Santa Barbara – Renowned cyclist, speaker and author Risa August is set to return to the Central Coast this week to complete the final segment of her epic cross‑country bike journey. After a wildfire forced her to bypass the 30‑mile stretch between Gaviota and Santa Barbara several years ago, August will ride the route on October 4, accompanied by a newly graduated UCLA film team.

Finishing what she started

August began her coast‑to‑coast ride several years ago, pedaling from Canada to Mexico while documenting her battle with a brain tumor. The trek, chronicled in her award‑winning memoir and screenplay The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike, was interrupted when a wildfire closed the Gaviota‑Santa Barbara corridor. Rather than abandon the effort, August vowed to return and finish the missing miles.

Documentary partnership

The upcoming ride will be filmed for a documentary titled The Final Thirty. The UCLA crew, fresh from graduation, will capture not only the physical challenge of the ride but also the broader theme of completing a long‑term goal and finding closure. The film aims to inspire viewers to persevere through setbacks and to trust in God’s guidance, reflecting August’s Christian faith and commitment to family values.

Community support

Local residents have expressed enthusiasm for the event, seeing it as a celebration of resilience and a reminder of the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. The ride will pass through several beloved neighborhoods and scenic coastal vistas, offering onlookers a chance to cheer and pray for a safe journey.

How to get involved

Those who wish to support the UCLA film team can contribute via their GoFundMe campaign, which helps cover production costs and ensures the documentary reaches a wider audience. Additional information about August’s work, upcoming speaking engagements, and the documentary can be found on her personal website.

Looking ahead

August’s story underscores the power of faith, family, and determination. By completing the final thirty miles, she not only fulfills a personal promise but also provides a living testimony that challenges can be overcome with perseverance and divine support. The event is expected to draw both longtime fans and new supporters, reinforcing the Central Coast’s reputation as a community that values inspirational stories and strong family foundations.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.