Finding your "thing" in fitness can take time, but once you find it, there’s no looking back. For me, that thing is cycling. I’m Joel, and I’m riding to support the Boston Cyclists Union because I believe everyone deserves to feel as safe and connected on our streets as I do on my bike.
My Journey: From "No Thanks" to 1,200 Miles
For a long time, I wasn’t a "fitness person." If it wasn't a competitive sport, I wasn't interested. That changed about a year and a half ago when I hopped on my Facebook marketplace 1996 Trek 1220. I quickly realized that cycling isn't just a workout, it’s freedom. It’s the joy of group rides with friends and the peace of bike-camping trips in Vermont with my girlfriend. On our journey to Montreal, we’ll be riding the same bike path across Lake Champlain I rode with my girlfriend.
In 2025, I pushed myself to ride 850 miles. This year, I’ve set my sights even higher: 1,200 miles for 2026. I’ve even upgraded from my trusty vintage Trek to a new carbon Felt Breed gravel bike to help me get there!
Why I’m Fundraising
When I’m not on the road, you can often find me at the Bike to the Sea bike kitchen in Malden. Volunteering on the Northern Strand Community Trail has shown me firsthand how vital it is for people to have access to working bikes and safe paths. Being able to learn new skills and potentially help members of my community in English or Spanish has truly meant a lot to me.
I’m riding for the Boston Cyclists Union (BCU) because they are the force making Greater Boston’s streets more equitable and inviting. From fighting for protected bike lanes to organizing free repair clinics, the BCU works tirelessly to ensure that our infrastructure serves "every body." They turn our streets into people-centered spaces that connect our communities.
The Ride
Day 1 - 67 Miles Boston MA to Templeton MA
Day 2 - 64 Miles Templeton MA to Townshend MA
Day 3 - 81 Miles Townshend MA to Salisbury VT
Day 4 - 56 Miles Salisbury VT to Burlington VT
Day 5 - 102 Miles Burlington VT to Montreal CAN
How You Can Help
My goal is to raise $2000 to support the BCU’s advocacy and street campaigns. Your donation helps:
- Advocate for safer infrastructure to reduce injuries and fatalities.
- Expand the bike network so more people can commute and ride for fun.
- Support community resources like the ones I love at the bike kitchen.
- The large number of volunteers that aid this semi-supported bike ride.
Whether you can give $10 or $100, every bit helps me reach my goal and helps the BCU make Boston a world-class cycling city. The Boston Cyclists Union is a 501c3 non-profit, so your donation is tax deductible. Your employer may also have a match, if you have any questions about this please feel free to reach out where I can happily assit you through that process!
Thank you for supporting my ride and our community!
