteered with Tabitha’s Way, which assists families facing food insecurity. Their initiative, named Hope Across the USA, was documented on their website and garnered media attention from local outlets like KSL.

Their route took them through several states, including Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, before finally arriving at the New Jersey coast. Averaging about 48 miles per day, their longest ride reached nearly 70 miles, while the shortest was around 20 miles. They adapted their accommodations based on the terrain, spending nights camping, in hotels, and with hosts through a hospitality network for touring cyclists.

Preparing for the Journey Ahead

The couple’s extensive cycling experience, which began in 2000, prepared them for the physical and mental challenges of their cross-country journey. They had previously undertaken shorter rides and cycling holidays, but this trip required sustained effort and teamwork over nearly three months. They encountered various obstacles, including mechanical issues and challenging weather conditions, but also embraced the slower pace of travel, allowing them to connect with communities along the way.

Athlete Spotlights

One particularly challenging moment occurred after a navigation error led them onto a steep, rocky trail, forcing them to push their bicycles. This experience highlighted the importance of communication and understanding in their partnership, reinforcing their ability to work through difficulties together.

Reaching the Atlantic was not just the completion of a physical challenge for the Sawyers; it symbolized their shared commitment to community causes and the power of personal milestones to inspire positive change. Their journey serves as a testament to how passion for cycling can be intertwined with philanthropy, making a difference in the lives of others while celebrating significant life events.