A marine biologist is cycling all the way from Mexico to Whistler in hopes of bringing attention to climate change.
Annie Ford set out on the solo and daring two-month-long journey on May 27 and plans to ride her bicycle over 3,000 kilometres.
“I'm having the best time. I'm very, very lucky, very privileged to be here, really and it's all just a whirlwind of disbelief,” says Ford.
During her trip, she got off the bike for a break and spoke to Glacier Media over a video call to explain why she was cycling.
“I am using it as a fundraiser to stop new offshore oil and gas [projects], specifically the largest seismic blasting project ever proposed,” she says of proposed seismic testing in Australia's Southern Ocean. “It’s something that is very near and dear to my heart."
She will climb mountains and travel along coastlines, stopping to camp overnight and find food as she makes her way up to Canada. Her trek aims to raise awareness on climate action and fundraise for charities.
"I remember thinking, 'It's just me. What can one person do?' And collectively, it is phenomenal the impact we can have,” says Ford.
Ford lives in Queenstown, New Zealand but is an Australian. Working as a marine biologist and environmental volunteer, she explains how she sees the impacts of degradation on the oceans.
“I've always had a really strong connection to the ocean,” says Ford.
She set out to raise AUD$10,000 for Surfrider Foundation and Otway Coast and Environment Action Network but has surpassed that goal. Currently, she has rasied nearly AUD$17,000, roughly C$15,391.
"Both of these organizations are the primary organizations working against this big seismic blasting proposal and I wholeheartedly believe in their work and they are significantly underfunded,” says Ford.
Being on the bicycle instead of working as a biologist allows her to have different conversations and speak to people she might not have been able to.
"The bike really does cross large demographics and I'm not preaching to a choir out here. I'm getting genuine questions, ones that I've never had before,” she says. “It's really important for me to be exposed to the many beliefs."
She is completely solo in the journey and is flexible in her days and schedule.
“I make sure I get from A to B and make sure there’s enough food stops.”
When it comes to the most difficult part of the ride, she admits wildlife is front of mind but locals have offered lots of helpful suggestions.
“People are so helpful, so generous, so they will go so far out of their way to help,” she says.
Ford is in high spirits and as of July 3, she is on day 31 of her journey and made it to Tillamook, a city in Oregon.
“What a privilege that we get to be in these environments in these spaces, and I'm glad to be on the ground getting firsthand experience.”
She hopes her journey will also encourage other people to stand up for what they believe in, no matter what it might be.
“It is the most fulfilling thing I've ever done. It brings purpose, it brings direction and I couldn't design a better life. I'm amazed every day,” she says.
She is planning to arrive in Whistler during the last weekend in July. You can follow Ford's journey on her Instagram page.
