This year was my first time ever participating in Pelotonia. What is Pelotonia? Pelotonia started as a Grassroots Bike Tour in 2008, and grew into something so much bigger. The 3-day Pelotonia Ride accelerates funding for cancer research and drives communitues toward healthier living. Every year, Huntington National Bank encourages employees to become riders, and the opportunity felt too good to pass up. I have never been apart of a bike event, so I knew I would have challenges of my own. I had only practiced a few times, so I basically had to wing it. Oh well, right? But once I got in Columbus and began the Pelotonia experience, my anxieties were calmed. To begin, Pelotonia was so organized it was unreal. I thought that it would feel chaotic because the event was hosting over 7,000 riders, but I was more than wrong. Any question or concern I had was eagerly and professionally helped by a volunteer. The whole event was smooth, and I felt more than welcomed. So welcomed that I can easily picture myself participating for years to come. I decided to do the 25 mile for my first time. The sun was beating down and the hills challenged me both mentally and physically, but I did it! And it flew by! I was assisted by the volunteers handing out water, gatorade and bananas on the side of the road. I had a whole Pelotonia family around me, holding me accountable the entire way. Better yet, all donations made by riders, businesses, and sponsors go to cancer research. During the ride, I had tears in my eyes witnessing all the motivated individuals that came together for a great cause.
If you are interested in joining the team, I encourage you to check it out! Do your research, snag a bike, and save the date!
xx
Devan 
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