Some cyclists ride for pleasure, others pedal to stay in shape, and a select few climb aboard their bikes for different reasons altogether.
Falling into the third category would be Ian Kallay, a 20-year-old college graduate who passed through Dolores on July 13.
Cycling to raise awareness of sex trafficking in the United States, Kallay had already traveled more than 1,500 miles by the time he arrived in Dolores.
Even so, the Dayton, Ohio, resident did not appear tired as he spoke of halting child sex-trafficking in the United States, which, according to the New York Times, claims at least 100,000 victims each year.
“I was dumfounded because we look at the United States as being this great country and this oasis,” said Kallay. “The fact that (sex trafficking) is happening here made me want to step up and do something.”
Initially unsure of how he could make a difference, Kallay decided to ride from Dayton to San Francisco to shed light on the sex trafficking problem.
“I was trying to think about what I could do that I was passionate about to raise awareness,” said Kallay. “Biking ended up being the thing.”
Throughout the journey, Kallay’s younger brother, Shane, has followed him in a support van that contains spare bikes, camping gear and other and equipment.
Sleeping in campgrounds most nights, both boys have relished the opportunity to see the country and together described the experience as transformative.
“The views have been my favorite part so far,” Kallay. “Being on the road day after day, it’s amazing.”
While Kallay remains unsure of how much longer the trip might take, he stated that he is currently ahead of schedule and hopes to arrive in San Francisco within the next 20 days.
After arriving in San Francisco, Kallay plans to continue speaking to people about sex trafficking while pursuing his Masters in Engineering Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Wright State University.
Kallay’s brother, Shane, will return to Pennsylvania, where he attends school at Edinboro University.
Those interested donating to Kallay’s cause or learning more about sex trafficking in the United States can visit www.iankallay.com.