Coast Guardsman undertakes 1,600-mile bicycle journey

SAN PEDRO, Calif. — Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Michael Walker is currently on a 1,600-mile bicycle trip during the month of August from Long Beach, Calif., to Seattle.

"Riding keeps me fit," explained Walker, a boatswain mate stationed at Maritime Safety and Security Team Los Angeles-Long Beach, "and it's a great way to relax and get all the day’s stress out of me."

Cycling also helps Walker meet the rigorous requirements of being part of a Coast Guard. MSSTs are specialized, anti-terrorism units charged with keeping the country’s ports, harbors and waterways safe.

“Cycling helps me with being stationed at an MSST, which is a higher tempo unit where physical fitness is a bigger factor,” said Walker.

Walker, along with his brother, began the journey on Aug. 1, 2011. They plan to ride on coastal roads, eat at restaurants along the way, and camp at night.

“My brother and I have been riding all our lives and wanted to do something long distance that involved camping,” said Walker.

Walker was inspired at a young age to become a cyclist by his father, who raced mountain bikes. Walker has now been cycling for 20 years and reaps many benefits from his passion.

Walker and his brother plan to take the entire month of August to complete their trek.

To see more photos of Walker, click HERE and HERE.

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