Cycling for Fitness and Charitable Awareness!
A few years back, a coworker of mine introduced me into to world of road cycling. I didn't know too much about it other than the fact that big names (then) like Lance Armstrong, won several Tour De Frances. I grew up in an era dominated by BMXs so road biking/road cycling was a small blip on my radar. That quickly changed after I was asked to my very first long distance charity ride and ever since then I was hooked. I always loved being active and enjoying the outdoors and cycling was a perfect opportunity for me to experience both.
Fast forward five years later and I'm now on my second bike with countless miles under my belt (or should I say my man tights), I've made numerous friends and I've turned a leisurely hobby to a competitive endeavor (currently preparing for a duathlon, triathlon, and several bike tours). Last but not least, cycling gave me the opportunity to step up my sense of charity. Now I'm no Bill Gates with millions at my disposal to donate to charity but I'm proud to say that I've done many bike rides that helped raise funding and awareness for downs syndrome, multiple sclerosis, cancer research, local safety, community improvement, and the list goes on.
Nothing feels more gratifying than testing my limits to help those in need. As a side note, I have a downs syndrome sister and if there's anyone in my life that helps me endure through the physical rigors of training and event completion, it's her. I ride for me, I ride for her, and I ride for those that need a voice behind them.
So, for those wondering what a charity ride is like, I can sum it up in three words - fun, challenging, and extremely rewarding. Just as an example, the last ride I did for the 2017 season was Bike MS NYC, a bike event that raises awareness and funding for multiple sclerosis research. I rode with a team of twenty plus riders but only three of us decided to punish ourselves on the one hundred mile route that started in NYC, crossed into NJ via the Holland Tunnel, rode up northbound parallel to the Hudson River, and ultimately looped back down the same way into NYC. At five thousand feet of elevation gain, it was no leisurely ride. Despite the challenge, it was such an awesome experience. The weather was perfect, the scenery was absolutely amazing, the friendship and camaraderie I experienced with my friends as well as other riders on the road was contagious, and in the end it all went towards a good cause.
How could I forget but shoutout to fellow Steemer, a good friend, and one of my donors for MS - evolved08gsr
Him and his wife were one of the first to donate to my fundraiser. Not to mention they donated a very generous amount =) Very thankful for him and his family!
If you've got a cycling or event story you'd like to share, please do! I'm all ears!
Also, words can't explain the amazing views I described above so here are some pics below straight from my buddy Gopro!
West Side Highway (Henry Hudson Parkway) starting line
Riding through the Holland Tunnel into Jersey was pure awesomeness!
View of NYC from Jersey
Riding through one of the many reservoirs in North Jersey.
Due to construction on the George Washington Bridge, we had to do a little walking before riding across back into Manhattan.
I just couldn't help but take a selfie.
Back in NYC and making our way downtown.
Done, done, done! Now I want my free beer!
Here's a link to my ride video:
And now shots of my steed. Couldn't help myself from showing it off haha.
Stats:
carbon frame - Specialized Tarmac
carbon pedals - Shimano Ultegra
carbon wheels - Mavic Cosmic Pro
carbon handlebars - S-Works Aerofly
carbon seat - Specialized Toupe
carbon bottle cages - Ican cages
lightweight aluminum stem - FSA Energy
drivetrain - Shimano 105
crank - FSA Gossimer pro
tires - Mavic Yksion Pro
GPS unit - Bryton 310
Beautiful road bike! It's an addictive sport, isn't it? And Bravo to your cycling endorsors for some great causes, keep up the great work! Do you cycling using Zwift during the cold winter months or are you braving the elements?
Thank you thank you! Cycling is definitely addictive and it's become one of my favorite exercises. I know several friends I ride with use zwift but I've yet to jump on. I've just been using my gym's spin bikes and my bare bones basic indoor trainer to keep my legs fresh through the winter months. Are you a Zwifter as well?
Yes, I've only recently joined and it is very addictive - it will never replace the outdoors but I think it passes the time much faster. Highly recommend.
My friends keep urging me to get a smart trainer. I'm that much closer to pulling the trigger but I do see myself spending more time outdoors snowboarding and such so that's the only thing that's making me a little hesitant about spending money on a smart trainer...
I hear ya, its a costly expense. I went with the magnetic train from STAC Performance, it was reasonably priced, quiet, and with the speed sensor, it connects to Zwift.
I was torn between spending the cash on the trainer or spending it on clothing. Ultimately, I chose the trainer to avoid the unnecessary wear and tear that the elements of the Vancouver weather will do the groupo - I think if you're already quite outdoorsy and will be hitting the slopes enough then why spend the cash? I'd rather be outside but I'm forcing myself to focus on one sport at a time, otherwise I may drive my wife insane lol.
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That's a lot of Bike time.. I would probably die of cardiac arrest halfway through ... hmmm ... a quarter of the way through a race!
Props for doing these races for charity! That shows strong character and dedication :)
Bro, I had to update my post and give you and your family a proper shoutout for your support and generosity. You all rock! And I disagree about you not lasting past a quarter mile. You got boost within you just like your Evo.....Miss my evo =*(
No need for the shout out. Thank you :)
Research for MS is a great cause and I'm hopeful there's a cure in our lifetime. I have a family member that's been affected for as long as I can remember and a friend from college (who's only 30) was recently diagnosed with MS.
There's some really great research and treatment now, so I'm hopeful for the future of ending MS!
I believe that you miss the Evo, then I also believe that you love the new car more! All for different reasons. Creature comforts are sooooooo nice to have. Where the evo has 1.. those butt-hugging seats lol