Novice Cyclist Series: ALC Take 2

Last year was my first year doing 545 miles over 7 days... I myself thought it was crazy but somehow I managed to do it and complete every mile. It wasn't all roses though... Day 6 of ALC 10 I found myself exhausted from 5 days of riding and hitting my threshold. Every mile that day was a challenge, more mental than physical. I remember stumbling into camp and thinking... one more day and then its over. Ha, what a joke. Little did I know it was just the beginning. Before I could barely get my gloves off and wash up I found myself signing a form saying that I will participate in ALC 11?! Was I delerious? Quite possibly. A part of me resisted the thought of doing this all over again and another part of me couldn't imagine not. I guess that's the funny thing about the "ride" you hate it at times with so much love and support that how could you not come back... SO ... here we go again.

For those that read my story last year and followed along on my ALC journey could vouch that I started off a complete beginner, finding myself at my first training ride in bike pants that were slightly big, a yoga top with no pockets, and a slightly nervous open mind. By the end of that ride, strangers became friends and the story began. I grew mentally and physically through the challenges each ride and route had to offer. Learning the basics of turning, stopping, shifting, fitting, and ofcourse styling! I couldn't have done it without the most important people - my fellow riders and training ride leaders.

This year I am back. I am back to support a cause that I believe so strongly about. To support  people everywhere across all borders, colors, races and religions that are at risk to be infected with HIV/AIDS. Which basically means everyone! I'm back to break the barriers of stigma that prevent people from realizing the severity and impact of this disease.  I'm back not only as a fellow rider but also as a training ride leader. Why? Because I want to pay it forward and help out some other newbie who shows up to the first training ride wearing underwear under her bike shorts, riding on an old craigslist bike and determined to do this ride (true story). With all these reasons how could I NOT come back!

I look forward to a new year and experience of ALC, an opportunity to grow, to serve, and to unite with an amazing community of people!

I hope you will ride with me this year, if not physically then with your support. Last year, ALC raised 13 million dollars to support two fabulous organizations. I hope we beat it this year. Remember every penny counts, and every message of love is just as meaningful.


Fact:
In 2009 About 2 million adults were newly infected with HIV/AIDS


Fact:
In 2009 women accounted for just over half of all adults living with HIV/AIDS worldwide.children


Fact:
People of color are infected at disproportionate rates


Fact:
One person CAN change the world!

So here I am taking on this challenge again, and hopefully alongg the way help another person go from novice rider to ALC rider and support a cause that impacts everyone, everywhere.  There are no coincidences, everything happens for a reason and I truly believe that is true for me and my involvement with HIV/AIDS awareness.

I have set a goal to raise $6,0000 dollars that will go towards the SF AIDS Foundation.  I am asking for your support to help me meet this goal. So take a moment, a deep breath, and if you feel compelled to please donate whatever you can. The suggested donation is $50.

To donate visit: www.tofighthiv.org/goto/ibike

Thank you with love and gratitude
Ritu Riyat