Le Loop - supporting the William Wates Memorial Trust
Hey friends, one of the best things I've ever done in my entire life was start using my passion for cycling to fundraise for causes I believe in. Since 2016, you've supported me on AIDS life cycle and AIDS vaccine 200, helping me raise $25000 for the years I was a participant. I am so grateful to you for your donations and allowing me to be part of both of these rides in 2025, the final year for both of them. It's been a challenge for me losing these amazing communities of people that were involved and passionate about these rides, especially now when we need it the most.
Back in July, just a few weeks after riding my final AIDS lifecycle, I did something really bonkers. I flew out to the UK and cycled the LEJOG, a very famous cycling route that goes the entire length of the UK from southwest to Northeast. 1003 miles in 10 days with 2 mount Everests worth of climbing and I did it on a cheap rental bike. In all my years of riding, the most 100 mile consecutive days I've done was two, and this was 10. I didn't know if I could do it, but someone I loved who I recently lost always believed I was able to do things beyond what I thought I could do.
It was incredibly challenging but amazing. I was the only American on the tour with two dozen others but finished every mile and then some. Along the way, I noticed our ride leader Russ had a tattoo on his calf for Le Loop. Never having heard of this, I asked him what is is.
"About 50 people per year attempt to ride the entire tour de France route 7 days before the pros to raise money to help kids from challenged backgrounds find a way out through arts and sports and educational programs".
At first, this seemed way too daunting. 1000 miles in 10 days was extreme, but this is the ENTIRE tour de France. 2300+ miles in 21 days. I am not anywhere near a pro cyclist and carry a big spare tire, but having ridden parts of the tour during previous trips, I couldn't get it out of head the entire route.
Knowing they only pick about 50 people per year globally, I knew my odds were pretty slim to get a spot, but I thought I would try anyway.
Well my friends, I'm in... One of two Americans, to attempt the entire tour for charity.
Le Loop follows the official route of the Tour de France, one week ahead of the professionals and finishes 21 stages later in Paris
I'll be tackling all 21 stages of the Tour de France route. All participants commit to raising a minimum amount for the William Wates Memorial Trust (WWMT). The fundraised money is entirely separate from the participation fee - donations do not pay for my Tour.
All monies raised go directly to the William Wates Memorial Trust whose mission is to help the most disadvantaged young people keep away from a life of crime and violence and fulfil their potential. This is achieved by giving grants to charities that engage young people through the medium of sports, arts and education.
It's been a tough couple of years for charities and particularly for young people. This is my chance to give something back and help support young people who aren't lucky enough to enjoy the advantages in life that most of us take for granted.
Le Loop is no small undertaking. Riding even ONE stage of the Tour de France route is incredibly challenging and I'm going to try to ride all of them! Please reward my pain by giving generously😅
Merci!
Dan
