Mark Metz and Noreen Edwards started the TransAmerica Trail in Oregon (left) and celebrated in Virginia (right), after completing 4,100 miles for the McGaw YMCA Men’s Residence and its upcoming renovations. (Photo credit: Metz and Edwards) EVANSTON, IL — After more than two months on the road, McGaw YMCA Board Chair Mark Metz and his wife Noreen Edwards have successfully completed their 4,100-mile bike ride along the TransAmerica Trail to raise awareness and support for the McGaw YMCA Men’s Residence. They reached the Eastern shore on November 23, and are making their way home to Evanston. “It is deeply satisfying to have completed the long and physically challenging TransAmerica Trail, especially because of our mission to raise funds and awareness for the McGaw Y’s capital campaign to renovate the men’s residence,” said Metz. “As we drive toward home today, my thoughts are scrolling through all the places we have been […]

Mark Metz and Noreen Edwards, shown here crossing into Illinois, have already biked 2,900 of 4,100 miles for the McGaw YMCA Men’s Residence and its upcoming renovations. (Photo credit: Miles that Matter blog) McGaw YMCA Board Chair Mark Metz and his wife, Noreen Edwards, are over halfway through their cross-country bike ride to support the YMCA Men’s Residence housing program and its upcoming renovation. Mark and Noreen set off on August 24, from Florence, Oregon, for a 4,100-mile, self-supported ride along the TransAmerica Trail and have already biked 3,000 miles! Over the past month, they’ve climbed the Ozarks’ steep hills, watched the leaves turn brilliant fall colors, connected with fellow cyclists, and enjoyed local communities along the way. Along the journey, they’ve rested, attended a wedding, maintained their bikes, and even welcomed the newest member of their family! The Ozarks offered countless hills, and together they climbed nearly 3,800 feet