On Sunday, January 5th, over 70 cyclists gathered to celebrate the power of community and send off three local pros from Cynisca Cycling to Europe. Riders from Santa Barbara to San Diego came together for a Scavenger Hunt Send-Off, organized by the Ride! Foundation and supported by cycling enthusiasts, sponsors, and local businesses. The event wasn’t just a celebration; it was a testament to the strength and unity within the cycling community.
A Community Effort
Weeks of preparation went into curating the perfect send-off. Jennifer Johnson, Lisa Garr, and Kayla Davis of the Ride! Foundation worked closely with Robin Farina and Chris Gutowsky of Cynisca Cycling, alongside Anne Petronave, to finalize every detail. Their anticipation was quickly replaced by smiles, hugs, and the energy of a shared passion for cycling as friends, teammates, and supporters filled the Pedalers Fork parking lot.
Celebrating Local Talent
Tess Edwards, Chloe Patrick, and Kayla Davis, three women from the Los Angeles area, have taken their love of cycling to the global stage. Stories of their cycling journeys highlighted the role of community in their development as athletes. This send-off wasn’t just about their achievements but about the collective spirit that helped them reach this milestone.
The Power of the Bike
The event underscored the connection that cycling fosters. Amid unexpected reunions, shared stories, and smiles, the Scavenger Hunt Send-Off became a reminder of what makes this community so special: its ability to uplift and inspire. Attendees raised nearly $10,000 to support these professionals, proving that the cycling community's support extends beyond the roads.
Gratitude and Acknowledgements
This event wouldn’t have been possible without incredible sponsors and contributors. Specialized Bicycle Components demonstrated their commitment to the community by donating products, including a Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 for the auction, and sending Ben Edwards, their Global Marketing Manager, to join the event. Serious Cycling, Pearl Izumi and Pedalers Fork also played pivotal roles with generous donations and hospitality.
Finally, the Ride! Foundation and Cynisca Cycling extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated, or shared the event’s story. Your contributions are the heartbeat of a community that empowers dreams and builds lifelong connections.
Looking Ahead
As Tess, Chloe, and Kayla embark on their European journeys, they carry with them the love and support of a community that believes in the transformative power of the bike. The Ride! Foundation is committed to continuing this momentum with more community initiatives throughout the year.
Here’s to the miles ahead, the stories we’ll share, and the connections we’ll make. See you on the road!
Ride!
Kayla Davis