The People

Inclusive Community | Coming on Your Own | Biking Experience | Eligibility

We plan for the November Ride to have between 120 and 150 participants from across the US, England, Canada, Israel, Australia and beyond! The 2007 Ride sold out, so sign up now with your friends before it is too late!

Inclusive Community

In addition to being a bike trip, the Ride is an opportunity to meet some fantastic people. Participants span three generations, and while some are new to cycling, others are seasoned riders. In 2007, 16 riders experienced their first time in Israel. There are also riders who have been to Israel many times before choosing to experience Israel in a new and unique way. Participants span a wide range of Jewish observance and non-observance, and indeed, those who are not Jewish. All the programming during the Ride strives to make all participants feel comfortable and welcome. Participants come together and create a special community for this exciting adventure.

The Ride attracts a very varied crowd. The Ride welcomes singles, and we typically have many family combinations, including parents and children, spouses, and other relatives.

2007 Ages 10-19 9 20-29 25 30-39 18 40-49 33 50-59 77 60-69 23 70+ 1

2007 Religious Affiliation Conservadox 24 Conservative 77 Orthodox 16 Reconstructionist 9 Reform 20 Renewal 6 Secular 14 Just Jewish 13 Christian 2 Other 5

2007 Family Types Individuals 125 Couples 10 sets (20 people) Parent(s) and Child(ren) 15 sets (30 people) 2007 Countries USA 157 Israel 15 Australia 4

Coming On Your Own

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Most riders come on their own and others come in pairs and/or groups. Check out the 2008 Rider List section to see if perhaps you know someone else who is going. The Ride staff can help you get in touch with other riders from your area. If not, don’t worry, most riders come on their own and look forward to meeting new people. It is very likely you will have some new friends before you leave, whether you come alone or with a group. Additionally, we can introduce you via email to other people in your community who are coming on the Ride.

Biking Experience

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One of the great pleasures of the Israel Ride is simply riding in Israel! Past Rides have attracted many different levels of riders. There are some riders who want to go at a faster pace or a longer distance, and others for whom a shorter distance or a slower pace will be far more enjoyable. We strive to create a Ride in which every participant will have an experience they will treasure for many years to come.

Past experience with long distance, multi-day rides in not a requirement to participate in the Israel Ride. Any average person in good health can train and do the Ride. But you will need to train. The best way to prepare yourself for this fun and challenging ride is to log time on your bike. We recommend a combination of daily cycling, long distance rides and group riding. We strongly encourage you to practice riding in a group setting before coming on the Israel Ride. Start training today. Spinning classes at your gym, training rides, or riding to work are great ways to get going. It is important to put the time and effort into training to ensure that your ride is fun and injury-free.

The Ride caters to all cycling levels. We have three riding groups; Shomrim (Guards) Tzofim (Scouts) and Chalutzim (Pioneers). Chalutzim is designed for stronger riders and will cover longer distances at a faster pace, while Tzofim attracts riders who prefer to travel at a more moderate pace. Shomrim will cover shorter distances with fewer hills. For more information, click here.
 

Eligibility for the Ride

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Riders must meet the following criteria:

• Be either be at least 20 years of age, have completed one year of college, or be at least 16 years of age and accompanied by an adult. Parents will be required to cycle with their children on the same route each day.
• Applications for riders 13-15 years old riding with an accompanying adult will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us at info@israelride.org.
• Be in good health. If you have a pre-existing condition, such as a pacemaker, we may require a doctor’s note.
• Meet the minimum fundraising commitment by January 15, 2009 (Fall Ride).