Lifestyle

CEO Completes 2,000‑mile Ride From Mexico to Canada, Raising Over $766,000 for Small‑Town Communities

By TOI World Desk

Matt King, the 36‑year‑old CEO of Gobundance, had never considered himself a cyclist. After seeing a friend run a charity race across Texas, he decided to undertake a cycling challenge from Mexico to Canada, covering roughly 2,000 miles, to raise money for people in rural communities. King’s original plan was to finish in 13 days and raise $1 million, but he completed the ride in 12 days, one day ahead of schedule, and raised more than $766,000.

King’s preparation began after he bought a new bicycle, training under Colorado professional cyclist, endurance coach and sports nutritionist Joey Hassett. He cycled on an indoor trainer at his Texas home, often starting at 4 a.m. to finish before his wife and three young children began their day. Over five and a half months of training, he faced challenges such as torrential rain, 30‑mph winds, a broken cycling shoe, and a support van that broke down 13 times.

During the ride, which began on May 27, King and his team stopped in towns to identify people in need by speaking with residents and businesses. They distributed financial support to more than 70 individuals and organizations, with gifts ranging from $100 to $75,000. Examples of aid include a $20,000 check to Amy Hernandez, a substitute teacher in Dilley, Texas, to help her purchase a new car for her son with autism and epilepsy; a $10,000 check to Maci Johnson and her husband in Hico, Texas, to help cover medical expenses and a down payment on a larger home for their son who requires an amputation; and a $36,000 donation to a couple in Kansas who lost their home in an electrical fire.

King’s team also provided community support, such as buying breakfast for an entire diner in Arkansas City, Kansas, and giving $200 tips to the wait staff. The ride’s final stop was at Daisy Mae’s Café, where locals gathered for breakfast after a rainy morning.

Reflecting on the experience, King said the greatest lesson was the impact of listening to people. He noted that many recipients told him the team did not need to help them, to which he replied, “I know we don’t need to, but we get to.” King plans to continue the Gobundance Foundation’s work, aiming to help small towns in America and worldwide in future initiatives.