Russ Shaw biked 25 miles and Jim Compton travelled one mile, representing the longest and shortest distance covered among the nearly 30 Regis University participants in the annual Colorado Bike to Work Day June 24.

Shaw is an Assistant Vice President for University Relations while Compton is the Manager of Mail and Central Receiving.

Although the participating numbers are around the same as last year, the orchestrator of the Regis University Bike to Work Day effort noted that reasons for participating are different.

"Last year there was a lot more interest because gas prices were much higher," said John Hickey, assistant vice president for Academic Affairs and one of the Regis University participants. "This year people understand that in addition to the physical and environmental benefits and the fun, that biking offers a good option for getting to work".

For Shaw, the ride is not unusual as during the summer he often travels the 25 miles from his Highlands Ranch home to Regis University by bicycle. And he views his ride as a little spiritual retreat.

"It's a quiet, reflective experience," said Shaw. "I like the cool and crisp morning air as I ride along the Plate River Trail. It's beautiful. It's a time when you really know there's a God."

Regis University participants included riders from the University's Lowell (North Denver campus), Denver Tech Center campus and from its office location at Broadway. Participants also wore Bike to Work Day t-shirts.