'I'm certainly not super human:' 80-year-old man treks 800 miles on bicycle for Habitat
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WPDE) — It was a crisp, sunny Friday morning in Socastee, as 80-year-old John Farr put on his bicycle gear outside Habitat for Humanity of Horry County ReStore.
"Here we are just cranking it out," laughed Farr, as he prepared for his 800 mile Bike 2 Build ride. "Spending the whole day outside like that is really a nice experience.”
This is his 20th ride for Habitat for Humanity and the longest one for the Pennsylvania native.
He's traveled from his hometown to Chicago in the past, as well as other shorter rides. His wife Catherine said he even rode coast-to-coast, but he was accompanied by a friend. For this journey, Farr is riding alone.
He said it's important to spread awareness for the organization.
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“I think a family that lives in a decent home has a crack at a better life," said Farr. “I think habitat is a real foundation building organization, a real contributor of the well fair of our nation."
Farr's 14-day trip, starts in Horry County on Friday morning. His first leg he plans about 70 miles. He said he hopes to average about 10 miles for each hour he's pedaling.
“I’m really into wildlife," said Farr. "So I'm looking for birds. I'll stop for interesting road kill. I'm sort of a wacky person maybe.”
He said it takes a few days to get settled on his bike. He said manuvering away from roads with heavy traffic can be difficult. But it's a task he's willing to take on, as he tries to inspire others.
"I'm certainly not super human or anything. I’ve had a hip replacement. I’ve had heart surgery. I’ve had prostate cancer," explained Farr.
Starting as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity in his hometown of Clearfield County PA, he's now president of his chapter.
Farr has raised more than $23,000 last year and more than $100,000 in his two decade rides.
