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“That rumbling sound you hear when a group of bikes comes together is not noise sir, it is the harmony of brotherhood coming together for a purpose and cause.” – Crysta Baker
Volunteering with my local HOG chapter, Redwood Empire Chapter #3494, is something I have enjoyed for decades. Combining my love of riding, helping others, and enjoying our beautiful area is the perfect way for me to spend a day. For the last few years, I have volunteered and recruited SAG (Support and Gear) MOTO (Motorcycle) riders to volunteer their time with me in assisting Tour d’Organics and their event participants during a 16-100-mile bike ride through Sonoma County.
This event doesn’t disappoint. For volunteers and participants alike, riding through the gorgeous countryside, traveling through vineyards, and farms exploring the local produce along the way is an amazing way to spend a day.
Originally envisioned and created by the Sebastopol Community Cultural Center (SCCC), Tour d’ Organics is a West County cycling event unlike any other. The ride is not only an educational experience that combines your athletic pursuits with a wealth of knowledge about our local area, growing practices and practical tips that focus on the health of our bodies and planet, but the food offered is all organic, fresh, and locally sourced.
Our role as volunteers during a race can change depending on the situation. Sometimes we will assist a rider with mechanical issues, motivate a fatigued rider or give directions to a rider who has fallen behind the group. I have assisted the bicycle riders with spare inner tubes, maps, directions and formation policies along the route and report any bikes out of commission ready for pickup.
I am grateful to have been able to participate in this event over the past several years. It combines what I enjoy most with great people that value our area, resources, and the planet. It feels good to give back.
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