We started this Challenge for New Years… but think it applies all year long.
Have you ever set a resolution that you actually kept for more than a few weeks? If the answer is no, you’re not alone. At all.
Most people don’t stick to their resolutions. So this year, let’s change it up! Let’s set an Intention.
A resolution is a specific goal that is firm and fixed. So when you don’t achieve the resolution, you might feel like a “failure.” That’s a pretty harsh reaction, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy, guilt and shame, and start the year off on a pretty lousy foot.
On the other hand, an intention is setting your attention towards a goal. It’s an attitude… a way of being that focuses your energy and powers toward achieving that goal. It’s more fluid and allows for refinement and adjustments (and self compassion) along the way.
The distinction is more than semantics. An intention is forgiving, without the built-in succeed-or-fail dynamic that comes with resolutions. Intentions honor effort and process; not just results.
Everyone wins here. We look in the mirror and applaud the effort and small successes along the way. And we earn an awesome, LOUD, super high viz jersey that just might save your life one day.
As we all know, in every motor vehicle vs bicycle collision, the bicyclist is always the loser. What can YOU do to minimize the risk?
BE VISIBLE.
BE BRIGHT.
BE SEEN.
Be a reminder to motorists that we cyclists are human beings with the same rights (and responsibilities) to use the road and arrive safely to our destinations.
The “Share the Road” message is more important than ever these days. It sure feels like more drivers are speeding, running stop signs and signals, texting, driving intoxicated. This hit home for us in October when Planet Ultra’s own Deborah Bowling was rear-ended by a distracted and uninsured driver. Sitting on the couch recovering, it came to mind that fines/punishment of inattentive/distracted/uninsured drivers must be way greater so as to be a deterrent …
Planet Ultra is committed to increasing cycling safety through partnerships, education, legislation and infrastructure. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to various cycling advocacy programs (particularly in areas where we host events), and to our favorite charities which also champion this cause.
WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH ENTRY?
1. Everyone who sets on intention to ride, and does in fact get on their bicycles and ride in April “earns” the Share The Road jersey by Blackbottoms Cyclewear. Our design includes all the high viz, fluorescent colors that drivers are more likely to SEE so that you make it home safely!
Jerseys are ordered after the Challenge and mailed as soon as we have them (7-8 weeks).
Please choose your size wisely.* Jerseys are special ordered.
*If you’ like help with sizing, send us an email with your height and weight. Jerseys are “club cut,” which is a more relaxed fit.
2. Digital rider bib to post to your social media or download and print to put in a prominent space as encouragement and motivation.
3. Planet Ultra, and your fellow cyclists on Strava will provide lots of support, motivation, kudos and accolades for your cycling efforts; cheering you on the entire way!
HOW DOES IT WORK?
1. “Register” for the Challenge using the link below. When you sign up online, you automatically create a RunSignUp profile which enables you to upload and manage your mileage efforts. Please do not set your profile to “anonymous,” or we’ll be unable to see your results.
2. Submit your daily activities to our Share The Road Results on RunSignUp and post your rides to Strava. You’ll receive an email with specific instructions on how to post to RunSignUp; and/or you can read the instructions here.
3. Request to join the Share The Road Strava Club so we can encourage each other, give kudos and be inspired! If you’re not yet on Strava, please join! It’s FREE!
4. Between April 1st and 30th, set the intention to ride your bike more; and then GO DO IT. Indoors or outdoors or any combination of both. All miles count.
5. Be the BEST POSSIBLE ambassador of cycling. Obey traffic laws. Smile at motorists. Signal your turns and lane changes. Wave at other cyclists and pedestrians.
Entry Fee: $124, includes jersey.
Click the Share The Road button to register with RunSignUp and pay by credit card (includes a small service fee). International riders pay a bit more for shipping.