The Harbor to the Bay Committee announced this week plans to keep moving forward—albeit with caution and care in these times of COVID-19—with its annual Boston-to-Provincetown bicycling benefit for four local HIV/AIDS care, prevention and research organizations. The ride is schedule for September 26.
Says the committee in their April 23 press release:
So much has changed since our last Ride On that we aren’t quite sure where to start. First, the Harbor to the Bay Committee extends its wishes of safety and health to you and your loved ones during these uncertain times. As a charity dedicated to supporting local HIV/AIDS organizations, our community uniquely understands COVID-19 through the lens of another health crisis that directly impacted us – the AIDS epidemic. We are drawing from the strength and resilience formed by our community during those years as we once again rally together to provide support and hope during this pandemic, and we look forward to the day we come out on the other side.
As of today, we are still planning for a ride date of September 26th. Harbor to the Bay remains fully committed to supporting our four beneficiaries – Fenway Health, AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, Community Research Initiative, and AIDS Action – for whom Ride 18 fundraising will be critical as they continue to provide care during COVID-19. That said, the safety and well-being of our riders and crew members is of the utmost importance to us and any decisions regarding changes to Ride 18 will be communicated.
If you have not yet signed up for Ride 18, please visit the H2B website to join the nearly 100 already-registered participants!
Plus, they offer tips on Riding Safety During COVID-19 for those training for the event, as well as for all bicyclists:
As the weather warms and we continue to maintain appropriate social distancing, the H2B Committee encourages you to utilize the following practices from BikeMaine while cycling outdoors:
- Ride Solo. Ride alone or with people you live with. Stay at least 6 ft away if you encounter pedestrians or other cyclists while riding.
- Carry Everything. Make sure you have all of your necessities (food, water, & sanitary items) to lessen the impact on the areas you ride in. That includes a handkerchief for your nose!
- Wash Your Hands 3xs. Clean your hands before, during, and after the ride. Bring antibacterial hand cleanser with you.
- Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop. Avoid making unnecessary stops for resupply; now is not the time to go on that epic remote adventure.
- Recognize Impact. Small towns and remote areas are at a much higher risk during this time with delayed access to re-supply and medical support. It is vital to err on the side of caution.
- Stay Home If You’re Sick. If you’re feeling unwell, don’t go outside. Exercise doesn’t help your body fight the virus, and it puts others at risk.
Harbor to the Bay raises funds for Fenway Health, AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, Community Research Initiative and AIDS Action. Since the ride began in 2003, it has raised more than six million dollars for these life-saving organizations.
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