The Outride Rally Concludes Inspiring California Journey, Connecting Communities and Championing the Power of Bikes
The Outride Rally was a whirlwind 12-day initiative focused on raising awareness for Outride's mission to empower all people through cycling. The rally, tracing the California coast from Monterey to Windsor, covered hundreds of miles, engaged numerous communities, and included school visits, leaving a lasting impression centered on human connection and the positive benefits of cycling on brain health and wellbeing.
Over the course of the ride, the Outride team visited three middle school Riding for Focus programs which are directly impacting over 300 students this semester alone, with bike rides alongside ultra-cyclist Jack Thompson, fun relays with Outride Champion and Middle School teacher John Glodek, bike crafts, a friendly bike sprint challenge, and a conversation around how bikes light up the brain. The goal was clear: to showcase the positive impact of cycling and bring Outride’s mission to life.
The rally’s extensive itinerary also included activations at the Sea Otter Classic, public send-off rides along the route, fundraising pushes, community engagement events hosted by Specialized Experience Center/Patagonia in Santa Cruz and Ornot and Roaring Mouse in San Francisco, and presence at the Levi's GranFondo Expo before tackling the Gran Fondo ride itself. Over 400 miles were pedaled, including picturesque rides along the California coastline and across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. There were hundreds of community members who joined, hopping on their bikes with the team or connecting at events.
Participants emphasized that the true highlight transcended the cycling itself. "The real highlight? The people," said Jack Thompson, the accomplished ultra cyclist who led the rally alongside the veteran middle school teacher, John Glodek. "The kids who lit up when they got on a bike. The conversations, the stories, the communities that welcomed us in. That’s the part that stays with you, even after the riding ends."
The success of the rally was attributed to a strong collaborative spirit. The Outride team navigated long days and logistical challenges with mutual support. The journey fostered an environment of trust where team members and community participants alike felt comfortable sharing personal stories, leading to moments of both laughter and tears, ultimately unfolding into something bigger.
Reflecting on the rally, the team recognized the bicycle's profound power as a tool for connection and wellbeing. While personal athletic achievements were valued, the experience underscored the deeper significance of engaging with communities and inspiring young people. This impact was only possible thanks to the crucial support of our partners, including Specialized and the three middle schools we visited, as well as every individual who connected with us at events or cheered us on virtually.
The Outride Rally successfully amplified the organization's mission, demonstrating the profound effect cycling can have on individual and community well-being, leaving organizers and participants feeling deeply grateful for the connections made and the positive impact generated.
A heartfelt thank you to every single person who volunteered at our booths, met or hosted us at an event, joined us for a ride, followed along on social media, and proudly represented Outride throughout the rally. Your involvement was absolutely crucial. This wasn’t just a ride - this was a rally to share Outride’s mission and how the bicycle can be a powerful tool to light up our brains, build connections, and boost our wellbeing.
Looking for ways to support Outride?
Donate - your generous support will directly help us to empower all people to experience the social, emotional, and cognitive benefits of cycling.
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About Outride: Founded in 2014, Outride works to empower all people to experience the social, emotional, and cognitive benefits of cycling. Through its grant programs, Outride has distributed over $10million in funding, bikes, equipment, and programs to schools and nonprofits, increasing access to cycling for more than 50,000 youth annually. In collaboration with universities and other institutions, Outride supports research to better understand the impact cycling can have on our wellbeing.
