Getting to the competition by bicycle had a distinct purpose.
      Patricia and Gabriel have set up a scholarship fund. This trip was a way to raise awareness and collect donations for the fund. The     scholarships will be given to graduating Wahoo High School students to advance their education in music.
      Gabriel said the road to Atlantic City was not an easy one, but it was evident that Patricia was on a mission.

      "It even brought tears to my eyes at times," he said. "She was climbing up mountains even my van had problems chugging up."
      Tony, who rode his bicycle next to Patricia, is a tri-athlete and bikes to and from work everyday in Santa Barbara, Calif. was also in awe of Patricia's dedication to her mission.
      "The length of the day was tough, riding for nine-hours a day," he said. "She wore me down."
      But, Patricia and Gabriel both said the people they met along the way energized them and kept them going.
      Just like their grand send off in Wahoo, the team also had a spectacular greeting in Atlantic City.
      "We were just in awe on both ends," she stated.
      In Atlantic City, a police escort took them through the city, and they were even allowed to drive on the boardwalk.
      "No bikes are usually allowed on the boardwalk," Gabriel added.
      But special treatment was the norm for the travelers.
      Patricia said there was a lot of media that followed them wherever they went. That meant that people knew in advance that they were      coming.
      Even at a breakfast stop at McDonalds one morning during the trip, she said the staff recognized them.
      "They said 'It's the bike queen, we saw you on TV last night,'" she laughed.
      But no matter where they went, Patricia said there was no better feeling than the one she had at home.
      "We just appreciate so much what everyone did in Wahoo," she added.
      Now, Patricia and Gabriel are hoping that Wahoo can do even more.
      The goal for the scholarship fund is $10,000. As of last week, over half of those dollars had been raised. Most of what has been donated has come from the couple's family and friends in California.
      Gabriel said with the trip to Atlantic City now complete, the hope is that more donations will be received from the Wahoo area.
      "Sometimes there is a concern that things like this are just a publicity stunt," he said. "But, she did it. We're here. She really finished it"
      Anyone wishing to make a donation to the scholarship fund, may send a check in care of the Greater Wahoo Development Foundation, 640 N. Broadway, Wahoo, NE 68066.
      For more information and pictures about the trip, visit www.patriciastarrnebraska.com