Some Things Can’t Be Bought

When deciding to put on a charity ride 2 years ago it was clear from the beginning that we wanted something to make the event unique. After all, charity rides and tours are a dime a dozen. If something was to be successful and grow it needs to stand out.

While maintaining a unique aspect we also wanted the event to be all inclusive, something for everybody. A ride that moms and dads could bring their kids to in an effort to support a cause, the same cause being supported by seasoned riders and racers riding much further distances.

As cyclists, we all know that no matter the ride, the pace, the distance, or the terrain, we often all can share in one unifying experience, suffering. From that desire for everyone to participate and this shared experience in cycling came the name Banded Suffering. A group of cyclists from all levels, ages, backgrounds, and experiences banding together for a single reason.

The next step in designing the event was to provide recognition of what riders accomplished for the cause. Some events recognize individuals based on their their monetary contribution or donations raised. While this is a great way to raise money, it isn’t necessarily representative of any sort of personal effort or suffering, which is what we felt people should be recognized for.

With that thought in mind we have a couple different ways we are recognizing individuals efforts this year. First of these is the t-shirt. High quality District tees printed by Creative Awards. They will come in 4 colors: white, navy, brown, and black. White is for family riders and donations of $15, navy is for all road rides 100 miles and less, brown is for the gravel riders doing the shorter route, black is for the double metric and full gravel routes. The logo shows that you chose to band together with others to help the cause, but the color of the shirt tells about more of your own personal effort.

Next, and new for this year, is the headset cap. There will be two headset caps available, one that is for sale, and the other which can only be earned. At the top of Crawl Hill we will be handing out these custom headset caps to everyone that chooses to suffer up it. The second will be available for sale at the start/finish for $10.

So next Saturday, Oct 17^th, we hope to you will come join many other cyclists from the area to help support JDRF. And remember, as you toe the line to start the day, no matter what distance or pace you are riding, we all suffer the same.

Thanks!
Brad Schrag
Event Promoter