Crawford in final stretch of 2,200 mile bike ride
Pat Crawford, executive director of WUWF Public Media, is willing to do anything to raise awareness for public radio and raise funds to ensure the sustainability of the university's beloved radio and television station. In 2007, he walked 1,000 miles from Jacksonville to the National Public Radio (NPR) headquarters in Washington, D.C., raising more than $25,000 for WUWF Public Media. In the sequel to his extreme fundraising adventures, Crawford is in the final stretch of a 2,200 mile bike ride from Pensacola to Ontario, Canada.
Pat Crawford, executive director of WUWF Public Media, is willing to do anything to raise awareness for public radio and raise funds to ensure the sustainability of the university’s beloved radio and television station. In 2007, he walked 1,000 miles from Jacksonville to the National Public Radio (NPR) headquarters in Washington, D.C., raising more than $25,000 for WUWF Public Media. In the sequel to his extreme fundraising adventures, Crawford is in the final stretch of a 2,200 mile bike ride from Pensacola to Ontario, Canada.
“I am retracing one of the original Underground Railroad routes used by American slaves to escape from the South to freedom in Canada,” said Crawford. “This trip is as much a history lesson as an adventure.”
Currently in Ohio, Crawford will trek through Pennsylvania before crossing Niagara Falls as he enters Ontario. So far on his journey, he has enjoyed camping outdoors, eating at mom-and-pop cafes and meeting friendly strangers. While the personal memorable experiences are enough to make the trip worthwhile, Crawford’s ultimate purpose is to raise awareness and funding for WUWF Public Media. He hopes to surpass the $25,000 raised during his 2007 hike.
“I am making this journey because I believe that public radio is a national treasure that must be nurtured,” said Crawford. “Individuals and fans of WUWF can pledge support by sponsoring a specific number of miles, a state or a waterway along my journey. And, every penny raised is going directly to programming on WUWF; I am covering all of my expenses (food, equipment, supplies, lodging) with my own money.”
During his trip, Crawford is sharing his experiences daily through an online journal and also providing updates on WUWF 88.1 FM twice daily. Supporters are invited to ask questions and share comments online and by calling into the radio station.
Crawford will complete his journey in mid- to late-May when he reaches his final destination of Owen Sound, Ontario, 200 miles north of the U.S.-Canadian border. For complete details and to follow Crawford during his cross-country adventure, visit wuwf.org/events/bike09.shtml.
Written by Jaimie Woodard, University Marketing Communications
