Randall Lewis completed his ninth ride for charity on July 3, with his bike ride beginning at 2:01 a.m. at the Circle K in Columbia and concluded at 3:15 p.m. in Slidell, La.
Lewis said his day actually started at midnight. The previous day, all provisions except for the bicycles were loaded onto the back of the truck. Once he put the bikes on the bike rack that Saturday morning, he took the time to focus on himself in an effort to be ready.
After leaving his home at 1:30 a.m., he picked up Herbert Jefferson to drive his truck along with Jefferson’s wife, Loretta.
With Jefferson leading the trio in prayer, Lewis’ confidence rose and the first leg of the journey began. Early in the trip, just shy of Cheraw on Mississippi 35 South, Lewis experienced a low front tire, something he has never experienced so early in the ride. After replacing the wheel, he continued his trip and reached Angie, La. around 3:30 a.m. After stopping long enough to take some pictures, he continued to Varnado, where he took his first break at 4:28 a.m.
At break time, Lewis took 15 minutes to rest, stretch and to rehydrate himself before heading to Bogalusa, La. He reached Bogalusa at 5:48 a.m. and met his photographer, Ashley Landry, there as the daylight was coming upon them. Lewis continued his trek not stopping for another break until he reached Louisiana 21.
They arrived in Covington, La. around 10:01 a.m. and took an hour break. Lewis said it was much needed as he was beginning to ache in his legs. After eating a small meal and allowing his food to settle, he continued along Louisiana 36. He said that stretch was long and boring. The only town on this stretch was Abita Springs. Along this stretch, he took two short breaks as well before cycling into Pearl River County about 2:33 p.m.
The ride was coming to an end with about nine miles to go. He said the miles seem longer as it gets closer to the end. Eventually he saw the Slidell, La. sign and knew his ride was complete. After thanking God for a successful trip, the group took some pictures before heading out to eat to celebrate.
Lewis is very grateful for the people of Columbia who have supported him for years with his rides through prayers and financial support. He also thanks his associates at Walmart, including the store manager, Mike Lowery, and also Herbert and Loretta Jefferson and everyone who has followed him.
From the ride, Lewis raised $8,000, and the funds were distributed to Children’s Hospital and the schools for the blind and death.
He said if it’s God’s will, he plans on ride No. 10 next year.
