Darin Farough of Clarkston faces 300 miles on a bicycle to make wishes come true for terminally ill children.
Building strength is just part of his training.
“Just as important is building endurance ? getting seat time in a bike,” said Farough, 45, training for the Wish-A-Mile Bicycle Tour, a three-day ride from Traverse City to Chelsea to raise funds and awareness for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan.?”You have to toughen up to be able to handle 5-6 hours a day in a saddle for three days.”
More than 800 cyclists and 200 volunteers are working on the July 23-26 fundraiser, the foundation’s largest.
Previously a casual biker, his training started seriously in May and he now rides at least an hour every other day.
“I feel stronger,” he said. “It’s been a good experience so far. The program is really run well ? it’s neat to meet people and keep track of everyone’s progress.”
To make a pledge, go to www.wishmich.org/Page.aspx’pid=503&frsid=3993.
“It’s tough ? we are in Michigan,” Farough said. “But I should be able to hit my goal.”
Last year, the ride funded 202 wishes to Michigan children facing life-threatening medical conditions. Goal this year is funding 250 wishes.