WATSONVILLE, CA - Tour de Fresh's 2nd annual ride is fast approaching, and come October, California Giant will have two new riders, John Knappe and Serjio Sanchez, on its roster of over 50 produce industry members that will make the 275 mile journey from Hickory, NC through the Smokey Mountains into Atlanta, GA.

The ride begins on October 19, 2015 to benefit the United Fresh Produce Association’s Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools campaign and each participant has a goal of raising $5,000 with overall plans to raise twice as many salad bars as they did in 2014.

“We are so excited to see such tremendous industry support for Tour de Fresh and the excitement each rider is bringing to the group event. Last year was epic and we look forward to a completely new and different experience this year on the east coast,” says Anthony Gallino, California Giant's VP of Sales. “Both John and Serjio are most excited about making new friends in the industry that love cycling and that are passionate about supporting this cause to get more fresh produce in the hands of kids.”

On any given day in Watsonville, California Giant says you’ll be able to see both John and Serjio training during their lunch hour. Both employees have been riding over 100 miles a week and expect to move closer to 200 miles a week as October approaches.

John, Inventory Assistant at California Giant, has been riding both road and on mountain bikes for over 12 years recreationally as part of a local cycling club. “The Tour de Fresh provides the opportunity for me to test myself to a challenging multi-day ride through beautiful landscape all while raising funds for a worthy and healthy cause to bring salad bars to school cafeterias," says John. 

He sees this specific event as an opportunity to do what he loves in a completely new location and make a difference at the same time.  When asked about any lifestyle or diet changes, he said, “I am definitely drinking a lot more water to stay hydrated every day!” 

Serjio, Sales Associate at California Giant, began riding for health and fitness after he ended a minor league baseball career 20 years ago, now working to get his 100-120 miles a week on the bike. “With a family at home I have to juggle my time and get my miles in when I can, but I am really looking forward to supporting my company in this initiative and help kids eat better when at school,” says Serjio. 

When asked how his life has changed due to training for the ride, he said, “This has already been a life changing event for me with my diet and weight and I see it taking hold with my family and friends I am riding with as well.” 

According to a press release, Tour de Fresh released its official training guide last week to help participants learn how to better fuel their bodies as they plan for the 275-mile ride. However, if you are interested in using the guide for their own personal health and fitness plan, this is a great tool packed with tips and recipes that can help before and after you exercise.    

For those interested in supporting one or more riders, or sponsoring the ride this year, please visit www.tourdefresh.com.

California Giant Tour de Fresh