Bikes = Unity
August 28, 2019 § 6 Comments
One of the best things about bikes is that you can use them to be alone, to get solitude, to take a break from society and the world.
One of the other best things about bikes is that they bring people together.
I met Nancy Linn in 2008 or 2009, I think, when the PV Bike Chicks were first getting started. She was an early subscriber to this blog, accepting its wayward, outlandish opinions along with its legitimate ones, and supporting a voice that was needed, whether or not she agreed with it 100% of the time, or even 10%.
Last year Nancy helped out with the All Clubs BBQ/South Bay Cycling Awards by stepping in as a sponsor through her foundation, Race for RP. I wrote about her, and about relapsing polychondritis, here.
This year, Race for RP sponsored the event again, and in addition to cash on the barrel head, we got a couple of hours into the event and Nancy came up to me and said, “I think a TV crew ought to see this.”
“See what?” I asked, looking around for a dead body.
“This,” she insisted, spreading her hand at the park filled with people talking about bikes.
“Us?” I shook my head. “The only news here is that there isn’t any news.”
“I’m calling the TV station,” she said.
I didn’t have a lot of time to think about it because I was involved in some really important work standing around arguing with someone about something, so off Nancy went.
A bit later, as the awards ceremony was in full swing, someone rushed up breathlessly. “Can you go talk to the TV crew?”
“What TV crew?” I asked.
“There. ABC is here to film the event.”
“What event?”
“OUR EVENT.”
“Oh. Yeah, sure.” I went over to the news truck, where Channel 7 was doing interviews, getting footage, and coming up with a great story about how cyclists have put together an event that showcases diversity, unity, camaraderie, and barbecue. A couple of hours later it was on the six o’clock news.
Afterwards I tried to find Nancy to thank her, but it was late and she had already left, after propping up the event with a generous donation and getting us TV coverage throughout LA County, if not the galaxy.
I later reached out to her about the event. She had a few words I thought I’d share, because they say more than anything I could ever write.
A week ago today, I experienced the greatest feeling of togetherness that I have ever felt in my life.
Kinda says it all.
END
Cycling in the South Bay 
Absolutely news worthy – and next year we will have the News come again! Thank you Nancy!
In contrast of all the thoughts of resentment, hatred and violence resonating in our country today, the All Clubs BBQ and Southbay cycling awards gleamed, like a the pot at the end of the rainbow. It gave many people including myself opportunities to not only make friends, but get involved with activities that give back to our communities. Diversity – Comnmunity – Unity.
Aaron Chang
This just makes me smile! Well done!
#AbsolutelyFeckingSuperb
Sounds like I’m making people happy. Better return to cave.
Beautifully written!!!
Nancy was correct. what a truly amazing and beautiful display of togetherness! Real community will gladly offer lending hands when needed, to prevent it’s people from falling. When we all stay upright we all grow together and keep moving forward!
That is what I experienced at the all clubs barbecue. Huge hearted people from all walks of life, supporting and empowering each other, bonded by bravery, love, cycling and amazing food!!
Thank you Seth, thank you Kenneth, thank you Nancy!
I’ll be back next year!
Jason Dolby
Can’t wait!! And thanks for the warm words!