Patricia has been riding her bike everyday around the foothills of Santa Barbara for years.

But today is unusual as she mounts her 24 speed bike to embark on her daily ride, because today the training includes a long haul from her home in the Santa Barbara foothills to Gibraltar peak in the nearby Los Padres National Forest, a steep climb and descent of over 3,500 vertical feet and a total distance of about 20 grueling miles round trip.

Why all this training? Because this summer Patricia will be riding across America to raise funds for her music scholarship endowment fund.

The cross country trip will take 50 days and will cover almost four thousand miles requiring an enormous amount of endurance, stamina and determination. A daunting undertaking for anyone but here’s the kicker...Patricia will be 67 years young at the time.

Because of her age and the distance involved, Patricia will be attempting to set a Guinness World Record as well.

"But the world record is just icing on the cake" says her husband Gabriel who is a certified massage therapist, former auto shop owner and currently in real estate and who will be accompanying her as part of the support team, albeit in the comfort of the family van.

"My wife has always had music in her heart and cycling in her soul" he went on to say, "but to be able to accomplish this life’s dream while at the same time raising funds to support a music scholarship, well that’s what this is all about" he added.

Patricia has a BA degree in education and performance, is an accomplished classical concert pianist and also plays trombone in a local Band. She also teaches piano and sings. Her other interests include tennis and golf.

But it doesn’t stop there. In addition to her musical talent and physical fitness, Patricia truly looks half her age and exudes a radiance that most of us would sell our souls for. She is often sought out for advice on how to stay young and healthy and look it.

"Over the years I have developed a life style that includes healthy eating, relaxation methods to reduce stress and a special regimen of skin care techniques" says Patricia who is happy to share her secrets with all.

Although Patricia regularly rides in events along California’s central coast, she says "This cross country challenge will be my longest ride attempt by far but I feel prepared and am training hard every day"

To raise funds for the scholarship program Patricia is seeking corporate sponsors as well as pledges for each mile she completes from friends, family and any others who admire her energy, drive and positive outlook.

Any amount is welcomed . "It will really give me the boost I need when pedaling up a steep grade knowing I am helping so many people help others" Patricia's goal is to raise $22,000 as this is the amount needed to send the $1,000 a year scholarship to a performance major into perpetuity.

Those wishing to make a pledge should contact Gretchen Hewlitt by phone at 805-897-3537 to receive Patricia's personal brochure or mail a donation directly to the Foundation For Santa Barbara City College, 721 Cliff Dr. SB, CA 93109-9968.

All donations are 100% tax deductible.