Drowned rats. That's what we looked like today at the Word and deed bike-a-thon. Almost three hundred people woke up early this morning, applied sunscreen, and headed out to Niagara Falls to do the 52km bike-a-thon to raise support for those suffering from AIDS in Africa; a very worth while cause that Word and Deed sponsors. Yesterday's forecast called for isolated showers; instead we experienced a extreme torrential downpour soon after the bikers took off. Biking along the beautiful Niagara River almost became a nightmare. The wind was so fierce that the white caps were spraying onto the bike path. Thunder and lightening shook the sky causing riders to grip on to their rubber handle bars. Parents were trying to downplay the severity of the nasty storm to their children hoping that it would spur them on but inside they were thinking "H.E.L.P, This is awful." It became impossible to ride on for many, and they huddled together taking refuge under trees. Drivers came along and crammed, and packed, many, many people into vans. Bikes were thrown onto whatever could transport them. Buses were filled to the max. People were beyond wet. Wet clothes, soaked shoes, dripping hair, running mascara, shivering lips, were the sights of the day. At one point people were gathered under a pavilion and this pavilion was designed in such a way that you could experience a nice cross breeze during a summer day. The wind was slicing through there causing those already wet to the bone to become even colder. Drivers and buses came to rescue these poor people and organizers were yelling, "Get on the bus. Women and children first." It was like an evacuation order. I could hardly get any pictures today because there was that much rain.
I am trying to describe the day, but it is almost impossible. You had to be there.
Instead of bike riders trickling in at the end of their route, bus loads of soaked, hungry people all arrived at the same time. They all wanted to stay around the hot grill so that they could dry off and warm up!
Actually, there is much to be thankful for.
~ $49,300 was raised for the AIDS clinic in Africa. That is just wonderful!
~besides a few cases of mild hypothermia, no one got hurt
~everyone remained in good spirits, helping out where help was needed
~we have many cases of left over water
~people that hardly knew one another got to know each other really quick when they were squished into a van together
~we are already looking forward to next year!
Actually, there is much to be thankful for.
~ $49,300 was raised for the AIDS clinic in Africa. That is just wonderful!
~besides a few cases of mild hypothermia, no one got hurt
~everyone remained in good spirits, helping out where help was needed
~we have many cases of left over water
~people that hardly knew one another got to know each other really quick when they were squished into a van together
~we are already looking forward to next year!
finale for 4 young people after the soaking wet bike-a-thon. They hit a post on the way home - still very close to NOL. The car was still somewhat driveable. Then close to Vineland, the snap broke on the bike rack, sending the 3 bikes attached dragging behind the wreck (I mean car). I hope these four wonderful young people are safely home again in Brantford. Maybe in a few years they can laugh about it. Love, Mom
ReplyDeleteKerri how absolutely dreadful!! and so is your Mom's story about the poor young people!! But for $49,000 for Africa and no injuries to report, I guess its safe to say it was totally worth it. You've inspired me, send me the details for next year when you get them, ok?? Have a great week!! :)
ReplyDeleteNow that we have passed the dreadful day, it was still a story in a life-time that will never be forgotten. Indeed we jumped in cars with folks we had never seen before and then were forced to face each other for the next 45 min.....we had lots to talk about. It was scary through that storm with no shelter but we knew God was in control. He made all things well. Thanks for the accurate update Kerri!! We'll be there next year DV, I so badly wanted to finish that ride.
ReplyDeleteDid this story get in the news? It would have brought some new publicity to Word and Deed indeed!
ReplyDeleteMy sister Diane led me to your blog! Great post.
On Sunday everyone was still talking about the bike-a-thon. I have heard so many stories from people's experience that I think that I will have to post part 2. Lucy, how neat it is to hear from you! I hope all is well with you and your family in Scotland!
ReplyDeleteKerri