3rd Annual Santa Barbara Ride 4 Rwanda
8 mile All-Ages Bike Ride – More than just another Saturday ride...
January 24, 2009
Goleta Beach County Park, 5986 Sandspit Rd., Goleta, CA 93117
The route will take riders inland from Goleta Beach along the beautiful Santa Barbara Bike Path. After approximately 4 miles, we will hang a right up Puente and hit the dirt at More Mesa. After cruising along the bluffs and taking in a view of the Channel Islands, we will head down to Patterson to reconnect with the bike path and make our way back to Goleta Beach. The Ride 4 Rwanda will take place on bike paths as well as dirt trails...so knobby tires are recommended.
Imagine a world where two wheels are more common than four...where the bicycle has become much more than an expensive toy. This is Rwanda. In a country recovering from the worst genocide in recent memory, the bicycle has become a crucial tool for survival.
Enter Project Rwanda. Founded by mountain bike pioneer Tom Ritchey, the Project aims to use the bicycle as a means to help revitalize the economy of a country torn apart by internal conflict. For millions of Rwandans, the bike is more than just an expensive toy. For Rwanda’s independent coffee farmers, it is often the only means available to transport their beans from farm to washing station. Because the coffee industry makes up such a large portion of Rwanda’s GDP, the work of these farmers has been crucial to the country’s post-genocide recovery. Project Rwanda has worked to create a bicycle that is uniquely suited for Rwanda’s coffee farmers and affordable at the same time.
The Project has thus far distributed 1,500 “coffee bikes”to farmers through a micro-finance system. These bikes allow the farmers to carry more beans and make the trip to the washing stations faster, resulting in increased profits. Because the beans are then processed sooner after being harvested, they can be sold for a higher price. The coffee bike has allowed farmers to sell their crops at an average of $0.15 more per pound, a very tangible profit.
So where do you come in? On Saturday, January 24th, Tom and cycling enthusiasts of all ages will be hopping into the saddle at the 3rd Annual Ride 4 Rwanda to raise awareness and funds to help get bikes and tools to those who need them the most. You are invited. Last year, the 2nd Annual Ride 4 Rwanda attracted over 100 riders in the pouring rain, and raised $5,000 for Project Rwanda. This year we are hoping to attract over 200 riders, rain or shine. Bring you family. Bring your friends. Make this more than just another Saturday ride.
