‘Badge of honor’: Two Portland men cycling across America for charity stop by Bend

(Update: Adding video, comments from Nationwide Ride participants)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Two men cycling across America are almost home, but still have a tough finish ahead of them. 

Chris Ray and John Bladholm rode down Highway 20 in Bend on Thursday, heading towads their final destination, and visiting family. 

However, even getting to Oregon is something many did not think the men could do. 

"A lot of people said we couldn't do it -- that was the last motivator,” Bladholm said.

Ray and Bladholm are part of what's called The Nationwide Ride.

The two Portland natives started cycling in New York City, and plan to finish their journey in Pacific City, Oregon, traveling 65 to 95 miles per day, by bike.

"So it's kind of like a badge of honor to put your body through it,” Ray said. 

But they're not riding just for glory or personal achievement. 

They're accepting donations, hoping to raise $500,000 for numerous charities.

Their trip is separated into seven 500-mile stages, each with its own set of nonprofits.

The seventh and last leg features two youth-based organizations, The Harrington Family Foundation and The Maurice Lucas Foundation.

With Joey Harrington, a former Oregon Duck, and Maurice Lucas's son, an Oregon State Beaver, Ray and Bladholm decided to make a challenge.

Whichever foundation receives the most donations during this last leg, the pair will then donate an additional $7,000 to that organization, and $3,000 to the loser.

"You back your Ducks (or) you back your Beavers," Bladholm said, "and let's raise a lot of money for these two awesome people."

Bladholm said he noted a feeling of anger in society the past year and he wanted to get out and meet people, while doing something positive.

"What has happened is, we've met incredible people,” Bladholm said. “We can tell you there's still a lot of really good people out there that want to do the right thing and help others."

The two still have a tough final stretch.

"Coastals and the Cascades -- they're not small,” Ray said.

But they are looking forward to celebrating with their loved ones on the beach at Pacific City.

"Then we're gong to give our bikes away, 'cause we'll never ride them again!” Bladholm said, laughing with Ray.