Media During The Bike Rally

Media opportunities have been ramping up significantly over the past few weeks. As Bike Rally participants, we are all unofficial spokespersons for the Bike Rally in all of our conversations. At all times, we must represent ourselves and the Bike Rally professionally. Sherri Byer and Tim Ledger (Steering Committee Co-Chairs), Dimitrios Alexis and Carmelo Millimaci (Media & Communications Committee, Co-Leads), Murray Jose (PWA Executive Director) and Robert Tomas (PWA, Director, Development & Communications) are the official spokespeople for the Bike Rally. Only the official spokespersons, or their designate, may speak on behalf of Toronto People With AIDS Foundation or the Friends For Life Bike Rally.

Some of you may be approached by the Media & Communications Committee and asked if you would like to participate in an interview at various stages along the route. If you are approached by media please feel free to speak about your personal experiences and reasons for doing the ride. If you make contact with a member of the media, please notify PWA Staff or one of the Co-Chairs or the Media & Communications Committee ASAP.

Rider Licence Plates

Any unclaimed or replacement Licence Plates will be available for pick-up on Packing Day. Remember to pick yours up, as you MUST have it affixed to your bike during the Rally.

Final Preparations

Have you had a chance to preview the packing list yet? Have you read the Event Handbook? If not, now's the time to make sure you are prepared for packing day and departure this weekend.

Message From The Board Of PWA

On behalf of the PWA's Board of Director's I want to say thank you and highlight that the energy that you have put into this event benefits the many men, women, and children living with HIV/AIDS and the agency could not execute on the mandate without volunteers like you.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

The people whose lives you're changing may be nameless and faceless to you, and you may be nameless and faceless to them, but know this - every time a PHA accesses a service, receives a helping hand, a kind word, or a smile from someone at PWA, it's because of you. You make this possible in every way, and though you may not know it, you are saving people's lives, giving them hope and making their struggle a little easier.

1. A safe ride, with the same number of riders and crew departing as arrive in Montreal 
2. A healthy ride, with good food and strong legs 
3. Good weather, with sun when you want it, shade when you need it, and the wind at your back 
4. And many, many, many... Friends For Life 

I look forward to seeing you off on Sunday and wanted to pause and recognize a fantastic team.

With love and many thanks.

Cory

Cory Garlough Board Chair, Toronto People with AIDS Foundation

Packing Day and Departure Day

Reminder that Packing Day is Saturday, July 28, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Msgr. Fraser College - Isabella Campus at 146 Isabella St., Toronto. Please review the Event Handbook for details. Departure day is Sunday, July 29, 2012 with participant sign-in at 7:30 a.m. at Queen's Park at University and Wellesley. Please be sure to arrive early and give yourself enough time to sign in and participate in the group photo at 8:00 a.m.

Heat-Related Issues

With temperatures soaring it's important to be aware of heat-related illnesses. You should have two water bottles with you at all times including an electrolyte drink. During the ride there will be breaks approximately every 25 km's, but if you find yourself on the road and without access to water you should flag down road safety - they will have water with them.

Please read the online article regarding heat-related illnesses to understand the signs and what to do in case you are not feeling well during the ride. Also read the Beat the Heat article for further information.

Call for Volunteers - Help Unload Trucks upon Return to Toronto from Montreal

We need volunteers to help us unload all of the vehicles upon their return to Toronto from Montreal on Sunday, August 5 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Msgr. Fraser College - Isabella Campus, 146 Isabella Street, Toronto.

Please contact Mila Thirasack, Special Events Coordinator at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to sign up!

The Rustler Roundup

Find out about Packing Day, arrival at campsites, what to expect in Kingston and arrival in Montreal, meet the Rustlers, participate in their team building activities, and more!

Follow us at: http://rustlerroundup.wordpress.com/

And as a bonus, if you have any questions or concerns about the transport of your gear, ask Betty BinBottom! She's been doing the Bike Rally for years and knows it all. She'll give you the answer you didn't know you were looking for!

About Us

On July 29, 2012, more than 400 courageous individuals will embark on an incredible journey. For six days, our riders will cycle 600 km's from Toronto to Montreal with the support of a fabulous crew. Participants will raise more than $1 million for Toronto People With AIDS Foundation, which exists to promote the health and well-being of all people living with HIV/AIDS by providing accessible, direct and practical support services. The experience promises to have a profound impact on the lives of every participant.
 
Friends For Life Bike Rally
Toronto People With AIDS Foundation
200 Gerrard St. E, 2nd floor
Toronto, Ontario M5A 2E6
416-506-1400 ext. 238
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  

Riders: 283
Crew: 113
Funds Raised: $1,090,364

(As of July 26, 2012)