Make "some day" today!

Continuing the outstanding tradition of long distance bicycling events begun by the American Lung Association® in the mid-1980's the American Lung Association® of Washington is proud to announce Big Ride Pacific Coast 2008.

In September of 2008, a group of cyclists will depart Seattle, Washington, bound for San Francisco, CA. In the course of their journey, they will raise funds and awareness for the American Lung Association® of Washington and its critical research, education and advocacy programs. For the lucky riders who will pedal 960 miles in 2 weeks, it is the sort of experience that will change them forever. Seeing the Pacific Coast at bicycle pace is an experience unlike any other. It broadens your perspective and gives you the opportunity to get to know a great group of new friends. Doing it to raise funds for vital life-saving programs makes it even more special.

We plan on taking approximately 40 riders. This close-knit group will share the experience of riding each day while helping out with a few of the camp duties to help keep costs down and increase the fund raising return for the ALAW. A single truck will carry the riders camping gear, clothing and cooking gear. The riders will share the breakfast cooking duties in small teams of 5-6, meaning that each team will cook no more than a few times. (It's actually lots of fun!) We provide breakfast and dinner each riding day. We will be camping each night in state parks along the coast. Hot showers will be available each day. Sag vans will provide water and sports drink as required and will transport riders if they are unable to ride that day. Riders are expected to do their own minor bike maintenance which includes: changing flat tires, adjusting gears and brakes, and general cleaning. Tools and a maintenance stand will be available for emergency bike maintenance from the staff to repair wheels, cables, etc.

Riders are expected to ride each day and will need to train sufficiently to ride an average of 77 miles a day for 2 weeks. A detailed route guide and directions will be provided each day. They will also receive water stop service on the route and will need to stop for other sources of food in towns and along the road. Every effort will be made to provide water and snacks in remote areas that do not have many services. Riders will need to carry two water bottles and/or a hydration system (camelback) as well as energy snacks to see them through each day on the road.

A recommended packing list will be available for camping gear, bicycle gear and clothing for the trip. We will also provide access to Big Ride mentors to provide council and support as they prepare for their big adventure. This support includes all facets of the event including training, fundraising, bike preparation, etc.

We will depart from Seattle, WA on September 13th and arrive in San Francisco, CA on September 27nd. Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge on a bicycle is a magic moment. Family and friends are encouraged to attend the start and finish ceremonies if they can - they are experiences to be remembered for a lifetime.

We will do our best to let you know what you can expect from the Big Ride, but part of what keeps it interesting is the unexpected things that pop up along the way. Stay flexible, and keep an open mind and the one thing we can guarantee is that if you choose to ride, you're in for the experience of a lifetime!

Please give us a call. We are eager to talk with you about the ride and to answer any questions you may have.

Make someday today!