This is a blog post you don’t want to miss… Today we officially started our trek across the country, but it was not as glamorous as we imagined. The day started off normal with our 7am departure from Central Park. However, it took the team about an hour to travel the 10 miles to the Gorge Washington Bridge (not surprising considering we were biking through the heart of NYC). On the way, it started to rain, and the temperatures plummeted, giving riders the chills deep into their bones. Although crossing the bridge meant the start of the rain, it was a highlight of the day as we got to see the beautiful city of NYC from afar.

Once in Jersey, our riders confronted many more challenges, in addition to the weather. Through five flats, a broken derailleur, many wrong turns, and a good dose of hydrogen peroxide, the team pushed through our first 70 miles and came out for the better!

Even though the first day was tough, it was worthwhile in the end. In New Jersey, we had the pleasure of staying with the family of one of our Illini 4000 founders, Anish Thakkar. They were wonderful hosts – greeting us with fresh watermelon, cold drinks, and hot showers. After dinner, our hosts surprised us with cake! As we sat around the table, we discussed the Illini 4000 and our mission. Discussing the purpose of our ride, especially after a tough day, reminded us of just how much our hard work will pay off.

We would like to extend a special thanks to the Thakkar and Sangakar families. We may have had a rough morning but your hospitality turned our day around! Thank you so much for always supporting us!

After a long 23-hour train ride, we arrived in New York City on Thursday night. We were met by a former rider, Sean Laude, who lead the team through the heart of the city to Read more…

There is one more week remaining before the 2013 Bike America Team departs for New York City! With 21 riders led by Illini 4000 President Gregory Colten, we’re all very excited to see them off Read more…

Today was our 90 mile training ride and we got to experience what a day in the life of I4K is really like. The 2013 Team had the opportunity to lead groups on our own Read more…

Riders completed their 75 mile ride last weekend, encountering Kickapoo hills, flooded roads, and some much awaited warm weather! Later that day, we attended Relay for Life, hosted by Colleges Against Cancer, and cycled on Read more…

Last Saturday, Illini 4000 alumni joined the team at Allen Hall for the annual Alumni Ride, this year a 30 mile ride. Riders from 2010 through 2012 joined the 2013 Bike America Team for some Read more…