TL;DR
- Los Angeles LGBT Center launches Center Ride Out cycling event.
- Event spans three days, from LA to San Diego.
- Participants can choose rides from 20 to 100 miles.
- 10% of proceeds go to local LGBTQ+ centers.
- Drag performances and festivities at base camp each night.
Hold onto your handlebars, L.A.! The City of Angels is gearing up for a fabulous new cycling adventure that’s all about community, pride, and a dash of glitter. The Los Angeles LGBT Center has officially launched the Center Ride Out, a three-day cycling event that promises to be as inspiring as it is fun. This event is a fresh take on the beloved AIDS/LifeCycle, which has been a staple in the LGBTQ+ community for over three decades.
“For decades, our community has come together to ride for something greater than ourselves,” says Joe Hollendoner, the CEO of the Los Angeles LGBT Center. And honey, they’re not slowing down now! The Center Ride Out will take place from April 24-26, winding its way from the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the sunny shores of San Diego, with a scenic detour through Riverside County.
But wait, there’s more! Not only can you join the ride in person, but there’s also a virtual option for those who prefer to support from the comfort of their own home. Registered “Spinfluencers” can cheer on their fellow riders and raise funds without ever leaving their couch. Talk about a win-win!
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the ride. Days one and three will feature long endurance rides that stretch between 80 and 100 miles. Feeling a bit less ambitious? Day two offers a “choose your own adventure” option, allowing participants to ride anywhere from 20 to 100 miles or take a well-deserved rest at base camp. Each day promises a unique experience, from urban cycling to breathtaking scenic climbs.
And what’s a ride without a little entertainment? Each night at base camp, riders can unwind with drag performances, shared meals, and a whole lot of festivities. It’s not just about the miles; it’s about celebrating our vibrant community and the progress we’ve made together.
In a heartwarming twist, 10% of the proceeds from the Center Ride Out will be donated to the San Diego LGBT Community Center and the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. It’s all about supporting our own while having a blast!
“We’re uniting cyclists, volunteers, and supporters across Southern California to celebrate who we are and why we ride: for community, for pride, and for the future of LGBTQ+ equity,” says Melissa Lewis, the director of Center Ride Out. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned pro, there’s a place for everyone on this ride. Every pedal stroke helps push our mission forward.
So, are you ready to roll? For more information and to sign up, visit centerrideout.lalgbtcenter.org. Let’s ride for a cause and show the world that LGBTQ+ equity is worth every mile!