As most of you, the Wheelbrothers attend cycling events all around North Texas. However, most of the time, we just pay our $30, sign our form and collect the T-Shirt. Outside of the MS-150, most of us never really stop to think ‘WHAT’ the event is all about. We might catch a glimpse here or there – but – overall its guesswork at best.
In order to find out a bit more, we are interviewing folks about some of our favorite races this year. Starting with the one race that seems to ‘REALLY’ kick of the cycling season for us ‘Ride for Heroes’ (No offense to the ‘Freeze your Fanny’ folks, etc.) .
A couple of days ago, we caught up with Donna Smith, the President of the ‘Ride for Heroes’ event and were able to ask her some enlightening questions!
Ride for Heroes seems to be one of the first races for a lot of cyclists in North Texas. How long has the event been around and how did it start?
The ride started 9 years ago with the vision of a cyclist, a man with a cause, and a woman who could fleece money off anyone.
What was the motivation behind starting the tour and who benefits from it?
The avid cyclist had always wanted to have an organized ride in East Parker county, beautiful country with rolling (sometimes challenging) hills, not too much traffic and close to the metroplex. The man with cause is an insurance agent that wanted to raise money for the area volunteer fire departments. These two people met and knew to have a success ride sufficient funds would need to be raised, that is when the third person entered the picture to round out the talents involved. The money is divided between the volunteer fire departments of Aledo, Hudson Oaks and Willow Park, and the Parker County Sheriff reserves. A small portion goes to Center of Hope and to the Aledo ISD high school clubs that assist with the ride. Of course we also give to the Bicycle Coalition.
How have they been able to utilize the funds in the past?
They use the money mostly for equipment and some training. The one thing I know they have purchased is a portion of a police car for the Sheriff’s reserve. We are a designated 501c3 and have donated over $225,000 in 7 years.
Logistically, can you give us an idea how many volunteers, finances and planning it takes to put on this event?
It take approximately 350 volunteers, $15,000, and 8 months of planning
Seriously, how many port-a-potties do you have?
18, however remember we have the lovely stadium facilities at the beginning of the ride.
What brings you personally to this event?
As a real estate agent, East Parker County has been very good to me in my business. I found this as a great way to give back to the community that has done so much for me.
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
Money, Money and more money! I am still looking for in-kind donations for such things as printing, t-shirts and hamburger meat! The more money we make or in-kind donations we receive the more we can give.
What were you thinking OR drinking when deciding to ‘run’ the whole show?
I was asked to consider running the show by someone very dear to me, someone I just can’t say NO too. Of course the two gin martinis were influential as well.
Which was the most rewarding experience throughout the years hosting this event?
Actually the most rewarding experience was not during the event. It was at the annual parade of lights in Fort Worth. We had a float and a banner with volunteer Firemen in complete “bunker” gear walking along (we also had some people riding bikes) the parade route. As we came by people were cheering, giving “high fives” to the firemen, etc. At that moment it really struck me that these guys are the real deal. They risk their lives for us in what may be one of our darkest moments AND they volunteer to do it! Needless to say I was overwhelmed and became determined to raise as much money to help these departments as I could.
What was the strangest thing anyone has left behind at the race?
Probably their Pride. I have heard many a cyclist say, they had no idea such hills existed just outside of Fort Worth
How many riders do you medically assist during the average race?
2 or 3
Did you ever wanted to say to someone in your medical tent “Oh, just suck it up!!!”?
I would have to ask my safety director on that one, and he is out of the country!
Ever feel strange having that many guys wearing spandex around?
Are you kidding? I’m a single, middle-aged woman, bring it on!
Butt Butter – Gay or not Gay?
Essential
Anything you would like to let folks know about this years ride?
We will have bluebonnets in bloom for the first time, the scenery will be stunning.
Thought about – “Jeez, can they not ask MORE questions – yet?”
We can discuss that over a cold beer!
Did someone just mention ‘BEER’?????
On that note – ‘Thank you’ Donna for granting this quick interview and we hope we can catch up with everyone at the event.
Remember to say ‘Hi’ if you see one of the Wheelbrothers!