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Cyclists from the KMC embarked on a three-day bike trip Aug. 1 to 3 along the Rhine River in Germany to raise money and awareness for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education programs.
The Cycle for STEM proceeds gained by sponsors before the 150 mile trek from Bonn to Ramstein, Germany, helped provide scholarships and grants to deserving STEM students and teachers.
“We brought Cycle for STEM to Europe with the intent to help improve the local Department of Defense Dependents Schools here,” said Master Sgt. Etienne Tousignant, lead cyclist. “These children are our legacy, and we want them to have the knowledge they need to take our place one day.”
With the goal to improve education, the team was motivated to work long before the 150 mile journey to prepare themselves.
“All together we logged hundreds upon hundreds of miles training and getting our bodies ready,” Tousignant said. “There was a lot of sweat and a lot of sun, but it was worth it.”
Though strenuous, the enthusiasts pushed through their Cycle for STEM adventure.
“Never in my life have I seen anything like this,” Tousignant said. “There seems to be gorgeous castles at every corner. There are luscious vineyards across the mountainsides, and, of course, the Rhine River is breathtaking. I have done this ride four times, and every time I see something different that amazes me.”
With children of his own, Tousignant hopes to continue participating in these fundraisers and help pave a better future for them.
“My boys are my legacy,” Tousignant said. “It feels great being able to help improve their lives and seeing how excited the team is to do the same is incredible. Some didn’t get to train, and some had to pay out of pocket because they weren’t able to raise enough money, but everyone here was inspired and motivated to push themselves for other people.”
For more information on participating in future Cycle for STEM events, visit www.kmcafcea.org.
