I formed a team this year to accompany me on a quest to raise money for Cancer research. We called ourselves Hope/Gratitude 2012. It was a great weekend of riding from Montreal to Quebec City. Some 1956 cyclists committed to raise money for the event.
Our Jersey, with Dedications to People we were Riding For
Being a cancer survivor, I was touched by the commitment of my team members, all of which had their own stories to tell. Seems like we are all touched by this insidious disease in some way.
Rolling out together at the start amongst thousands of other riders should be experienced by everyone at some point in their lives. It is an incredible feeling, quite hard to describe unless you're there.
Team Hope/Gratitude 2012
We had some great days of riding, lots of laughs, and it seems like we were eating all the time! They told us to stay hydrated and fed. And that we did!
We camped out at the half way point and had to time to reflect on our day, have a few
laughs and drink some free beer!
This little invention on two wheels not only provides an incredible feeling of freedom, but brings people together. I witnessed it in a big way during this event. Not only does it allow us to meet new friends, but it is a symbol of movement, action... making a difference...especially for those people who are not as fortunate to ride due to sickness. We rode for them, proudly...
For some of my team, this was a personal accomplishment as well. Cycling a huge number of kilometers in one day is not easy, and I was so proud to be part of their success... It is quite the feeling to ride over the finish line for the first time, knowing you have achieved a goal that seemed insurmountable at first. I am again filled with pride to be surrounded by so many wonderful... and committed people.
Doug Reaches his first 1000 kms while on a training ride
Early Training Session with the Professor (Ernest, 2nd from Right)
My Team:
Ingrid, Steve P., Steve B., Doug, Tom, Arlene, Mathieu, Kathy
Thanks for riding, and making the commitment to make a difference...
And last but not least, for those who put up with this crazy obsession....
With Thanks, and Gratitude....
