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Cycler goes coast-to-coast for pets

September 20, 2001

Driving across the country in a car can be a challenge in itself.

But imagine riding a bicycle all the way from Santa Monica, Calif., to Washington, D.C.

Lutrell Christian, a 1973 MSU graduate, is doing just than in an effort to raise $1 million for Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation in San Francisco. La Russa is the manager of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team.

Christian started his journey at the end of August and is currently in New Mexico. He’ll stop at his alma mater sometime in the next few months.

Two weeks ago and one day before his 50th birthday, Christian was in Globe, Ariz., and said he was feeling well.

“Physically I’m doing fine - so far I’ve gone 650 miles,” he said. “I’m averaging about 50 miles a day.”

Christian’s journey, Pedaling 4 Pets, is a one man, 14-state, 100-day cycling marathon. He’s traveling along historic U.S. Route 66 and plans to make stops in 13 states along the way.

“The mission of Pedaling 4 Pets is to dramatically elevate the American public’s awareness of the excitement in providing a lifetime of love and care for all companion animals,” he said in an e-mail.

“This is something I’m serious about, and I’m willing to put my heart on the line. This is something I chose to do, and I hope people are willing to work with me for some donations.”

During his ride, Christian is raising awareness for the humane treatment of pets and is encouraging people to ride with him. He challenges MSU students and faculty to ride with him from East Lansing to Lansing.

Christian said leaders of the Animal Rescue Foundation were excited about the idea. They’ve pledged their support and are working to set up a meeting with La Russa for him when he comes through St. Louis.

This isn’t the first time Christian has done something for pets. He invented a special electronic dog tag, which has identification as well as veterinary medical information.

Dave Diamond, a close friend of Christian, said he wouldn’t put the idea of bicycling across America past him.

“Lutrell’s effort is one thing that sets him apart,” he said. “From the West Coast to the East Coast, he will stop to visit with everyone. He’s trying to make everyone he can involved.”

Diamond, a 1995 MSU graduate and California attorney, met Christian during a softball game. Diamond, who keeps in contact with Christian every other day, said the nationwide journey might not be practical for anyone but him.

“This might be impossible for most people,” Diamond said. “There are few people who have a vision to change things, and he cares about everyone besides himself.”

When Christian pedals his way back on to MSU’s campus, he plans to visit the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Linda Chadderdon, spokeswoman for the college, said anyone raising awareness about the treatment of animals should be honored.

“We admire anyone who’s committed to the humane treatment of animals,” she said.

For more information on Christian’s progress or to make donations to the cause, visit www.pedaling4pets.org.

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