Day One: May 27^th, 2012. Today was the first day of the 4k For Cancer, cross country ride. We started the ride after a great ceremony at the Baltimore Harbor. All of the riders dipped their wheels in the bay, said farewell to their loved ones and rode north to Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. The first day was definitely an experience. We had the pleasure of being joined by 2010 and 2011 alumni. I really glad they were a part of our first day of the trip. I learned a lot about helping keeping people motivated on the bike. Chris Lubas was the alumni for our group. We talked a lot of about bikes, the ride, how to handle situations and much more. I can’t say it enough how much I appreciate all of the alumni for their help, and I can’t wait to do the same next year.

Our ride was off to a great start through the city of Baltimore. It was nice because there was little traffic, and lots of cyclist. I got to tell other riders just passing by about the ride and what we were doing it for. The ride was about 70 miles, with stops for water and food about every 20 miles. I thought I was going to dread stopping every 20 miles, but so far I have enjoyed it. We get time to talk and enjoy each other’s company. During the trip I made contact with the ground twice, but brushed it off and kept going.

We rode through some pretty familiar areas, as I usually ride through northern Baltimore County. There were some good hills, in which I was learning how to motivate my team to keep pedaling. We won’t give up unless its unsafe. We don’t stop just because it is hard, we keep pushing through it!

I made it to our host in Waynesboro right before a huge thunderstorm hit. It was quite crazy. We had some great food, showered and hung out. After that, Myself, Z, Jasper and Yoshi began to work on some bikes. All day long I was teaching people how to use their bike, problem solve, and just about anything else cycling related. I really do enjoy teaching all my new 4k friend about cycling! We keep joking about how much money they are going to owe me in the end, but really I’m just having a good time, riding my bike with a great group of people, inspiring those who are or have been affected by cancer. Soon we will be able to meet some of those people.

That concludes the first days posting, more to come soon!!

A big shout out to the host in Waynesboro!