Spin for Kids 2011

This past Sunday, October 23, the LITESPEED-BMW Cycling Team participated in the 6th annual Spin for Kids.  This is an annual fundraiser, benefitting Camp Twin Lakes, that our team proudly participates in every year.  It’s an exceptional organization in that the main goal is to provide children with certain illnesses or disabilities the right and ability to enjoy some of the classic childhood activities that we all take for granted. Without organizations like this, thousands of children would never have to the opportunity to simply cast a fishing line from a canoe, or go for a hike in the woods, or ride a bike without inhibition. It’s an amazing organization that has entirely humbled our entire team as it has opened our eyes to some of the amazing realities that some are forced to live with.
 
Camp Twin Lakes is a special place for special kids. Working in partnership with over 40 different organizations, Camp Twin Lakes provides life-changing experiences to children with serious illnesses and life challenges at various locations throughout the state of Georgia.  This year 950 participants raised over $340,000 (and counting), and the LITESPEED-BMW team raised nearly $10,000, eclipsing the $25,000 mark over the last three years!!!  This was in part due to a very generous donation on the part of BMW…(2) Two-Day M School certificates for the BMW Performance Driving School!  Having participated in the One-Day M School ourselves, we are certain that the winner of the auction, a lucky man from PA, will have gotten his money’s worth…on top of contributing to an amazing charitiy.
 
Fourteen members of our team arrived to chilly Camp Twin Lakes in Rutledge, GA for the 100 mile ride.  We were greeted by the cheery volunteers and one of our great sponsors, and the man who founded Spin for Kids, Dave Shoulberg of United Distributors.  We set out at the head of a group of around 50 cyclists and wound our way through the scenic countryside of Walton, Morgan, and Newton counties.  Rest stops in historic towns like Rutledge and Madison, Georgia provided us with ample fuel for our long day in the saddle.  By mile 60, temps had reached close to 70 degrees, so the day was pretty much perfect at that point.  After 5.5 hours in the saddle, we pulled into Camp Twin Lakes to the cheers of the volunteers, campers, and the several hundred riders who had already completed the shorter distances on offer that day.  Once again, the ride was finished by food and drink provided by generous Spin for Kids sponsors Taco Mac and Sweetwater Brewing Company. 
 
2011 was the best year yet and all of us can’t wait for Spin for Kids 2012!