John Patterson ’82 lent some of the Christ School spirit to a 3,600-mile bike ride in the summer of 1982.
Fresh off graduation, the Greenie was well outside his comfort zone when he set out on a coast-to-coast trek with 30 other teenagers to raise money for multiple sclerosis research. The PBS documentary series “Shadow of a Wheel” recounts the experience with interviews from the participants, including John.
Can one bike ride change your life?
— PBS North Carolina (@MyPBSNC) June 24, 2023
Follow the story of 31 teens who embarked on an epic bike trip in 1982 to raise money for multiple sclerosis in Shadow of a Wheel. Coming to PBS NC July 6. #ShadowOfAWheel pic.twitter.com/3ZY4U8uXMC
John's bio on the series website reads as follows:
“Even though he had no camera on the bike trip, John Patterson pursued a passion for photography and worked as a studio photographer for years. He now manages a coffee distribution company in Asheville, N.C., while also finding time to ride his many bicycles on the roads and mountain bike trails. He believes that “there is inherent risk in taking a two-wheel journey” and that the ride has encouraged him to take more risks in life and achieve his goals.”
“Shadow of a Wheel” is a four-part series produced by Asheville’s Bonesteel Films. New episodes have been coming out every Thursday and can be viewed online at www.pbsnc.org/watch/shadow-of-a-wheel.
At the time of the ride, John had never cycled more than 40 miles. However, he told the Asheville Citizen-Times that the fundraising would be tougher than any physical exertion. Before saddling up, riders had to come up with $5,370 (which would be equivalent to $16,891.09 today). Half the funds went to fight MS with the rest used to cover the trip's expenses. Any other sponsors were asked to donate at least a penny a mile or $36.
The ride began in Long Beach, Calif., and ended in Cape Hatteras, N.C., taking 56 days total.