2012 will mark the 6th Annual “Rwanda Ride” in SoCal

What began as a 50th birthday ride in 2006, has evolved into one of the biggest and funnest mountain bike events in Southern California.

What makes this ride different?

First of all, our event is a “ride”, not a race. Riders participate for a lot of reasons: some for the challenge of riding further on a mountain bike than ever before, some because they love the Rwanda cause, some for the fun of sharing the day with all of their riding buddies. Second, our event is a fundraiser. We’ve raised over $220,000 for Project Rwanda and Team Rwanda in our first five events. These funds are used to further the economic development of Rwanda through initiatives based on the bicycle as a tool and symbol of hope. And we’re just getting started.

Will you join us?    SIGN UP TODAY

Our Rwanda Ride provides riders, sponsors, and their families an opportunity to make a real difference just by doing something they already love doing. Last year we had 631 participants – and we want to break that record this year.

ABOUT PROJECT RWANDA

Tom Ritchey, founder of Project Rwanda

Project Rwanda was founded by Tom Ritchey, a pioneer in the mountain bike industry. Tom first visited Rwanda in 2005. He was awed by the natural beauty of the country – “the land of 1000 hills”. Even more than that, Tom was inspired by the people and their stories of reconciliation and hope. Tom knew he could use his talent and resources to help make a difference – and Project Rwanda was born.

Project Rwanda’s mission:  to further the economic development of Rwanda through initiatives based on the bicycle as a tool and symbol of hope.

Project Rwanda’s Cargo Bike

Within its tiny borders Rwanda has nearly 500,000 small-holder coffee growers.  Project Rwanda has designed a special cargo bike that can efficiently transport heavy loads of coffee.  This cargo bike can increase a coffee farmer’s earning potential by 30-40 percent, giving them an opportunity to rise above poverty for the first time in their generation.  Learn more at projectrwanda.org

Team Rwanda Cycling

These Rwandan athletes are riding for their country, spreading a message of hope and inspiration for Rwanda. Word is spreading about this new “Team Rwanda”, the first ever national Rwandan cycling team. Adrien Niyonshuti, an original Team Rwanda member, has now qualified for the 2012 Olympics in London.  Adrien will represent Team Rwanda as the first-ever Rwandan cyclist to participate in an Olympic Games.  We’re proud to support Adrien and all of Team Rwanda through our event.  Learn more at teamrwandacycling.org

Project Rwanda is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, tax ID # 20-8332858.

Team Rwanda Cycling is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, tax ID # 27-3113955.