David Lannes is a stroke survivor, cyclist, and retired software developer who has transitioned into a substitute teacher. At 64, he's on a mission to inspire kids through a 1,400-mile bike ride from Virginia to New Orleans, blending faith, education, and adventure.
Hi, I'm David Lannes, a 64-year-old New Orleans native, stroke survivor, and former nuclear software developer turned substitute teacher. I live in Short Pump, Virginia, with my wife, Tisha, and we have four children and three grandchildren. I ride my bike daily and share stories with students across Henrico and Hanover counties, including how I once biked 5,760 miles across the country while studying to be a Catholic priest. Now, I'm gearing up for a 1,400-mile journey from Glen Allen to New Orleans, combining my love for cycling, teaching, and inspiring young minds to dream big, learn geography, and believe in the power of perseverance.
Recently a student in my 3rd grade class at Rivers Edge Elementary School asked me this question after I shared the story of my ride of 5760 miles across America one summer and the upcoming ride of 1400 miles from Short Pump, Virginia to New Orleans, Louisiana. It was a great question and as I reflected on it a number of things came to mind. The "challenge" of doing something not very many people have done or would even attempt to do especially when a lot of people doubted that I could complete it surely motivated me when I was 27 years old. I am very proud of that accomplishment in my life. A chance to see the United States up close and personal on a bike is something you can only appreciate when you do it! A chance to "inspire" the students I teach when I substitute and help them to dream past the everyday things and know that nothing is impossible if you believe in yourself! A chance to reflect on my life and pray for all the people who have been part of it and helped me become the person I am today. Now the challenge is a little different at age 64. A lot of people still think I am crazy for even trying to do it but I am training both physically and mentally. I will create another adventure in my life and will meet KIND people along the way and of course I get to eat a lot hamburgers and french fries! I am so BLESSED!
