October 26, 2006
La Salle University Professor Robert Vogel’s Cycling
Helps Benefit Others
Biking isn’t just a hobby in the eyes of Robert Vogel. Riding an average of 80 miles a week during the summer -- which is more than most people drive – the La Salle University professor has found a way to make his passion benefit other people.
Recently, the La Salle professor of Education participated in his third Multiple Sclerosis City to Shore Bike Tour for Blue Bell resident Jerald (Jersey) Brownstein, who was diagnosed with MS 15 years ago. “I think it’s best to ride for a particular person, because it gives meaning to what you are doing,” said Vogel.
To raise money for the race, Vogel and his wife Marlyn, who live in Elkins Park, emailed friends and family asking for support. “Sending a check was the easy job, actually riding in the race was more difficult,” said Vogel. Their goal for this race was to raise $2,000 dollars. They raised nearly $5,000.
Because he works out six days a week, Vogel didn’t need to do any special training for the race. “I like to use my DVR to catch up on my favorite television shows while I work out,” said Vogel. He also bikes and ocean kayaks during the summer, and plays tennis all year long. The Vogel’s also go on bike vacations, and have biked through France, Austria, and Guatemala.
“I like long distance biking vacations because it allows you to explore out of the way places that most people never get a chance to experience,” said Vogel. “Additionally, it allows you to meet people from small towns and villages and to appreciate the uniqueness of the country you are visiting.”
“I ride my bike,” Vogel added, “because it is fun and is something that I love to do.”
The next “big ride” for the Vogels takes place in May of next year. It is a 286-mile bike tour through Israel, starting in Jerusalem and ending in Eilat. About 200 participants will be riding to help an environmental and peace group that raises money for peace and sustainable development by bringing together students from Israel, Jordan, the Palestinian Authority and North America to study environmental issues.
A recent recipient of La Salle’s Faculty Distinguished Service Award for contributions inside and outside of the classroom, Vogel stays active in La Salle’s community by co-directing the Leadership and Global Understanding program and taking students on many overseas travel/study trips. The next one is planned for India.
“I love working at La Salle because it is a wonderful place to spend your life and to be involved with students year after year,” said Vogel, who has been a professor with the University for 35 years.
-- Theresa Sherlock |
