Pedaling for a Purpose

“What I know to be true is that the sport of cycling brings together a real cross-section of people- different backgrounds, ages, life experiences – but yet has a unifying ‘hold’ on all of us pedaling outside on two wheels.

Together there is an unsaid bond and from there, I’d like to say we have power in numbers, or power to the pedal. That’s the overarching mission of Ride Napa Valley- 1+1=3”

–Rebecca Kotch

Ride Napa Valley is an event production company dedicated to philanthropic causes. They take “do-gooder” to a new level with cycling events infused with a spirit of joy and giving, and yes, at times, a bit of aches and twinges to the roads that they ride. Each event focuses on a need in the community  or society and not only raises funds for the organizations but also educates guests on that subject as part of the event. From the starting gate to the finish line, the aim is education and empowerment.

Rock the Ride is the perfect example. Participants can choose between  a  10,  25 or 50-mile bike ride or three-mile walk that starts and finishes in Yountville, celebrated with burritos and bubbles at the finish. Rock the Ride supports three non-profit organizations: Giffords Law Center, Moms Demand Action/Everytown for Gun Safety Support, and Alaina’s Voice Foundation. The goal is three- fold: spread the message of kindness, engage the audience on how they can make a difference, and give to organizations that educate and create policies that reduce gun violence and promote gun safety.

Ride Napa Valley also works closely with the Rotary Club of Napa to produce Cycle for Sight & Rotary Ride for Veterans. Now in its 13th year, and with nearly 2000 cyclists, this  community event  supports  The  Enchanted  Hills  Camp  for the Blind and rotary designated veteran’s post- deployment programs. Napa9 is considered the most advanced cycling experience in Ride Napa Valley’s roster as it covers 125 miles of roads and nine peaks of climbing across Napa Valley. This boutique event raises funds for the Napa Police Youth Services Bureau to assist youth exhibiting at-risk behavior.

CampoVelo is considered Ride Napa Valley’s annual signature event, bringing participants from across the country for a weekend of world- class food, wine, beer, cycling, and wellness in support of No Kid Hungry and the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition. Along with guest chefs, pro- cyclists, and winemakers, in 2020, CampoVelo will celebrate all things electric: bikes, cars, and cooking.

The event name, inspired by the concept  of summer “camp”,  offers  guests  a  plethora of activities including the slow and food-filled Donut Ride, Gals-only rides – one slower with a basic skills review, and one that is a racer style, and the Espresso Train for those who prefer an uber-fast pace with former pro cyclists. Off-road activities include culinary demos, wine tastings and product demos. With title sponsor CLIF Bar & Co, team CLIF Bar Cycling, and Clif Family Winery, CampoVelo is a winning recipe for a wellness weekend like no other.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.campovelo.com

Article By: Layne Randolph // Photo By: Jonathan Herre