As the second year of Tour de Fresh approaches in October, California Giant has two new riders for the roster of produce industry members that will make the 275 mile journey from Hickory, NC, through the Smokey Mountains into Atlanta. The ride begins Oct. 19 to benefit the United Fresh Produce Association’s Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools campaign and each participant has a goal of raising $5,000 with overall plans to raise twice as many salad bars as they did in 2014.John Knappe

On any given day in Watsonville, CA, California Giant’s two new riders — John Knappe and Serjio Sanchez — are training during their lunch hour. Both employees use that time to ride in and around town contributing to the over 100 miles a week they are both putting on their bikes, soon to be closer to 200 miles a week as October approaches.

Knappe, inventory assistant at California Giant, has been riding both road and on mountain bikes for over 12 years recreationally as part of a local cycling club.  “The Tour de Fresh provides the opportunity for me to test myself to a challenging multi day ride through beautiful landscape all while raising funds for a worthy and healthy cause to bring salad bars to school cafeterias,” he said in a press release.  Serjio Sanchez

Sanchez, sales associate at California Giant, began riding for health and fitness after he ended a minor league baseball career 20 years ago. He enjoys riding with friends and fits in his rides during lunch and after work to get his 100 to 120 miles a week on the bike.  “With a family at home I have to juggle my time and get my miles in when I can, but I am really looking forward to supporting my company in this initiative and help kids eat better when at school,” he said in the release. ” This has already been a life changing event for me with my diet and weight, and I see it taking hold with my family and friends I am riding with as well.”

“We are so excited to see such tremendous industry support for Tour de Fresh and the excitement each rider is bringing to the group event," Anthony Gallino, vice president of sales, said in the release. "Last year was epic and we look forward to a completely new and different experience this year on the East Coast. Both John and Serjio are most excited about making new friends in the industry that love cycling and that are passionate about supporting this cause to get more fresh produce in the hands of kids."