Guest columnist
As fellow cyclist Chris Thompson and I were pedaling on a September morning six years ago we hit upon the notion that there was not an organized ride in Durham for the Triangle region. We agreed on two specifics. One, the Durham bike ride would not be just a bike ride to benefit cyclists, but a bike ride to connect and strengthen the Durham community. Two, Habitat for Humanity of Durham, with its experienced staff and cadre of volunteers, was the perfect partner for such a ride.
Habitat for Humanity of Durham works tirelessly in neighborhoods throughout Durham, currently in Southwest Central Durham, to make homeownership possible for families in need. Habitat is in the business of transforming lives through affordable homeownership. It does not give away homes, yet instead works in partnership with local donors and volunteers to build along side a family in need of quality, affordable housing. Habitat for Humanity of Durham embodies the larger purpose of our Durham-owned bike ride.
Since its inception in 2004 the Halloween Bike Ride (which that year raised $1,500 with 225 cyclists) has grown into an event which in 2009 included over 850 cyclists raising over $50,000. Now cyclists trust that they will participate in a well-supported ride, including entertainment, rest stops, and medical and safety assistance on the carefully planned routes. All of which showcases the hospitality and community spirit of Durham and ultimately builds more Habitat homes in Durham. There is nothing wrong with this picture: people working to build their home, people getting exercise, people volunteering to enable both.
The strength and growth of the Bike Rides lend to the continual support of community partners such as the Durham County's Sheriff's Office and Sheriff Worth L. Hill, devoted to keeping the riders safe in the city and county of Durham by providing a team of officers led by Major R.D. Buchanan. Local business partners such as the Durham Bulls, Hendrick Durham Auto Mall, Carolina Brewery, and Harris Inc. continue to be passionately involved in the planning process in addition to supplying financial and logistical support the day of the ride. A community of committed volunteers that use their talents to handle route logistics, cyclist registration and photography generously give their time and energy to make the rides cyclist-friendly.
Durham's spirit is spreading. Now cyclists from as far as the New England states come to experience Durham and support Habitat. Over 30 sponsors support the ride. But we can continue to grow the Habitat cycling events.
I invite you, as a member of the Durham community, to join us. Ride with us. Cycle through Durham County. Transform lives. Transform your community. Support Habitat for Humanity of Durham. The camaraderie is infectious.
See you at Habitat of Durham's 2010 Bike Rides. Habitat of Durham's Bull Moon Ride, July 17, 2010, is a unique night ride meandering through the historical streets and landmarks in the city of Durham. And Habitat of Durham's Halloween Ride, October 30, 2010, offers 12-, 31-, 62- and 100-mile route options.
Peter Anlyan is a Triangle business consultant and cycling enthusiast.
