The latest event news, stories and more from the Audi Best Buddies Challenges.

SUPER Fundraising idea!

2011-01-31T14:46:00.000-08:00

Ah, yes, the annual Super Bowl Party. It always seems most people watch the “big game” at someone’s house. It makes for an easy place to enjoy the game, some good food and keep a close eye on the hilarious commercials. Better yet, it provides a BIG opportunity to fundraise for Best Buddies!

Here’s a sure-fire way to raise at least $650 for Best Buddies by hosting a Super Bowl Party for 20 people!

1. If you sponsor the food and drink, and buy it in bulk, you can realistically buy food for 20 people for around $100 (cost effective items to make: chili, queso dip, “smokies,” buffalo chicken dip”)

2. Have all of those who attend make a donation of $25 to Best Buddies, which INCLUDES one $5 “square” for the ever-popular Super Bowl Square Game.

3. At the party, sell the additional 80 squares (to make 100 total) to the attendees of the party. Pay out the person who has halftime score correct 10% of the pot, the final score 40% of the pot, with the other 50% of the pot going to Best Buddies! The payouts should be $50 for the halftime score winner, $200 for the final game winner, and $250 for Best Buddies. Usually the winners of the pool will end up donating some or all of the money to Best Buddies anyway!

4. For those that aren’t into football, have optional board boards to get their competitive juices flowing. The winner of these games (a Scrabble tournament, knockout Apples to Apples) can also throw $10 into a pot with ½ the proceeds going to Best Buddies!

There you have it! In this scenario, if you pull off this modest super bowl party you will fundraise lots of money for Best Buddies!

Fundraising Tip: Le Tour de France!

2010-07-16T07:15:00.000-07:00

Alright Hearst Castle participants – if you haven’t gotten started with you fundraising OR want to add a little extra to what you have raised already– now is the perfect time! With another week to go of the biggest race in the cycling world Le Tour de France gives you a few, creative fundraising opportunities.

1. Throw a viewing party for your friends. Have each person donate a small amount ($20 or more) and then watch the pros as they pedal through their three-week journey around France. Now is the perfect time to plan a Finale Viewing Party!

2. Start a friendly pool with friends, family and co-workers, making bets on who will win the whole thing! To make sure this helps you raise funds, let your Coach know your plans, and we can send you some loot for the winners. Everyone chips in $20, which will count as a donation towards your fundraising goal, and the winners will receive Best Buddies jerseys, riding gloves, etc!

3. Organize a Tour-de-France spin-a-thon. Create a French music playlist to spin to, and take a 20-mile stretch from that day’s course to mimic. Basically, as you are spinning away, the pros are doing the same. Charge an entry fee and sell raffle tickets for people to bet on what the day’s best time will be. Donations go to you; winner wins a Best Buddies jersey.

Happy viewing and happy fundraising!

FUNDRAISING TIP: An Inspiring Update

2010-05-17T06:41:00.000-07:00

For this week's Fundraising Friday blog entry - I decided that instead of providing a fundraising tip or suggestion - it would be more beneficial to share with you some exciting and inspiring news:

The 2010 Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port has reached incredible milestones this week!

- We have already surpassed our total number of participants from last year.

- Our participants have already raised more than TWO MILLION dollars which is already funding friendships, job placements, and leadership development throughout our Best Buddies Chapters.

-We are receiving more and more donations, checks, and matching gifts each day and are right on track to make this year's event the biggest and most successful to date!

Thank you to all of our Hyannis Port participants, donors, and supporters who continue to help us exceed our goals. We are so excited to see what the next two months of fundraising will bring!

And to the Hearst Castle folks - pretty inspiring stuff huh? Let's see what you all can do this year!

Shed the Weight

2010-05-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

Training Tuesday is back again with our resident former-Pro cyclist, Richard Fries. Here's his take on training nutrition and weight loss.

Shed the weight. Bike riding is all about the power-to-weight ratio. Training will increase the power but can also increase the appetite. Many beginner cyclists struggle with weight loss. There are a few tips from pro cyclists to help.

Fill your kitchen with healthy food.
Try smoothies with protein powder as the first thing you consume after a ride. That will knock down the hunger.
Soup's on. Clear broth soups are full of nutrition, filling, and low fat. A great lunch during training.
Hydrate. A lot of time people confuse thirst with hunger. Drink water.
Salad, salads, salads. Enjoy salads with chicken or fish a few times each week as your main meal.
Cut back on the booze. Beer and wine are fine in small doses but have a lot of calories. And their consumption leads to other bad snacking habits.

Those tips usually work to keep weight down. And remember that simply riding makes your body crave healthier food.

5 Steps to $500

2010-05-03T07:08:00.000-07:00

In case you missed this tip in the Newsletters that we sent out last week, we wanted to remind you just how easy it is to start your fundraising and raise $500 or to add $500 to your already existing fundraising dollars!

Check it out and GET STARTED TODAY!

From $0 to $500: The 5-Step Fundraising Fix
1. Start by sponsoring yourself - $50
2. Ask 4 family members to sponsor you at $25 - $100
3. Ask 10 friends to sponsor you at $20 - $200
4. Ask 5 co-workers to sponsor you at $10 - $50
5. Ask 4 local businesses that you frequent for $25 donations - $100

You can do this in a weekend, and just think about what would happen if you asked each person for $5 to $10 more than we suggest…the donations will roll in before you know it!

Training Tips from a Pro

2010-04-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

Our resident former pro-cyclist, and all around bike guru, Richard Fries, will be offering up some training tips for the Challenge community as we get closer to our Hyannis Port event (on June5th)! Read on for some words of wisdom...

Little rides add up. Ride your bike as often as possible during weekdays. Ride to the supermarket. Ride to the kids' baseball game. Ride to your friends' barbecue. And perhaps best of all, ride to and from work. You would be surprised how simple, fun and easy commuting can be especially for a busy person.

With a little bit of planning, the time we spend stuck in traffic or waiting for transit can become your training time. Take some time to map out interesting routes. You'll discover a whole new network of roads and trails that are off the highway.

A ride of 10 miles or less in a metro area usually is faster by bike than any other means. So get to work and get fit.

Team FUNDRAISING Events Taking Off

2010-04-09T12:52:00.001-07:00

With the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port coming up in just two months we are starting to hear about some teams that are really starting to kick their fund raising into gear!

We wanted to feature a few of the events we have heard about so that you can attend, host a similar event for your own fund raising efforts, or share what you are doing with us!

If you have any questions about the events listed below or would like us to feature your upcoming fund raising event please email kellybeatty@bestbuddies.org

TOMORROW SATURDAY APRIL 10th - Team William Spin-a-Thon at Fitness For You in North Andover, MA at 12:00 pm.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 14th - Toole Time Fundraiser at the Mayflower Brewery in Plymouth MA from 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

SATURDAY MAY 1st -Richard Berman's Twilight Showcase Live Fundraiser at Second Church of Plymouth in Plymouth MA from 4:00 - 7:00 pm.

THURSDAY MAY 6th - Team UPS Fundraiser at Dedham Health and Raquet Club in Dedham, MA from 6:00 -8:00 pm.

The fundraising dollars for Best Buddies are rolling in - keep up the great work and don't forget about our training ride THIS SUNDAY!

FUND RAISING TIP: Train and Fund raise...Fund raise and Train

2010-03-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

Hello Again - it is time for this week's Fund raising Friday tip!

This week I am suggesting Fund Raising while Training at the same time! You may wonder how this can be possible and the simple answer is...ERRANDS!

Friends, neighbors, co-workers and just about everyone you come in contact with each day is probably pretty busy so why not offer to run some errands for them and do this on your bike?!

Ride into town with a backpack on your back to pick up a few grocery items that a neighbor needs. Hear a co-worker complain that she doesn't have enough hours in the day to get to the post office? Offer to ride to the post office on your lunch break and take care of all her mailing needs!

You get the picture - you can help people out while getting a training ride in and in gratitude of the errand you run for them - ask people to go on home and make a donation on your personal fund raising page or write you a check to Best Buddies on the spot.

Here in Boston it is supposed to be cold but nice this weekend so get out and train and run a few errands at the same time!

Finally, some sun!

2010-03-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

So for all of my fellow New Englanders, we are finally seeing the first indications of spring. Sun, little flower buds, warmer days...longer days, and people - outside and loving it. If you are like me, you are dying to get out there for lunchtime, after work, even earlier in the morning, just because you don't need a hat and gloves anymore.

This also means it's time to get back on your bike to get training. Here's Boston.com's listing of a few Boston-area bike routes that are great options to try...ENJOY!

http://www.boston.com/thingstodo/gallery/bikes/

FUNDRAISING TIP: Do What You Love...Love What You Do

2010-03-13T08:20:00.001-08:00

When brainstorming fund raising ideas for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge - don't forget about your hobbies, skills, and the things you enjoy doing the most.

While emails and letters are great why not put a little FUN into FUNd raising?!

Here are some examples:

If you enjoy baking - offer to bake and deliver a different type of cookies each month for a year for a donation of $200.

If you enjoy gardening - invite friends, neighbors, and co-workers over for a "how to session." Ask for a $25 donation for the session and then offer advice on what flowers, plants, and vegetables folks should think about buying this year and even do a demonstration.

If you enjoy children - offer to babysit so that friends can enjoy a night out. Let them know that half (or all) of what they pay you will be going towards Best Buddies and they will be sure to be extra generous!

If you enjoy golf - why not organize a fun tournament at your local club? Golf season is about a month away so planning now would be perfect

And last but not least...if you enjoy taking part in March Madness (as I do!) consider asking for a donation towards Best Buddies as the entrance fee for your bracket or have the winner talk half and Best Buddies take half.

This list could go on forever; keep in mind that fund raising really can be fun when you do the things you already enjoy!

Come Meet Us!

2010-03-10T11:44:00.000-08:00

To the 2010 Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port Community:

Over the past few weeks I have had the opportunity to meet many of you in person. Whether you came to our Captains Night, Kick Off Party, or one of our bike shop visits - THANK YOU for coming out!

It has been truly wonderful to get to know the Audi Best Buddies Challenge community and it has been awesome to put a face to an email address or hear first hand about who you ride in honor of and why this event means so much to you.

For those of you who have not yet been able to make it to one of our events, I would like to extend a special invitation for you to come out and meet this year's Ride Team!

Currently we are hosting most of our outreach events at local bike shops. Warm weather is on it's way (we hope!) and with that comes time for training outdoors! Why not pick up some bike equipment that you need while also grabbing a beer with your Coach? Why not come share your stories from past rides while meeting new riders? Why not come register for the 2010 Audi Best Buddies Challenge or receive training and fund raising advice from your Coach?

We would love to meet you (and your friends, neighbors, and families) so consider stopping by one of our upcoming events:

Thursday, March 11 at Cycle Loft in Burlington @ 7:00

Monday, March 15 at Quad Cycles in Arlington @ 6:30

Tuesday March 16 at Back Bay Bikes in Boston@ 6:00 (Note: The shop will be offering $15 off bike tune ups and a 25% discount on accessories during the event!)

Thursday March 18 at Bicycle Alley in Worcester @ 6:30

We hop to see you soon! Thank You for all that you do on behalf of Best Buddies and for those of you that participate in the Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hearst Castle - your Coaches will soon be out and about at bike shops, training rides, and coffee shops - get excited!

FUNDRAISING TIP: The Importance of Following Up

2010-02-26T07:08:00.000-08:00

Someone once told me that for the average person it takes 6 “asks” before they actually remember to make a donation. This surprised me because asking someone six times for money seems like quite a lot! Think about it though: between work, taking care of kids, taxes, etc. often times a letter from a friend asking for a donation gets lost in a stack of bills or an email ends up in a spam filter or filed away in a folder of “things to deal with later.”

It is CRUCIAL that you FOLLOW UP with your potential donors! In many cases people genuinely want to make a donation and support you and the Best Buddies cause but they simply forget!

Because asking people for money over and over again can feel like “nagging” and can be a bit uncomfortable, I would like to suggest “UPDATE EMAILS”.

The Update Email reminds people that you are still training and fund raising for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge without directly asking them again for money. Check out this example:

Hello Family and Friends,

I wanted to send you a quick email to update you on my progress for the upcoming Audi Best Buddies Challenge! So far (thanks to generous support from many of you) I have raised $500 which puts me one third of the way to my total goal!

THANK YOU so much for all of your support! I am have been so touched and impressed by how generous you all have been.

I also wanted to keep you posted on how my training is going. I tried spinning for the first time last week and am now really getting into it! My longest ride so far has been 20 miles so I am making progress towards my goal of being able to ride 50 miles on June 5th!

Thanks so much for your support and encouragement and if anyone has not yet had time to visit my personal web page and make a donation please visit: INSERT LINK TO PAGE HERE

Thanks!
INSERT NAME

*Don’t forget it is also really important to follow up with those that DID MAKE A DONATION. Thank you emails or hand written notes go a long way to show how grateful you are and will help inspire this donor to support you again in the future!

FUNDRAISING TIP: 100 DAYS EMAIL

2010-02-19T08:49:00.000-08:00

Are you participating in the Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port 100 mile ride this year?

If so then mark your calendars, set a reminder, and do whatever it takes to get the email below out to family, friends, and co-workers on Friday February 26th

Dear Friends and Family,

In 100 days I will be riding 100 miles in support of people with intellectual disabilities. Although it has been chilly outside training is always on my mind as I prepare for this amazing ride in support of some pretty amazing people.

In addition to my training, I am also working hard to raise important dollars to support Best Buddies programs. Over the next 100 days I will raise at least INSERT FUND RAISING GOAL dollars!

I can’t do this without your support and every little bit helps so please visit my personal fund raising page today: INSERT LINK TO PERSONAL FUND RAISING WEB PAGE

Thank you so much for supporting me as I challenge myself to change lives!

In Friendship,

INSERT YOUR NAME

Please note this fund raising tip above could be used for either event (HP and HC) and any distance!
50 days until I will ride 50 miles in support of Best Buddies
20 days until I will ride 20 miles in support of Best Buddies
15 days until I will ride 15 miles in support of Best Buddies
35 days until I will ride 35 miles in support of Best Buddies
62 days until I will ride 62 miles in support of Best Buddies
3 weeks until I will walk a 3k in support of Best Buddies
5 weeks until I will run a 5k in support of Best Buddies

Fundraising First - Tips from a Team

2010-02-13T07:54:00.000-08:00

We, at the Audi Best Buddies Challenge, are always looking for fundraising tips to share with our participants. Sometimes, the best people to ask for these ideas are our participants. I wanted to share the first tip (of six) from Julie Sears of Team Six Degrees. All 6 Fundraising Tips will be featured in this month's newsletter...so here's an excellent teaser for what's to come...

#1 Make it Personal! Think of one moment in your life where a friend made the difference! And then start writing! The more real, the more heart-felt you can relay that the better. Everyone can relate to a friend that as made their day….and that is why we are riding and running anyway! It is to give everyone a chance to have a friend like that! So make it real! Sell it! Don’t use just the generic write up that Best Buddies provides on your personal webpage. Keep the parts you want of course, but make it your own! If I read your personal story about a friend and it makes me smile, laugh out loud or cry I’m gonna donate!!!! Guaranteed!!!!

For tips 2-6, keep an eye out for the February Newsletter.

Hyannis Port Kick Off Party - One Week Away

2010-02-11T08:33:00.000-08:00

For the first time, we’ve decided to celebrate the start of our event season in a BIG way! Come meet and mingle with the Audi Best Buddies Challenge Staff, as well as past, present and future participants, over drinks and passed hors d’oeuvres. We will also be celebrating the premiere of The Greatest Bar’s two new paintings of Ted and Bobby Kennedy by local artist, Giovanni DeCunto. Mix 104.1’s DJ Freddy will be emceeing, so come and register at our lowest rate and help us kick-off the season! Bring a friend (or 5) and help us celebrate the eleventh annual Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port!

WHO: YOU and any friends you bring! Or anyone else interested in learning about the Audi Best Buddies Challenge
WHAT: The Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port Kick Off Party
WHEN: Thursday, February 18, 2010 from 6pm – 9pm
WHERE: The Greatest Bar, 262 Friend Street, Boston, MA 02114
WHY: To celebrate the eleventh Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port and register on site!

RSVP to catelaroche@bestbuddies.org

Taking Training Inside

2010-02-09T11:36:00.000-08:00

Whether you’re training for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port or Hearst Castle you may be thinking about the weather a lot lately. The Bay area has just experienced some harsh rainfall and the weathermen in Boston are scaring everyone with a report of a foot of snow for tomorrow. You can’t afford to have your training thrown off by weather. What do you DO?! Take the training inside, silly.

Get to your gym. You know that place signed up for a year ago, never go to, but still pay for every month? Treadmills and stationary bikes are great ways to stay in training shape while staying dry and warm.
Look into what classes your gym offers. For cyclists you will never take a class better than spinning. For you runners/walkers try to find a class that you like and get the heart rate going.
If you don’t belong to a gym take a couple minutes and make some calls to fitness centers in your area. You will find that many of them offer free week long “visitor” passes or monthly specials.
Get a stationary trainer or rollers. Both these items allow you to set up your own training area at your house. Just put yourself in front of the TV and get caught up on Lost or Mad Men. If any Hyannis Port participants have more questions about buying stationary trainers or rollers come out and visit the Audi Best Buddies Challenge Team at a bike shop event in your area and If you are running or walking check out what options you have “On Demand”. Most cable providers have a fitness menu where you can choose from a large selection of workouts and make your pulse rise for 15-30 minutes.
There are always activities and little changes you can make in your life to stay fit in the cold. Take the stairs not the elevator. Walk around the mall. Clean your house. Go out dancing. Play basketball or hockey. Play Wii with your kids. Just get moving.

It’s cold out there. But you can stay fit, stay motivated, and stay safe.

Fundraising and Football

2010-02-05T12:20:00.000-08:00

In case you didn't see it in our January Newsletter, we featured our top five ways to fundraise at a Super Bowl Party. With the big game just 2 days away, you can easily add any of these ideas into your Super Sunday festivities and get your fundraising started! Check it out:

Organize an office/family/friend/Facebook pool. Winner gets to gloat and a donation in their name to the Challenge!
Having a party? Charge $1 per buffalo wing or $3 a burger. People love their game time grub, and they will be more than happy to support a good cause while doing so.
Put together a 50/50 raffle at your Super Bowl Party. Half goes to the winner and half goes to a great cause!
Organize a “Touchdown Pool”. Have everyone at the party put in a $10 donation. Write names of Colts and Saints. Put them in a hat. Have each person draw one name out of the hat. If the player that they draw scores first, they win and get to have a large donation made in their name to Best Buddies.
JUST ASK!!! If you are hosting a party put out a donations jar and let people know about the Challenge. If you aren’t hosting a party tell everyone what you are doing and ask them to donate. The natural camaraderie of sports is great way to encourage fellow fans to support your participation in the Challenge!

A little bit, every day

2010-01-27T11:09:00.000-08:00

By a show of hands, how many of you are sticking to those lofty training goals that you made for the new year? OK, hands down. For those of you who, like me, have been slacking on getting out there and logging some miles, enough is enough! Let's make a pact, right here, right now, that our training behavior is going to change for the better! Who's coming with me?

Here's what works for me: Rather than thinking about "training for a century or a 5k," break it up in to much smaller and way more manageable pieces. When I go out for a ride, I prefer to keep time, rather than pay attention to miles. For example, "today, I am going to ride my bike for 1 hour and 15 minutes." Or, "today, I am going to jog for 5 minutes and walk for 2, for a total of 45 minutes." Or something like that. By breaking up your workouts into smaller and more manageable pieces, they feel less overwhelming and much more do-able!

Here's one for all you out here in the Bay Area. I love the rain, but, it sure does make getting outside to train awfully difficult. So here is my advice: If you have the flexibility to control your schedule during the day, keep an eye on that window and as soon as you see a break in the rain, head out for a quick training session! Remember to stay close to home so that if it really starts to come down while your out, you can make it back to dry land quickly. Also, remember that "cotton kills" when your exercising, but even more so when it is raining! Plan your wet weather outfits accordingly by staying away from cottons and other, slow-drying fabrics.

There is one positive thing about exercising in the rain, and I'll tell you, it's a pretty cool one. Last weekend, Coach Jeremiah and I went out for a 30 mile loop in and around Marin county. When we left, the skies were looking pretty grey and there was a light sprinkle coming down. No problem, we'll just watch our speed around corners and descents and accept the fact that we'll have pretty hot looking rain tails on our backs from all the water on the ground. Long story short, during that 30 mile trip, we experienced bright blue skies with warm sun, pouring, and I do mean POURING down rain, light drizzle, fresh breeze, fog, more rain, and more sun. It was a FANTASTIC ride. We were soaking by the time we arrived back home, but it was worth it. Not only was it really fun to experience the various micro climates that move in and out of this area, but in the process, it gave us an excuse to spend time outside in the elements, which is something that I don't allow myself to do very often. Now I am not saying that I want to ride in the rain all the time, but I will say that turning those pedals as the rain was pelting my face made me feel energized and alive! And I encourage you all to try it sometime!

(Just remember to take it slow around the turns!)

See you on the road.

Using your Email (Signature) to Fundraise

2010-01-26T06:25:00.001-08:00

As most of you can guess, or have already started to do, the easiest way to begin fundraising for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge is to send out emails to everyone you know. Emailing is such an instant form of communication that you may start to see donations rolling in within minutes. There is, however, another less obvious way to use your email to hook potential donors: your signature.

Email signatures are set up by users usually to display contact information, but we've found that adding in a message to let recipients know that you are training and fundraising for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge will act as a great reminder for potential donors or even pique the interest of someone you might not have thought to ask for a donation. You never know who might have a connection to Best Buddies or to a person with intellectual or developmental disabilities, so it can't hurt!

Make sure that you include your shortened link to your HQ page, so that recipients can go right to your website and make a donation. Here's a simple example of an email signature that is just waiting for you to personalize it!

Sincerely,
Joe Smith

P.S. On June 5th, I will be taking part in the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port. As a rider, I have committed to ride 100 miles and fundraise $1,550 for people with intellectual disabilities. I need your support! To donate to me, please visit my personal web page: www.HPChallenge2010.org/joesmith

Setting up a signature will just take a minute, but it can help you reach (and pass!) your fundraising commitment quickly and easily!

The Santos Tour Down Under: Jan 17-24, 2010

2010-01-15T11:50:00.000-08:00

Need a little motivation to train this month? I've always found there's nothing better than watching the pros race to get me motivated to ride! Fortunately, this Sunday marks the start of the 2010 UCI Pro Tour race series. The first of this 16-race series kicks off with the Santos Tour Down Under. This festival of cycling starts with the Santos Tour Down Under Classic, a criterium race set in the heart of Adelaide's city center followed by 6 stages and almost 500 miles of racing. Some of the biggest names in cycling - Lance Armstrong, George Hancapie, David Allan and Cadel Evans to name a few - will be fighting it out for the Ochre Leader's Jersey.

Daily coverage of the Santos Tour Down Under can be seen on Versus. Check your local listings for air times and prepare to see some great racing! If watching this race doesn't get you excited to ride your bike, I'm not sure what will!

Jeremiah Angel
Audi Best Buddies Challenge

Happy Veterans Day!

2009-11-11T10:55:00.000-08:00

Best Buddies is honored to have the support of our men and women in military service.

Get on your bikes and ride!

2009-11-02T09:26:00.000-08:00

Hi gang!

Alright, this post goes out to all you ghosts, goblins, witches, pirates and ninjas! I really hope you had a great weekend and made some time to eat some sweet treats...I know I did! But don't worry, eating loads of candy is FINE when you are cycle-inclined!

On this first Monday of November, take a minute to notice the trees changing colors and the temperature dropping a few degrees (or more! Sorry East coasters!). There is something very special about this time of year, and in my opinion, there is no better way to observe this than by heading out on your bicycle and going for a ride!

Head out down a road you have never ridden before, or stick to your tried and true routes. Ask a friend to head out with you or look into tagging along with a local recreational riding club. If your like me, we are heading in to what I like to call, "over-eatin' season," so get out there now and make some room!

Also, if you find yourself up in the Bay Area and would enjoy a little time on the dirty dirt, head over to the Marin Headlands, just north of the Golden Gate for some hilly but beautiful fire roads and trails. Now is the time to see some incredible changes in the natural environment, and you may even see a coyote or two!

Ok friends, thanks for checking in!

Have good days,

Coach Tim

Remembering a Wonderful Person

2009-08-14T06:21:00.000-07:00

Today, Best Buddies employees are taking the day to remember and reflect on the inspiring life of Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Her dedication to the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through the Special Olympics - and influence of the shaping and building of Best Buddies with her son, Best Buddies founder Anthony Kennedy Shriver - guides all of us on a daily basis as we try to make the world a better place. In her honor, we'd like to share a video dedicated to Mrs. Shriver that our friends at Plymouth Rock Studios haves put together.

Find more videos like this on Hollywood East TV

We will continue to celebrate all of Mrs. Shriver's incredible achievements as we get closer to the Audi Best Buddies Challenge Hearst Castle. For more information about this amazing woman, please visit: http://www.eunicekennedyshriver.org/.

Easy Paced "Get to Know Your Bike" Training Ride

2009-07-23T12:48:00.001-07:00

Check it out! On Thursday, July 30th, join Ride Coaches Tim Schneider and Jeremiah Angel for a training ride geared toward the beginners. Folks who are simply interested in finding out some more information about basic bike handling, group ride etiquette, etc. are more than welcome to attend too!

We will be meeting at the Beach Chalet Restaurant on the corner of the Great Hwy and JFK Drive at 5:30 pm. Bike Basics talk will begin shortly there after followed by a 6:00pm ride out. Our route will be short (less than 10 miles) and our speed will be easy. This is a no-drop ride, meaning no one will be left behind! The ride will finish back at the Beach Chalet, so bring some money for tasty post ride beverages!

So grab your helmet and bike and bring your questions and join us!

If you have any questions or to RSVP, please email Tim at: timschneider@bestbuddies.org

See you there!

Happy Hour with the Best Buddies Ride Coaches

2009-07-21T16:21:00.000-07:00

Join our Ride Coaches, Jeremiah Angel and Tim Schneider, for an informal gathering at Gordon Biersch Brewery in San Francisco or Palo Alto. These will be a casual social gatherings at the brewery for happy hour and a great chance to meet up with our staff and other riders. Don't forget to invite some of your friends along so that they can learn more about our ride and hopefully join you on the road to the Hearst Castle. We hope to see you there!

San Francisco - Wednesday, July 22
Location - Gordon Biersch Brewery in San Francisco (2 Harrison St. San Francisco, CA 94105)
Time: 6:00-8:00 pm

Palo Alto - Thursday, July 23
Location - Gordon Biersch Brewery in Palo Alto (640 Emerson St. Palo Alto, CA 94301)
Time: 5:00-7:00 pm

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Tour de France

2009-07-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

With the biggest race in the cycling world well underway, the 21-stage, 96th Tour de France gives you a few, creative fundraising opportunities.
1. Throw a viewing party for your friends. Have each person donate a small amount ($20 or more) and then watch the pros as they pedal through their three-week journey around France. Be sure to keep an eye out for Hearst Castle alumni riders David Zabriskie and Ryder Hesjedal who will be racing the tour on Team Garmin-Slipstream!

2. Start a friendly pool with friends, family and co-workers, making bets on who will win the whole thing! To make sure this helps you raise funds, let your Ride Coach know your plans, and we can send you some loot for the winners. Everyone chips in $20, which will count as a donation towards your fundraising goal, and the winners will recieve Best Buddies jerseys, riding gloves, etc!

3. Organize a Tour-de-France spin-a-thon. Create a French music playlist to spin to, and take a 20-mile stretch from that day’s course to mimic. Basically, as you are spinning away, the pros are doing the same. Charge an entry fee and sell raffle tickets for people to bet on what the day’s best time will be. Donations go to you, winner wins a Best Buddies jersey.

Ride Coach Jeremiah Angel Recommends: "Overcoming"

2009-07-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

Clips from the 2005 documentary, "Overcoming"

Before the 2009 edition of Tour de France starts on Saturday I'd like to recommend searching out a somewhat hard to find, but well worth the effort, 2005 documentary titled "Overcoming." The film is a profound and penetrating insight into the hermetically closed world of professional cycling. With former pro rider, Tour de France winner Bjarne Riis as the protagonist, the documentary follows him and his new Team CSC as they strive for the impossible: to become the world's best and win the 2004 Tour de France. Also notably featured in the documentary is Team CSC rider Bobby Julich, who participated in last year's Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle. The film is epic, beautifully shot and gives viewers a unique and personal account of what it's like to participate in the world's toughest sporting event, the Tour de France.

Pictures from Hyannis Port Now Online

2009-07-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

We've just finished uploading pictures from our 2009 Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port event to our flickr account. Click here to view our photo set!

It's Registration Time!

2009-06-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

Alright all of you fence-sitters...let this be one final final push for you to register for the 2009 Audi Best Buddies Challenge. Yes, there is still 2 and a half months until the ride...and yes, you will still be able to register after Tuesday, but the next 5 days are the last 5 days that anyone will be able to register at our lower, fundraising commitment level of $1,450!

Let me give you a few reasons to register:

1. 100% of your fundraising commitment will got directly back into Best Buddies programs and make a difference in so many people's lives. Best Buddies needs your support more than ever and every donation helps.

2. This is the only 5-star, Highway 1 century ride that will be jam packed with incredible views, a challenging and rewarding route, after-ride festivities that will blow your mind (hot showers, professional massage, gourmet Hearst Castle BBQ, Ciara Concert...I could keep going...), and the certainty that you are doing it all for a fantastic cause.

3. Last Sunday was my (Cate, the ride coach's) birthday...and having you register would be a fantastic belated bday gift! (In fact, let's get 23 new riders/runners/walkers before July in honor of the age I just turned...that would be AWESOME!)

4. What fantastic motivation for summer fitness than to have a big ride/run/walk to be committed to at the very end of the summer?!

After Tuesday, the lowest fundraising level will be $1,700...which is still not too shabby, but why not commit now to $1,450 and then surpass that goal! Click here to begin the registration process. Email hccoach@bestbuddies.org with any questions! Join us and challenge yourself to change lives!

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Host a BBQ

2009-06-17T16:51:00.000-07:00

Looking for a good way to rally your friends, family and neighbors to support your fundraising efforts? Pick a nice warm weekend and host a BBQ fundraiser! You can cook hot dogs and hamburgers, serve corn, chips and other side dishes, and have people bring their own beverages. You can even ask your local grocery store to donated food or ask local businesses to donate raffle prizes (i.e. gift certificates to spas, the movies or restaurants). We suggest either selling tickets to your BBQ or making a solicitation for donations sometime during the event. Fundraising has never tasted so good! So go on, let the grilling begin and the donations are sure to come!

Speaking of Barbeques, Teams B4 and Team Chateau Julien invite you to attend their barbeques:

Team B4 is hosting their BBQ in Yorba Linda, CA on June 21 and Team Chateau Julien is hosting a series of BBQs on July 4, August 8 and 29. For more information on these events, click here.

This Weekend's Best Buddies Training Rides

2009-06-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

Hello Bay Area Riders,

I know this is a little last minute, but I’d like to invite you all to two great training rides just scheduled for this weekend. The weather forecast is looking great for Saturday and Sunday and with under 100-days until our big ride to the Hearst Castle, now is the time to take advantage of your weekends and put some good training miles under your legs. So come on out and meet some of your fellow event participants for two fun and relaxed training rides.

Saturday’s Ride:
Location: Cyclepath Bicycles (337 B Main St, Pleasanton, CA 94566)
Time: 8:15 am
Distance: Choice of 43, 20 or 30-mile ride

Join Best Buddies as we team up with KCBS, Channel 5's, Roberta Gonzales and Cyclepath Bicycles in downtown Pleasanton for a great ride around the East Bay. Departing Cyclepath Bicycles at 8:15 am, the ride will be an easy paced 43 miles with several stops for regrouping and turn off points for shorter 20 or 30 mile loops. Cyclepath Bicycles is located at 337 B Main St. (Behind the Bank of America Building), Pleasanton, CA 94566. Following the ride will be a barbeque lunch back at Cyclepath Bicycles! Click here for a detailed route map.

Sunday’s Ride:
Location: Longs Drug Store (3420 Camino Tassajara, Danville, CA 94506)
Time: 9:00 am
Distance: 44 miles with an optional 25 mile Mt. Diablo extension.

Team PG&E would like to invite all riders to join in on their second team training ride of the year. Team Captain, Keith Reed, will lead a group on a mostly flat ride through Danville into Livermore Valley at a casual no drop pace. The ride will depart from Longs Drug Store in Danville at 9:00 am. Upon returning from the ride, those who wish to put in some additional miles can continue on for a 25 mile extended ride up Mt. Diablo (2,500 ft of climbing). Click here for a detailed route map.

If you have any questions regarding these rides, please call Jeremiah Angel at 415.379.4729.

Also, future training rides will be posted up on the Training Rides section of our website at least five days in advance. If you are interested in attending future rides, I would highly suggest visiting that section of our website before planning your weekend training. And lastly, if you or your team is interested in leading a weekend training ride please let me know and I’ll work with you to get information about your group ride on our website and in other communications with other Audi Best Buddies Challenge riders.

See you on the road,

Jeremiah Angel
Audi Best Buddies Challenge Coach

Fundraising Tip of the Week: 100 Days Until HC

2009-06-10T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! It's been a little while since our last post. We had an extremely successful Hyannis Port Challenge and have been recovering for a week or so. We'll be sharing photos from the event as soon as they come back. Hearst Castle participants...if HC is anywhere near as awesome as HP was, you are in for an unforgettable day!

Now, down to fundraising business. Last Thursday, June 4, marked 100 days until the Hearst Castle ride. Friday, June 12, marks exactly 3 months until HC. Whatever way you want to look at it, September 12 is coming up quickly and before we know it, you'll be coasting down the PCH. In honor of 100 days until the event...err, 94 days...I wanted to share this special letter sample we've drafted for participants to share with donors. Send it out to 10 people, asking for $10, and you've got yourself a quick and easy $100! Happy Fundraising!

Dear (Your Friend’s Name),

100 days from now, I’ll proudly sport my bike shorts and Audi Best Buddies Challenge jersey, and cycle 100 miles from Carmel to San Simeon to support people with intellectual disbilities! And I need your support to get me there!

The Best Buddies Challenge is a one-of-a-kind five-star event, and it benefits a very important organization. Best Buddies is an international non-profit that supports people with intellectual disabilities by providing one-on-one friendships and integrated employment opportunities. In middle schools, high schools, colleges, and businesses across the country people are benefitting because of Best Buddies. Every single dollar that I raise will go directly to this great organization, so you can feel confident that 100% of your donations benefit people with intellectual disabilities! You can learn more about Best Buddies at www.bestbuddies.org.

Please consider making your tax deductible donation today. To kick-off the 100 –day count down to the Audi Best Buddies Challenge, I am committed to raising at least $100 this week- and with your help I know I can exceed that! As I cycle 100 miles along the coast of California, I’ll be thinking of you and your support, and when I cross the finish line on September 12, I’ll know that your donation made each and every mile happen. If you’d like to make a donation to me quickly and easily, visit hcchallenge.org then click on “sponsor participant,” and then search for me. You can also support my participation in the Audi Best Buddies Challenge Ride by sending me a check, written out to Best Buddies. I’ll be sure your donation gets to Best Buddies right away!

Thanks so much! And if you happen to be free 100 days from now, please come out and cheer me on! I’ll need it!

All my best,

Your Name Here

4 Days Until Hyannis Port!!

2009-05-26T08:01:00.000-07:00

With the Hyannis Port Challenge just days ago, it’s time to pack your bags and get ready! Do you have what you need?

Don’t forget to bring:

A positive attitude… you can do this ride! You’ve come so far, and now is the time to celebrate.
Friendship and good sportsmanship… help and encourage fellow riders, runners, and walkers! If you see someone alone, say hello! This event is all about friendships, so make yourself a new friend along the way.
Bicycle helmet, gloves, bike shorts and foul weather gear. You never know what the weather will be like in Boston in May…so be prepared! (And if we all bring rain gear, it won’t rain!)
Extra foods/fluids: energy gels and bars, dried fruits, fig bars, bladder-style drinking systems. We’ll have snacks along the route, but if you have a specific food that works for you, be sure to bring it!
Equipment/other: tubes, sew-ups, bike pump, quick fills, tire levers, allen wrenches, water bottles, small medical pouch (band-aids, blister block), cycling gloves, sunscreen, cell phone, money, driver license and credit card. We will have bike mechanics and medical support throughout the route, but it always helps to be prepared!
A change of clothes. There will be hot showers at the finish line, so bring a change of clothes so you can be comfortable for the after party!

Preparation
The following items should be worn:

Helmet (mandatory)
Gloves
Mirror (either on helmet, glasses or handlebar)
Audi Best Buddies Challenge jersey, T-shirt, windbreaker or clear raingear in bad weather or in diminished light conditions
Bike shorts are best for comfort and worn without underwear to prevent seam abrasions
Sturdy shoes: bike shoes are the best for pedaling efficiency

Check out the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port website for more last minute details. See you on Saturday!

Fundraising Tip of the Week: The Big Ask

2009-05-20T08:18:00.000-07:00

For Hyannis Port participants, you are down to the final stretch...Congrats and see you soon! For Hearst Castle participants, hopefully you are at least thinking about fundraising. HP participants, this tip is a little bit more for you to do in the next week or so. By now, you've sent emails and follow up emails and you have either passed your goal or are "this close" to it. Now is the time for a big, final push. Look back through the list of people you've reached out to and check to see who has donated. Next, look specifically at the list of those who did not donate. Is there one person on there who you were expecting to donate...possibly a big donation? This is who will be your Big Ask.

Invite this person for a cup of coffee or simply pick up the phone and call this special person to talk a little more about what drew you to participate in the Best Buddies Challenge. What about the Best Buddies mission impacted you most and is worth challenging yourself to ride/walk/run the many miles? Remind this person that you are not raising money for yourself, but instead for all of the people who are impacted by Best Buddies 6 different programs. Now comes the most important part. Ask for a specific amount, and aim high! Sometimes these donors don't know what you need or how much to give. By giving them an actual number, there's a good chance you will have a check being written out to Best Buddies on your behalf. Whether they give what you ask or more/less, that is a (big) donation that you would not have gotten had you not taken the extra time and personal touch to describe exactly what you needed from them.

For ideas of what to say, check out the Best Buddies International website or the Audi Best Buddies Challenge website. We are so excited to have 300+ more participants in this year's Hyannis Port Challenge (and hopefully more late-joiners) than in 2008! Happy Fundraising and enjoy your last pre-Challenge week!

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Training and Fundraising in One

2009-05-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

As I write this from my Boston office, I am constantly glancing out to window to make sure the sun is still shining. We have been feeling spring-like in Massachusetts for a few weeks now (and I'm sure California is gorgeous too...always). All of this awesome weather makes for the perfect time to organize a training ride to act like a fundraiser. Oh, the joys of multitasking.

Take a Saturday morning and map out a route around your neighborhood or along a bike path near your town. You can use MapMyRide.com to search for routes and map your own rides. You could also check in with a local bike shop to see if you can team up with them for a weekly ride (many shops host rides for their clients). Then invite family, friends, coworkers, etc. to come out and join you for a great morning ride! Ask your supporters to make donations along the route. You will be demonstrating your commitment to training and succeeding in the ride by leading the pack through your ride!

You might even consider hosting a picnic or BBQ after the ride to keep the festivities going. This is a great time to describe what the Audi Best Buddies Challenge is and why you are so excited to do it.

For route ideas, ride materials or any other ideas, don't hesitate to email us at hccoach@ bestbuddies.org. Also, if you would like to lead training rides in your area, let us know! We're always looking for route leaders and new training rides. Happy Fundraising and bring on the summer!

Best Buddies Celebrates Bike-to-Work Day

2009-05-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

May is National Bike Month with May 11-15 being Bike-to-Work Week and cities around the country hosting official Bike-to-Work Day events. We'd like to encourage all our Audi Best Buddies Challenge riders, walkers and runs to participate in Bike-to-Work Week and join fellow bike commuters in celebration of pedal power! Boston's official Bike-to-Work Day is on Friday, May 15 and for those of you in the Bay Area of California, our Bike-to-Work Day is on Thursday, May 14.

In San Francisco, our Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle staff is teaming up with our event sponsor, PG&E, to host a downtown "Energizer Station" where commuters can stop by for free coffee, bagels and other breakfast items. Our Energizer Station will be located on Beale Street between Market and Mission from 6:30 - 9:00 am. In addition to breakfast, we will also have lots of other cool give-away items. If you can't make it to our Energizer Station, there are 26 other stations which will be open to bike commuters around the Bay Area. For a detailed listing of all Energizer Stations and more information on the Bay Area's Bike-to-Work Day visit the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition's website.

ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCED: CIARA TO PERFORM AT HEARST CASTLE!!

2009-05-08T12:10:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to announce that this year at the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle, we will be celebrating at the finish line with an exciting performance from Grammy-winning artist, Ciara!

Ciara, one of People Magazine’s Most Beautiful People, brings her high-powered sound and energy to this great event! Ciara is best known for hit songs “One Two Step,” “Goodies,” “Like a Boy,” and her latest hit, “Love Sex Magic”. She has collaborated with some of today’s hottest musicians such as Justin Timberlake, Missy Elliot, Ludacris and Ne Yo. Bursting onto the music scene in 2004 with her album Goodies, Ciara has evolved into a hit-making, boundary-breaking musician with her just-released (and appropriately titled) third album, Fantasy Ride. Be sure to catch Ciara as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live, this Saturday, May 9!

So tune in to SNL for a sneak preview and register for the Challenge if you haven't already done so! It's bound to be an unforgettable day!

Fundraising Tip of the Week: This One is for Moms

2009-05-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is coming up on Sunday, May 10, and I'm sure your kids are scrambling to find the perfect bouquet of flowers or your favorite box of chocolate. We might suggest hinting to your children that donations to your Best Buddies Challenge fund are also happily accepted. Not only will your kids be showing how much they love and appreciate you, but they will be helping you support the Best Buddies mission.

A musical greeting card is great, as are the flowers, chocolates, and custom-made noodle necklaces, but a simple donation to your fundraising goal will last a lot longer through the friendships it builds and job opportunities it creates. Thank you for all that you do to support our Best Buddies family, and we can't wait to see you at the event!

For more fundraising tips, email hccoach@bestbuddies.org.

Register a Friend and Get $100 Towards Your Fundraising Commitment!

2009-05-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

We are all about promoting friendships at Best Buddies and so this month, we invite you to Challenge Yourself AND a Friend to Change Lives. From May 1 to May 30, when you and a friend register to Ride, Walk or Run in the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle, you will each receive a $100 credit toward your fundraising goal!

Here's How it Works:

Step 1: Get yourself registered! It’s so easy to do, just click here to get started!

Step 2: Ask a friend or family member to join you! Have them take the first step and register for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle at http://www.bestbuddieschallenge.org/.

Step 3: Let us know who you referred to register and get your $100 Credit! Email HCCoach@bestbuddies.org with your full first and last name, and the name of the friend you referred, so we can make sure you both get your credit.

That's It! You and your friend will be $100 closer to your fundraising commitment while also changing the lives of those living with intellectual disabilities.

For more information, please contact us at HCCoach@bestbuddies.org or call 1-800-718-3536

*$100 Credit will be applied prior to Hearst Castle Event Check-In *Limit of one promotion per person (maximum fundraising credit allowed is $100) *Offer valid for non-sponsor team registrations only *$100 Credit is non-transferable.

Fundraising Tip of the Week: $500 in 9 Days!

2009-04-29T08:08:00.000-07:00

You can do a lot of things in 9 days, like take an amazing vacation, sell your house or successfully get yourself on a training regimen. What if I told you that in 9 days, you could easily raise $500? We found this awesome guide to accomplish just that...and I bet you could even raise more!

Here's how:

Day 1 Start by sponsoring yourself for $25
Day 2 Ask two family members to sponsor you for $25 each
Day 3 Ask five friends to contribute $20
Day 4 Ask five co-workers to contribute $10
Day 5 Ask five people from your church/temple for $10
Day 6 Ask five neighbors to contribute $10
Day 7 Ask your boss for a company contribution of $25
Day 8 Ask five local merchants to sponsor you for $20
Day 9 Ask two businesses you frequent for $25 (doctor, dentist etc.)

There you go. $500 easy. And you are only asking 30 people total. With Hyannis Port riders coming up on the one-month-away mark, this easy 9 step plan will help get you to your fundraising commitment! Let us know how this works for you! Email us stories at hccoach@bestbuddies.org!

Our Next Bay Area Training Ride

2009-04-22T13:25:00.000-07:00

We hope everyone has enjoyed the great weather in the Bay Area these last few days. What perfect conditions for riding! That being said, we'd like to invite you to join your fellow riders this weekend for a training ride.

Ride Coach Jeremiah Angel will be leading a group ride departing from Golden Gate Park at 10:00 am on Saturday, April 25. Jeremiah will take the group on a ~35 mile ride across the Golden Gate Bridge and around the beautiful Tiburon Peninsula (AKA, The Paradise Loop). Click Here for a detailed look at Saturday's route on MapMyRide.com. Riders can expect an easy to moderate pace over the rolling terrain with a few stops for regrouping along the way.

For more information or to RSVP for this group ride, please email Jeremiah Angel . We can't wait to see you on Saturday!

WHAT: Audi Best Buddies Challenge training ride led by Ride Coach, Jeremiah Angel

WHEN: Saturday, April 25. Ride will depart Golden Gate Park (corner of Transverse & Overlook) at 10:00 am.

WHERE: Golden Gate Park to Tiburon (AKA, The Paradise Loop). Approximately 35-miles.

Please RSVP to Jeremiah as soon as possible to confirm your attendance and receive more details about the ride.

Note: In the case of rain, our training ride will be canceled. All those who RSVP will be notified of any cancelation on Saturday morning.

Have a question? Email JeremiahAngel@bestbuddies.org or call 415.379.4729.

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Use Your Tax Return!

2009-04-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

Just a week ago, people all over were scrambling to get their taxes into the Federal and State governments by the April 15 deadline. Now, everyone is eagerly checking their bank accounts to see when that glorious tax return will be happily placed back in our hands (and wallets). While you are gearing up to ask everyone you know to fork over some donations in the name of a great cause, why not set the bar high and make a self-donation...of some (or all) of your tax return?!

Chances are you usually use this money on a purchase you wouldn't otherwise make, but by donating to your Audi Best Buddies Challenge fund, you will inspire your donors to follow your lead and make substantial donations. This might even be the donation that brings you up to the next highest fundraising level (an extra ticket to the party? pass to the VIP post-ride bash?). It's a great way to jumpstart your fundraising and shows your continuing dedication to the Best Buddies mission.

Thank you for your constant support and happy fundraising! Contact us for more fundraising tips at HCCoach@bestbuddies.org.

Awesome Team Event on April 25 in Los Altos, CA

2009-04-17T09:32:00.001-07:00

Team FITBuddies is making a huge impact on the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle event! Led by team captain Jen Pleimann, Team FITBuddies is ever-growing and a great example of how to fundraise as a team. Just off the heels of a successful Dine for Dollars, Jen and her team are hosting a big event on April 25!

Here's a little background...A couple of years ago, Jen started a fitness program (appropriately named FIT Buddies) at FIT in Los Altos (where she works) specifically designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities. She has now organized a team of HC riders to support and continue to raise awareness for the amazing people she works with on a day-to-day basis. Plus, now more people will learn about the great work her gym is doing.

Now for the event. On April 25, members of Jen's team and her fitness programs will come together to spin and compete in the Crossfit Challenge. They are welcoming anyone to stop in, take a spin, compete in a workout, or just enjoy the BBQ, dunk tank and other family activities. The whole day will serve as a great way for more people to learn about Team FITBuddies and how they are participating in the Best Buddies Challenge, as well as to hopefully recruit some new team members.

If you are in there area, stop in and meet this incredible team. If you can't make it, take notes on how to be a successful and inspiring team! Good Luck Team FITBuddies!

WHEN: Saturday, April 25 from 8am - 2pm
WHERE: FIT @ Rancho Shopping Center in Los Altos, CA, 600 Fremont Ave.
WHAT: Spin-a-thon, Best Buddies Crossfit Challenge, BBQ, Free Throw Contest, Kids Jump Zone, and more! $5 suggested donation.

Have an event coming up? Tell us about it! Email details to HCCoach@bestbuddies.org and we'll be happy to post them!

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Follow Up!

2009-04-15T07:52:00.000-07:00

As the fundraising superstar that you are, I'm sure you have drafted an amazing fundraising letter, telling your story as to why you are riding in the Audi Best Buddies Challenge. I'm sure you have also defined a lengthy, solid list of friends, family, colleagues, dentists, dog-walkers, etc. to reach out to. You've send your emails and letters and started recieving information. Great! What a fantastic start! Now, you've also gotten caught up in a big work project, spent weekends running endless errands, hosted a holiday meal for your family and friends, and haven't really thought about your fundraising since hitting send a while ago. Chances are, many of your contacts have forgotten your email too.

It's not that they don't want to donate, but with the hustle and bustle of springtime and life in general, emails and letters that are at once top of mind, often get pushed to the bottom of the pile. That's why it is always a good idea to follow up with your future donors. They will appreciate the reminder and you will see your fundraising jump.

About three to four weeks after sending out your first emails, remind yourself (via your Outlook calendar or Day Planner or Post-It on your fridge - whatever works) to check back in with your friends and family. This is another great chance to describe why you need their support and how appreciative you are that they are in your life. It's a very simple email or phonecall to make and will definitely help you meet and pass your fundraising commitment goal!

For more fundraising tips, look out for our monthly newsletters and tips and never hesitate to send your Rider Coach an email (hccoach@bestbuddies.org). Happy Fundraising!

Boston.com's Favorite New England Bike Rides

2009-04-10T09:41:00.001-07:00

Hey Hyannis Port riders - as spring is beginning to show itself and as the Audi Best Buddies Challenge is just about 7 weeks away, now is a great time to be getting out and riding! Training is so crucial to enjoying the event. Sure, you can survive it, but wouldn't it be nice to take in the beautiful scenery on the way to the Cape instead of stressing about your burning glutes and how you just can't seem to catch your breath?

Just in time for your weekend, Boston.com (The Boston Globe's trusty website) has pulled together a collection of its 15 favorite rides around New England. The Cape Cod Ride is a nice preview for the HP Challenge. Check these out and start peddling!

If you have a favorite training ride that didn't make Boston.com's list, TELL US! We are working on some top-secret projects (more details to follow soon) to link together our riders and their favorite routes and would love to get your feedback. So send them along to coach@bestbuddies.org. Happy cycling!

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Everyone Loves a Bake Sale

2009-04-08T08:16:00.000-07:00

Taking a tip from our elementary school days, we've found that a good, old fashioned bake sale is always a good fundraising tool. Come on, who doesn't love a delicious cupcake for a cause?! When planned and executed well, bake sales can be extremely successful.

Decide on the right location first - is it your work's cafeteria? outside of the grocery store on a beautifully sunny Saturday morning? at a town hall meeting? Once a location is selected, send out invitations to people you know might be near the bake sale, letting them know to stop by, indulge a little, and support an awesome organization.

Next comes the fun part - baking! Decide who is baking what...and stick to it! Having 8 dozen brownies does not a successful bake sale make. Insist on variety ( cookies, cupcakes, breads, brownies, etc. - I could keep going but my mouth is watering just thinking about all of these sweets). A little decoration never hurt either, people are drawn to the brightly colored icing and the sprinkles, so get creative! It is also good to add in some healthier treats, like fruit salad or apples dipped in peanut butter. Also, try to think of what people might enjoy with a cookie - milk, coffee, tea, hot cocoa, juice - these beverages are a nice and easy addition to your already fantastic bake sale.

Make sure that everything is wrapped cleanly - no one wants to buy the dessert that looks mangled and sloppy. Price appropriately. Post flyers around the area to draw more crowds. And voila!

For more tips, check out these great posts:

Now, to get you started, here's the recipe for a Best Buddies Challenge Office Favorite: World Peace Cookies. Originally a product of baker extraordinaire, Dorie Greenspan, we are confident that these should be served at all conflict resolution meeting there is...they will change your life (I really love them). So get baking and with each tablespoon of sugar, remember how amazing it is that you are supporting the Best Buddies mission. Thanks from all of us...and feel free to send some treats our way.

World Peace Cookies

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 stick plus 3 tablespoons (11 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2/3 cup (packed) light brown sugar
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon fleur de sel or 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
5 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped into chips, or a generous 3/4 cup store-bought mini chocolate chips

1. Sift the flour, cocoa and baking soda together.

2. Working with a stand mixer, preferably fitted with a paddle attachment, or with a hand mixer in a large bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until soft and creamy. Add both sugars, the salt and vanilla extract and beat for 2 minutes more.

3. Turn off the mixer. Pour in the dry ingredients, drape a kitchen towel over the stand mixer to protect yourself and your kitchen from flying flour and pulse the mixer at low speed about 5 times, a second or two each time. Take a peek — if there is still a lot of flour on the surface of the dough, pulse a couple of times more; if not, remove the towel. Continuing at low speed, mix for about 30 seconds more, just until the flour disappears into the dough — for the best texture, work the dough as little as possible once the flour is added, and don't be concerned if the dough looks a little crumbly. Toss in the chocolate pieces and mix only to incorporate.

4. Turn the dough out onto a work surface, gather it together and divide it in half. Working with one half at a time, shape the dough into logs that are 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least 3 hours. (The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. If you've frozen the dough, you needn't defrost it before baking — just slice the logs into cookies and bake the cookies 1 minute longer.)

Getting Ready to Bake:

5. Center a rack in the oven and preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats.

6. Using a sharp thin knife, slice the logs into rounds that are 1/2 inch thick. (The rounds are likely to crack as you're cutting them — don't be concerned, just squeeze the bits back onto each cookie.) Arrange the rounds on the baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between them.

7. Bake the cookies one sheet at a time for 12 minutes — they won't look done, nor will they be firm, but that's just the way they should be. Transfer the baking sheet to a cooling rack and let the cookies rest until they are only just warm, at which point you can serve them or let them reach room temperature.

Ride Coach Jeremiah Angel Recommends: Weekend Sherpa

2009-04-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area, chances are you've probably heard of Weekend Sherpa. Weekend Sherpa's free weekly e-newsletter provides great suggestions for outdoor activities with which to fill your weekend. Sent every Thursday, their e-newsletters arrive just in time to plan your weekend adventures. From Bay Area biking, hiking and other outdoor activities, their e-newsletter has something for everyone's interests. This week's issue of Weekend Sherpa suggests several great rides in the Bay Area, including one route that starts and finishes at the incredibly delicious Marin French Cheese Factory!

For more information about Weekend Sherpa and to sign up for their weekly e-newsletter visit http://www.weekendsherpa.com/

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Think Outside Your Circle When Forming an Email List

2009-04-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

So you've decided to jumpstart your fundraising efforts with an email campaign. Great! Before you can personalize each of your emails, you need to figure out who to email. Mom and Dad, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, grandparents, your 3 best friends, and a few colleagues...done, right!? Not if you really want to meet that fundraising goal. Remember, it is not your decision to make if someone doesn't want to donate, so what harm can a heartfelt email do? Here are a few people to think about that might not have crossed your mind yet.

Your babysitter, coffeeshop server, dry cleaner, landlord, mail carrier, lawyer, dentist, tutor, etc. These are the people you see everyday and may not have even thought to reach out to. You never know if an acquaintance has a particular tie to the Best Buddies mission, or if they are looking to donate to something. Asking can't hurt and you will probably be surprised at the response you get!

Your long lost hometown and college friends who you have (unfortunately) lost touch with. Oh, the good old days of your youth. Meals in dining halls, cramming for tests until the sun rises, and staying out at the local bars, dancing until your feet hurt...bring back some memories? Remember the people who you were with? When was the last time you spoke with them. This is a great time to give your old friends a quick update on your life, and possibly reconnect to relive some of those great times.

Members of any groups, teams or organizations that you are a part of. From your after-work softball team to your church to your book club, members of these groups are great people to email for donations. They know you in one realm of your life, and share that common intrest, and will probably enjoy learning something new and cool that you are a part of. They will love to support you and the cause you are riding for!

With any email that you write, be sure to spend the entra few minutes to add a personal touch. Throw in a fun memory or compliment how they do so much for the community. These small details (even a simple sentence!) can make a huge difference. Check out the Fundraising Handbook for sample letters/emails to help you get started! Happy emailing!

Don't have a fundraising handbook? No problem. Just email hccoach@bestbuddies.org and we'll get you one right away.

Hurry Up and Register!

2009-03-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

DON'T MISS OUT! - EARLY REGISTRATION RATE OF $1,250 EXPIRES TOMORROW!

The Alumni Rate, a special commitment of $1,250, is available for only one more day! The early rate will expire tomorrow, Tuesday, March 31, at midnight.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of an experience of a lifetime! The Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle. This year the five-star ride will take place on Saturday, September 12. The ride is filling up faster than ever, so go ahead and reserve your spot! REGISTER TODAY!

Plymouth Rock Studios Team Video for the ABBC

2009-03-26T07:32:00.000-07:00

Here's a great video from one of our ride teams, Plymouth Rock Studios! They describe who they are, why the ride and how they are preparing to make the 100 mile trek from Boston to Cape Cod in May's Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

Find more videos like this on Hollywood East TV

Videos like this one are great for showing potential donors what they are contributing to because they express the Best Buddies mission so clearly. Thanks for the great work Plymouth Rock Studios! And if you have made any videos about either challenge, or have any great photos, send them our way (hccoach@bestbuddies.com)

Check out more from Plymouth Rock Studio's Website: Hollywood East TV's The Studio.
If you can't see the video above, click here!

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Casual Friday Collection

2009-03-25T07:45:00.001-07:00

Once you've begun to fundraise and email responses start to slow down, it's time to get creative! A fun, easy way to rake in the donations at work would be to sponsor Casual Fridays. Speak with your boss first, and ask if you can organize a Casual Dress Friday where jeans are fair game...at the small price of a donation. We recommend you start off by asking people to donate $20 (aim high!) if they want to wear jeans to work. This way, they get to be more comfortable and feel extra good about contributing to your fundraising for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge.

Make sure you publicize your event well, particularly if your company already "celebrates" casual Fridays. Pass around and post flyers, containing the suggested donation amount, and where the money is going. Make sure to include the URL to your MY HQ page too! Send an office-wide email with the same information on Thursday as a reminder. Look to our website if you need any help with the language, or want a breakdown of how each donation will help a Best Buddies program.

When you show up to collect on Friday, be ready to answer questions about your fundraising and training to date (You did a 20 mile ride last weekend! You will surpass your fundraising goal with the donations from Casual Friday!). Bringing candy or homemade baked goods to give to each of your Levis-clad donors might be a nice "thank you" gesture.

We also recommend sending a big thank you email to your office for helping you get closer to your goal! If your Casual Friday is a success, maybe you do it every Friday for a whole month. It's fun and easy, and a great way to connect with your comfortable co-workers.

If you have tried this, or have any other fundraising stories, send them to HCcoach@bestbuddies.org! Happy Fundraising!

Endurance Training Clinic at PV Bicycle Center

2009-03-23T13:24:00.000-07:00

Debbie Varon, a Hearst Castle event alumni rider and Specialized employee, will be hosting an endurance training clinic at PV Bicycle Center in Palos Verdes on Sunday, March 29 starting at 5:00 PM. PV Bicycle Center is located at 4B Peninsula Center, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274.

In addition to Debbie's training tips, Best Buddies staff will be on hand to answer questions about our Hearst Castle event and raffle off some cool prizes! PV Bicycle Center is also offering a 15% discount on clothing and accessories for clinic attendees. For more information and to RSVP for this training clinic please email JeremiahAngel@bestbudddies.org.

PV Bicycle Center also hosts two weekly training rides departing from their store which can be used as great training for our Hearst Castle event. The shop's ride schedule is as followed:

SATURDAY SHOP RIDES: 7:00 - advanced ride, 30-40 miles; 8:00 - beginner's ride, 5-10 miles & intermediate ride, 20-25 miles

SUNDAY SHOP RIDE: 7:30 - advanced ride, 25-35 miles.

For more information about these group rides call PV Bicycle Center at 1.888.377.7441

Fundraising Tip of the Week: Host a Happy Hour

2009-03-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

With St. Patrick's Day just behind us, we've all had a chance to get to a bar and enjoy a libation or two. It's a great social environment and a great spot for some fundraising. Today's tip is to host a happy hour at your favorite local pub!

Past riders have gone about this differently. Some have worked with the management to see if the bar would donate 10 percent of the proceeds to the Audi Best Buddies Challenge between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Others have worked it out so that they could arrange for and take in the cover charge proceeds between those hours. It might also be good to see if the bar would donate food for you to give away or collect the proceeds from. Door prizes are always fun!

Once you have set up the best time and place for your happy hour, it might be a good idea to print off those business cards we've made for you and collect some additional materials and then set up a table at the event. Here you can explain what you are riding for, and easily rake in some more donations.

Getting people to the happy hour is easy too! Utilizing social networks, like Facebook, make it simple for people to spread the word about upcoming events. Either create an event and send it to all of your friends, send everyone a message about it, or send out a massive email. Make sure to tell people to bring a friend or two. It's that easy!

Hopefully this tip is helpful for you. For more hints and tricks, check back next Wednesday or send us an email at HCcoach@bestbuddies.org.

Join us at the Best Buddies California Festivals of Friendship

2009-03-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

We've been so fortunate to have your support and participation in past years, and because of your incredible fundraising efforts, Best Buddies is able to provide programs which help improve the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through one-to-one friendships and integrated employment opportunities. As an active supporter, we thought you might like to check out Best Buddies' mission in action:

March is Best Buddies Month! In honor of this, Best Buddies California is holding its annual Festivals of Friendship in Berkeley, Los Angeles, Inland Empire and San Diego. These events feature activity and vendor booths, celebrity guests, live entertainment, free food and beverages and a spirited one-mile friendship walk.

Join Our Group Ride! Join Hearst Castle Ride Coach, Jeremiah Angel, on a group ride to the Best Buddies Bay Area Festival of Friendship on March 14. Jeremiah will take you on a 1.5 hour easy-to-moderate paced ride through the beautiful Berkeley Hills to the Festival in time for the start of the celebration. This is sure to be a great day where you can combine training for the ride and experience the Best Buddies' mission first-hand!

WHAT: Audi Best Buddies Challenge group ride to the Best Buddies Bay Area Festival of Friendship led by Ride Coach, Jeremiah Angel

WHEN: Saturday, March 14. Ride will depart Sproul Plaza at 10:30 am sharp.

WHERE: University of California, Berkeley, Sproul Plaza, 2490 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA 94720

Please RSVP to JeremiahAngel@bestbuddies.org as soon as possible to confirm your attendance and receive more details about the group ride!

Join Best Buddies at the 2009 Amgen Tour of California

2009-02-13T13:10:00.000-08:00

For the third year in a row, Best Buddies is teaming up with the Amgen Tour of California. The 2009 Amgen Tour of California will take place February 14-22. The nine day stage race features world champion riders and world famous teams. Starting this Saturday in Sacramento, the course heads south through the redwoods, winds through scenic wine country and along the coast, for a grand finish in San Diego on Sunday, February 22.

Come out and stop by the Audi Best Buddies Challenge promotional tent located at the finish line at each day of the 2009 Amgen Tour of California! Our staff will be on hand to answer questions about the Hearst Castle event, in addition to great raffles and give-away items!

We look forward to seeing you on the route,

Jeremiah Angel
Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle

Versus footage of last year's "Buddy Up" program at the Amgen Tour of California:

New B-52's album to be released March 25

2008-03-18T12:22:00.000-07:00

We are really excited to have the B-52s playing at this year's Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port. This is a big year for the B-52s. Next Tuesday, March 25, they'll be releasing their first album, Funplex, in 15 years.

The New York Times had a great interview and look at the new album this past Sunday. Read it here.

Pre-order Funplex through Amazon.com

Buddies are the Stars at the Amgen Tour of California

2008-03-06T10:41:00.001-08:00

As Best Buddy Austin Thornburg left the stage at the start of stage two of the 2008 Amgen Tour of California, it was he, not George Hincapie—a Tour de France stage winner—who faced a sea of adoring fans seeking autographs and journalists after interviews. Austin was at the Amgen Tour as a part of Best Buddies Buddy Up program in which five of the top professional teams had each donated a stage to a Best Buddy.

The Slipstream/Chipotle, High Road Sports, Kelly Benefit Strategies/Medifast, CSC, Jelly Belly and Bissell professional cycling teams teamed up with Best Buddies Rachel Lofton of San Francisco, Michael Thorne of Monterey, Trevor Lucken of Sacramento, Austin Thornburg and Nick Douglas of Bakersfield and Amy Lewis, Travis Raefield and Breanna Barlow of Taft.

Each team had a Buddy join one of their riders at the start of each stage for the sign-in ceremony. It only took a few minutes into stage one?s ceremony—at which Rachel joined Sliptream/Chipolte's Christian Vandevelde, a two-time member of Lance Armstrong's Tour de France winning teams—for everyone watching to realize that Lofton was the star.

"Each day it was an incredible moment. These Buddies were the stars. They were ones being interviewed, signing autographs and getting cheers from fans," said Richard Fries, marketing director for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge. "This is what Best Buddies is about. We remind others—in schools, in jobs, in society—that an intellectually disabled person is special, is a star and is capable and deserving of anything and everything that you and I are."

After Austin cheered on Hincapie as he and his team, High Road, headed out for more than 100, twisty, hill miles through Wine Country, he headed to Sacramento for an exciting finish up Capitol Mall. He then joined Governor Arnold Schwarzenagger on stage to present the leader's jerseys for that day.

For stage three, Nick buddies up with KBS/Medifast rider, Nick Waite—a former National Champion. On stage four, Michael of Monterey joined CSC's German superstar Jens Voigt, and on stage six, Amy and Trevor will team up with Jelly Belly's Nick Reistad, while on stage seven Travis and Breanna will join Bissell's team leader, Ben Jaques Mayne.

The teams have also donated a spot in their team cars for each stage, so if you are going to be in the area for stage six and seven, drop by the Audi Best Buddies Challenge tent in the expo at the finish of each stage and register for the ride and for your chance to win a ride in the car. A special Tour discount on your fundraising commitment is also available for those who register at the event.

Watch Team Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital on the road to the Hearst Castle

2007-11-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port now a century!

2007-11-28T10:44:00.000-08:00

That's right, the 2008 Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port is a little bit longer and will now be 100 miles. After eight years of 90 miles from Boston to the Cape, riders will have to push those pedals a few more miles before they can enjoy clam, lobster and The B-52's.

Check out the route map

For those looking for a shorter ride, the 20-miler is still available. See you on May 17.

ABBC: HP - The B-52's to play

2007-10-24T17:00:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for a little "Love Shack" Hyannis Port?

That's right, the B-52's have agreed to perform at the 2008 Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port. The hit-makers behind "Love Shack", "Rock Lobster" and dozens of other chart toppers will be performing for participants in the ninth running of the event which will be held on Saturday, May 17 2008.

THANK YOU ALL!!!

2007-10-02T17:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Riders,

What a great ride! The fourth Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle proved to be the most successful fundraising event in the history of our organization. We can’t take credit for that--it’s you who made that possible.

You should be proud of your commitment to people with intellectual disabilities. Your hard work fundraising and training for the ride proved that you care passionately about Best Buddies and our mission. This event would not have been so successful without your contribution.

Based upon your recommendations last year, we worked hard to enhance and improve the ride overall in the key areas you recommended. For example, last year many riders suggested that we invite professional cyclists to participate in the ride and that we should look for a classic rock group to perform. As a result professional cyclists from teams, T-Mobile, CSC, Kona, Tibco and Jelly Belly participated this year along with Cheap Trick as our musical entertainment.

How did you feel about the professional cyclists participation or Cheap Trick? In an effort to continue to improve, please take a few minutes to fill out our anonymous SURVEY . The results generated from the surveys help us make improvements and enhance all aspects of our future rides. Once you've completed the survey you'll be sent a confirmation email containing directions to the picture gallery of this year's ride.

Whatever the distance you rode, and whatever the amount you raised, take heart in knowing you have made a difference in the lives of so many people with intellectual disabilities that Best Buddies serves. Thank you so much for your support of people with intellectual disabilities. We are incredibly grateful and look forward to seeing you next year!

Speaking of next year the 2008 ABBC: HC will be on September 6, the weekend after Labor Day. We know that it’s a long ways off, but if you had fun go ahead and REGISTER !

With respect and admiration,

Mark Lewis, Ride Director

Michael Collins, Ride Operations Director

Richard Fries, Marketing Director

Dylan Taylor, Regional Ride Director

Alan Sakell, Rider Financial Coordinator

CSC send David Zabriskie and Lars Michaelsen to the ABBC: HC; but the real stars are the Buddies

2007-08-24T14:09:00.001-07:00

David Zabriskie and Lars Michaelsen of CSC join the ABBC: HC, but the real stars are the Buddies

Now you'll have the chance to ride along with a few more pros as David Zabriskie and Lars Michaelsen of Team CSC are all set to ride in the 2007 Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle. Zabriskie, the only American to win a stage in all three Grand Tours (Giro d'Italia, Tour de France, Vuelta a Espana), is the reigning United States National Time Trial Champion and a past wearer of the yellow jersey in the Tour de France . The recently retired Michaelsen is a past stage winner of the Vuelta a Espana and twice placed fifth in Paris Roubaix .

The two CSC riders will join an all-star cast of cyclists at the 2007 ABBC: HC. T-Mobile's Belgian legend and Olympic medalist Axel Merckx, Olympic medalist Mari Holden, two-time National Champion Kimberly Baldwin, Kim Anderson and Aaron Olson, along with Jelly Belly pros Alex Candelario and Mike Jones and Kona's United States National Mountain Bike Champion, Ryan Trebon, will be riding.

Yet the real stars on the road to the Hearst Castle won't be the Tour de France veterans or the Olympic medalists, they'll be the 30 intellectually disabled Best Buddies program participants--the Buddies. Buddies like Michael Kelly, of Los Angeles, who will return to once again ride the full 100 miles with his Buddy, James Stankard of San Francisco.

Thanks to everyone's hard work fundraising, you've helped put smiles on the faces and friends on the minds of hundreds of thousands of people just like Michael who ordinarily might not have those opportunities. This year Best Buddies programs will impact more than 350,000 people with intellectual disabilities world wide, and it’s you we have to thank for that!

On behalf of Best Buddies International, we thank you for your fundraising efforts. Keep it up, and we will see you at the ride!

North California Training/ Group Ride - Saturday, August 25 - 9AM

2007-08-24T14:04:00.001-07:00

This Saturday we will be having another BB Training Ride. Ride distance will be approximately 40 miles, terrain will be hilly and pace steady.

We will be leaving the Fort Baker/ Bay Area Kid's Museum parking lot at 9AM.

Directions to lot:

BB Bay Area Training Ride - Saturday, August 18 - 9AM

2007-08-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

This Saturday we will be having another BB Training Ride. Ride distance will be approximately 30 miles, terrain will be hilly and pace steady.

We will be leaving the Fort Baker/ Bay Area Kid's Museum parking lot at 9AM.

Directions to lot:

Southern Califonia Cyclocross Ride and Clinic

2007-08-14T12:59:00.001-07:00

Southern California BB Training Rides

2007-08-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

15-mile ride route map

2007-08-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

Best Buddies Short Ride
Find more Bike Rides in Cambria, California

100-mile and 62-mile ride route maps

2007-08-14T12:16:00.000-07:00

Hearst Castle
Find more Bike Rides in Carmel, California

Discovery to disband; Brajkovic to T-Mobile; Hincapie too?

2007-08-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

You've probably heard the news--Team Discovery will disband at the end of the year. Tailwind Sports the owner/ manager of the team has given up on the search for a new sponsor and decided to pull out of the sport.

Read More

This leaves a market flooded with riders, staff and management. Riders without a team for 2007 include recent Tour de France winner Alberto Contrador, American superstar Levi Leipheimer and American National Champion George Hincapie.

2007 Tour de Georgia winner Janez Brajkovic has already landed himself onto T-Mobile, and it's rumored that Hincapie will be headed that way himself.

Where kit do you want to see Hincapie riding in next year? What about Leipheimer?

SoCal Training Ride Tomorrow - Wednesday, August 15

2007-08-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Join the Women's Cycling Challenge for women's specific training ROAD rides departing from InCycle – Pasadena every Wednesday evening from now on out and departing promptly at 6:00pm during daylight savings time.

Ride: Pasadena and surrounding areas. Ride varies each week and will cover different riding aspects as we train for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle or if you simply want to improve your cycling… PLEASE JOIN US!

When: Every Wednesday starting on 7/25 and will start promptly at 6:00pm for approximately 1.5 hours. ** Meet at InCycle Pasadena (Green Street Parking lot).

Where: All training rides will depart from InCycle Pasadena.

**Helmets required. Bring plenty of water, spare tube/tire kit for quick repairs.

Lots of fun events can be found at: http://www.womenscyclingchallenge.org/
Questions: Contact - Dorothy Wong - 626/797-8950

InCycle Pasadena
E. Colorado Blvd #1 Pasadena, Ca 91106
Cannondale Test Ride Station- Full Service Repair Shop
Ladies Only 10% Discount for all WCC Ride Participants!!!

Southern California Training Ride - Wednesday, August 8

2007-08-07T16:14:00.001-07:00

Join the Women's Cycling Challenge for women's specific training ROAD rides departing from InCycle – Pasadena every Wednesday evening beginning 7/25 and departing promptly at 6:00pm during daylight savings time.

Ride: Pasadena and surrounding areas. Ride varies each week and will cover different riding aspects as we train for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle or if you simply want to improve your cycling… PLEASE JOIN US!

When: Every Wednesday starting on 7/25 and will start promptly at 6:00pm for approximately 1.5 hours. ** Meet at InCycle Pasadena (Green Street Parking lot).

Where: All training rides will depart from InCycle Pasadena.**Helmets required. Bring plenty of water, spare tube/tire kit for quick repairs.

Lots of fun events can be found at: www.WomensCyclingChallenge.org

Questions: Contact - Dorothy Wong - 626/797-8950

InCycle Pasadena

E. Colorado Blvd #1Pasadena, Ca 91106

Cannondale Test Ride Station- Full Service Repair Shop

Ladies Only 10% Discount for all WCC Ride Participants!!!

Merckx retires on top

2007-08-07T16:10:00.000-07:00

Axel Merckx, who'll you'll soon have the chance to ride alongside down the Pacific Coast Highway, has officially retired Wednesday, on his 35th birthday. Merckx went out on top, winning his last race by out sprinting breakaway Johan Van Summeren (Predictor-Lotto) at a criterium in Lommel, Belgium on Monday.

RYAN TREBON JOINS THE ABBC: HC!!!

2007-07-31T14:24:00.000-07:00

Mountain bike and cyclocross star Ryan Trebon, who just captured the Short Track National Championship will join the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle on September 4. To join Ryan in making a difference visit http://www.bestbuddieschallenge.org/.

More information coming.

SoCal Training Ride this Wednesday and every Wednesday from here on out.

2007-07-31T14:16:00.000-07:00

Join the Women's Cycling Challenge for women's specific training ROAD rides departing from InCycle – Pasadena every Wednesday evening beginning 7/25 and departing promptly at 6:00pm during daylight savings time.

Ride: Pasadena and surrounding areas. Ride varies each week and will cover different riding aspects as we train for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle or if you simply want to improve your cycling… PLEASE JOIN US!

When: Every Wednesday starting on 7/25 and will start promptly at 6:00pm for approximately 1.5 hours. ** Meet at InCycle Pasadena (Green Street Parking lot).

Where: All training rides will depart from InCycle Pasadena.

**Helmets required. Bring plenty of water, spare tube/tire kit for quick repairs.

Lots of fun events can be found at: www.WomensCyclingChallenge.org
Questions: Contact - Dorothy Wong - 626/797-8950

InCycle Pasadena
E. Colorado Blvd #1
Pasadena, Ca 91106
Cannondale Test Ride Station- Full Service Repair Shop Ladies Only 10% Discount for all WCC Ride Participants!!!

Your thoughts on the Tour

2007-07-31T14:11:00.000-07:00

Did it seem like they were going to bust a different contender each day?

Was it the best Tour de France ever?

Who looked like a star of the future?

Favorite team?

Best stage?

Who was the star of this year's Tour de France?

Are you more likely, less likely, not at all likely, very likely or have no opinion toward obtaining your own homologous blood transfusion?

Let us know!

Riders - reserve your transportation today

2007-07-31T07:54:00.000-07:00

Please take a minute to fill out this form to reserve your transportation options. The following is the schedule of available options.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7* - Best Buddies is offering a shuttle for rider coming from Southern California. The shuttle will depart from the Hearst Beach parking area in San Simeon, located directly across Highway One from the Hearst Castle, (overnight, secure parking is provided) at 12:00 PM going directly to Carmel where riders will have an opportunity to register. This shuttle will then depart to Monterey making one stop at the Casa Munras and Travelodge Hotel (please visit our Lodging page for hotel contact information) all riders taking this shuttle should make plans to stay at one of the above hotels. We will also have a shuttle that picks these riders up at 4:45 AM on Saturday and brings them to the start line.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 - In addition to the traditional 9:00 PM, post party shuttle back to the 15 and 100-mile Start Lines, Best Buddies has added a 5:30 PM return shuttle* to both the 15 and 100-mile Start Lines. Please note that the 5:30 shuttle does NOT allow any time to attend the post-ride BBQ and concert.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 - Just as in the past Best Buddies will have a 1:00 PM shuttle back to the 15 and 100-mile Start Lines.

*Both the Friday Shuttle and Saturday's 5:30 PM shuttle have limited availability and will be given on a first come, first serve basis.

SoCal Training Ride - Saturday, July 28

2007-07-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

The SCNA Women's Cycling Challenge is holding a Training Ride and cycling clinic this Saturday, July 28.

The event, held in conjunction with Jax Bicycle Center and Best Buddies will be held at the Jax Bicycle Center in Long Beach at 3000 Bellflower Boulevard. It will feature a 8:00 am Ladies Ride (Beginner & Moderate Paced) followed by a 10:30am continental Breakfast & Tech Tips Clinic that will cover topics such as how to fix flats fast, bike check 101, the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle and women specific training tips from Carmichael Training Systems. Special guests include Paramount Racing Women’s Team. Afterward there will be a benefit drawing and silent auction.

Sponsors of the ride and clinic include Jax Bicycle Center, Best Buddies, ClifBar, Carmichael Training Systems, Detroit Coffee and Kool n' Fit Sport.

All levels of riders are encouraged to attend and helmets required. Bring a friend and be automatically entered into our grand prize drawing!

Hope to see you SoCal riders there!

Contact Dorothy for more information.

What a day

2007-07-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

Quite the Tuesday--Alexander Vinokourov and Lindsay Lohan were both busted earlier today.

Tour officials revealed this morning that the 31-year-old Kazakh's blood test, taken after his victory in stage 13's time trial, revealed signs of homologous blood transfusion. Vinokourov and his team, Astana, were promptly ejected from the Tour in yet another sad recent chapter in the cycling the world.

Read More

Los Angeles Police Department announced earlier this morning that Lindsay Lohan, and actress from movies such as "Mean Girls" and the upcoming "I Know Who Killed Me" was arrested early this morning and charged DUI and possession of drugs. She was released earlier today on $25,000 bail in yet another obvious chapter in the celebrity world.

Read More

ABBC: HC calendar

2007-07-19T13:47:00.001-07:00

Get on our , and keep up to date on training rides and other important dates for the 2007 ABBC: HC.

Merckx update, shoddy tactics by Astana

2007-07-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

In today's stage 11, Axel finished with the second group 3 minutes and 20 seconds down on stage winner Robbie Hunter as the peleton was split by echelons some 50 miles out from the line. He's now in 75th place, 58 minutes and 59 seconds behind yellow jersey Michael Rasmussen who comfortably finished in the front group.

The big loser today was Frenchman Christophe Moreau of AG2R. Moreau, who in June won the prestigious Dauphine Libere had been displaying some excellent form and was a clear favorite for the overall. It was Moreau who lit up the race in stage 8, repeatedly attacking the leaders on the final climb only to be chased down by Alejandro Valverde of Caisse Espagne and Cadel Evans of Predictor-Lotto.

The big victim of Moreau's relentless attacks on stage 8 was race favorite Alexander Vinikourov who was the victim of a crash earlier in the week that left him bruised and bandaged.

Earlier in today's stage Moreau tangled with one of his own AG2R teammates and was at the back of the field being attended to by the doctor's car when Astana, the Kazakhstan rider Vininkourov's team, lit up the front and split the field. Astana continued to drive the pace and were soon joined by the likes of Discovery. By the end of the stage Moreau, along with CSC co-leader Frank Schleck of Luxembourg, had lost over 3 minutes and he tumbled down the standings to 14th place, 6 minutes and 38 seconds back.

As fellow Kazkah Borat might say "Very nice.....NOT!!"

Read more

What do you think, were Astana's tatics fair? Do they need be fair? Let us know by Commenting here.

Update on T-Mobile Training Ride - Saturday, July 28

2007-07-18T11:33:00.000-07:00

Here are all the details for the T-Mobile get together/ training ride from Michael Edwards. Remember all are welcome.

NOTE: START TIME CHANGE
Remember this is not a race, just training. Ride at your own pace.

We’ll meet at the Orinda Bart Station (www.bart.org) around 8:30am for an 8:45 start time.

This route is about half the distance (49miles) and over half the climbing (3500+) of the Best Buddies 100m route. THIS IS NOT A FLAT RIDE.

Be sure to bring the following:
- Spare tube and/or patch kit
- Bike Pump
- Helmet
- Water
- Snacks i.e. Banana, Bar, Gels or whatever.

All are welcome.

Also, on Saturday August 4th, the Marin Cyclist is having their annual Marin Century Ride. If you’ve never done a large organized ride before, here’s a good on to start with http://www.sextonarts.com/marincentury/ . It has different routes for different experience levels.

Comment or Email DylanTaylor@BestBuddies.org for Route guide and more info.

Merckx and T-Mobile Update

2007-07-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

In the wake of team leader Michael Rogers loss and the inexperience of the talented youngster Linus Gerdemann, Axel has taken over as captain of the T-Mobile.

Read More

Axel finished stage 10 comfortably and now sits in 73rd place, 55' 39" back of yellow jersey Michael Rasmussen of the Rabobank team.

In other T-Mobile news is was announced this morning that German rider Patrick Sinkewitz falied an out of competition doping test. The test was taken June 8 during a T-Mobile training camp. Sinkewitz's A sample returned a raised testosterone level. He was immediately suspended indefinitely by T-Mobile. Sinkewitz was already out of the Tour having collided with a spectator following Sunday's stage 8.

While this is undoubtedly more bad news for T-Mobile, having lost captain Rogers to a crash while he was virtually leading the Tour, it's even worse for German cycling fans. The country's TV networks have suspended their coverage of the Tour, making good on a threat they'd voiced at the beginning of the race.

Read More

Merckx update

2007-07-16T13:54:00.001-07:00

Axel and the rest of the riders are enjoying a well needed rest after two tough stages in the Alps.

In yesterday's stage 8, T-Mobile lost their captain Aussie Micahel Rogers to a dislocated elbow that he suffered in a crash on a descent. At the time Rogers was looking strong in a chase group that included eventual stage winner Michael Rassmusen and was the virtuel maillot jaune.

After the crash Axel kept the yellow jeresey, Linus Gerdemann, in contention and in control of the maillot blanc (white jersey of the best overall rider under 25), pacing him as far up the climb as he good.

Currently Merckx is in 67th place at 33' 31" back and the young, outspoke anti-doping advocate Gerdemann is in 2nd at 43".

Allez Merckx! Allez Gerdemann! Allez T-Mobile!

Tour de Fat - this Saturday, July 21

2007-07-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

The San Francisco Bike Coalition is hosting the San Francisco stop of New Belgium Brewing Company's Tour de Fat this Saturday, July 21 at Speedway Meadows in Golden Gate Park.

The "Ballyhoo of Bikes and Beer" will feature a number of fun rides from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and old-style revival with performances by The Sprockettes, a minibike dance troupe from Portland; The Handsome Little Devils, a retro-vaudeville act; and the Mission's own Lord Loves a Working Man, a nine-piece Southern Soul and 60's R&B band.

Costumes and bike decorations are suggested.

Get out and ride!

All the relevant info

Training Ride this Saturday, July 21

2007-07-16T13:29:00.000-07:00

From Michael Edwards:

Grizzly Peak Cyclists Monthly Metric: Heart's Desire

Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Miller Creek Community Center for 9:15 departure; or meet at 10 at Nicasio for shorter version (45miles). Ride to Heart's Desire Beach, return through Olema and Samuel P Taylor Park.

Start Directions:
Take 101 to Lucas Valley exit, west on Lucas Valley Rd, and right onto Miller Creek Rd;
-or-
Continue on Lucas Valley Rd to Right on Nicasio Valley Rd to Nicasio for start of shorter version. Helmets required. Any questions please contact Ride Leader John Steinberg (510) 207-4951 or minimalist1@sbcglobal.net.

This route is about 65 miles some climbing.

Be sure to bring the following;
- Spare tube and/or patch kit
- Bike Pump
- Helmet
- Water
- Snacks i.e. Banana, Bar, Gels or whatever.
- Money

All are welcome.

Thanks,

Michael

Lodging Update

2007-07-16T13:22:00.000-07:00

The Silver Surf in San Simeon is sold out.

Friday Lodging

Saturday Lodging

Please let us know if you have any questions or need any assistance with anything.

Who will win the Tour?

2007-07-13T17:03:00.000-07:00

Who do you think will wear the yellow jersey into Paris? Let us know.

Exciting finish today with former World Champion Tom Boonen taking the finish and wresting the green jersey back from Erik Zabel. Axel Merckx , who will he riding in the ABBC: HC on September 8 is currently in 45th place overall, 1'14'' down from Fabian Cancellara of Team CSC.

Look for tomorrow's opening Alpine stage to shake things up. Go Axel!!

Training Ride Tomorrow

2007-07-13T16:58:00.000-07:00

Two Best Buddies rides tomorrow:

At 10AM from the Fort Baker/ Bay Area Kids Museum lot - led by Beth Ercolini of Team CA - the plan is for 30 flat to moderately hilly miles (Paradise Loop) with a 12 mph to 14 mph average.

At 11AM from the Forst Baker/ Bay Area Kids Museum lot - led by Dylan Taylor of BB - the plan is for a couple of hours of flat to moderately hilly riding with a steady pace. Late start so we can all watch the end of the Tour stage.

Email DylanTaylor@BestBuddies.org for more information.

More Training Rides

2007-07-12T08:49:00.000-07:00

Nancy Yu, of Team T-Mobile, invites everyone to a few Friday rides that she's running.

FRI JUL 13 5/TM/46 Temescal Loop
Meet at the Lake Temescal parking lot off Broadway in Oakland for a prompt 10 a.m. departure. We will ride thru Montclair, up BBR and Skyline. Descend Golf Links Rd into the Oakland Zoo. Lunch stop at the Bagel shop on MacArthur. Continue up Lake Chabot Rd into Castro Valley. Climb Redwood back to Skyline via Pinehurst. Descend Tunnel back to the starting point. Bring H2o, snacks and lunch or $ to buy. Questions: Nancy Yu at nancyyu7@hotmail.com or 510-697-7736.

FRI JUL 20 5/TM/38 Wildcat to S Park and Claremont
Meet at the Park & Ride lot on Castro Ranch Rd/SPDR in El Sobrante for a prompt 10 a.m. departure. We'll climb SPDR, Wildcat and S Park Dr to Grizzly Peak. Descend Tunnel Rd for lunch on Domingo St before climbing Claremont and Grizzly Peak back to Wildcat and SPDR. Questions: Nancy Yu at nancyyu7@hotmail.com or 510-697-7736.

FRI JUL 27 1.5/T/41 Point Richmond
Join me on this easy paced ride out to Pt Richmond for lunch at Little Louie's. Meet at the foot of the pedestrian bridge on Addison in Berkeley (near the Aquatic Park) for a prompt 10:00 a.m. departure. We'll ride out along Frontage Rd to the Emeryville Marina, down University and around Ceasar Chavez Park before looping back to hop on the Bay Trail out to Richmond Marina Bay. Bring H2O, snacks, lunch or $ to buy. Questions: Nancy Yu at nancyyu7 at hotmail dot com or (510) 697-7736.

Hope to see some of you guys out there.

Training Rides - Sunday, July 15

2007-07-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

Michael Edwards of Team T-Mobile sent in this info about some upcoming rides:

Best Buddies riders,

THIS SATURDAY, JULY 15 we’re meeting at the Miller Creek Fire Station around 9:00am for a 9:30am start time. This route is about 65 miles—flat with some very good climbs. It’s a chance to get in some distance along with some challenging climbs

Be sure to bring the following;
- Spare tube and/or patch kit
- Bike Pump
- Helmet
- Water
- Snacks i.e. Banana, Bar, Gels or whatever.
- Money

All are welcome.
Directions: Take 101 North to Lucas Valley Road, Left on Lucas Valley Rd to Miller Creek Rd and right on Miller Creek.

Also, on Saturday August 4th, the Marin Cyclist is having their annual Marin Century Ride. If you’ve never done a large organized ride before, here’s a good one to start with. It has different routes for different experience levels.

Here are a couple of other good organized tours (not races) for riders with different riding experience. They have good Sag Support and frequent rest stops.

The Tour de Max is Sunday, August 12, 2007. There are shorter distance options. A rider's account of 50+ miles of the Tour de Max 100k.

The Holstein 100 Bicycle Ride is Saturday, August 18, 2007 (3 weeks before the Best Buddies). We have signed up for the 100k route. There are shorter distance options available

Additionally, all of Team T-Mobile will be meeting Saturday July 28th. This will allow each of us to gauge ourselves a good month before the event. This is a 49 mile route with a 23 mile shorter option. All are welcome to join.

Michael

Let us know by commenting here or emailing DylanTaylor@BestBuddies.org if you’d like more information or a route map/ ride description.

VIVE LE TOUR!!

2007-07-10T19:33:00.000-07:00

Watch the Tour de France every morning live at the Velo Rouge Cafe. Velo Rouge is showing Verus coverage of every stage, live, starting when they open at 6:30 a.m. Drop by on your way to work or enjoy a leisurely weekend breakfast while watching all the action.

The excellent cafe is located at Arguello and McCallister right across from Golden Gate Park. Plenty of bike parking out front, even more great food inside (they serve Blue Bottle Coffee).

Vive Le Tour!!

New rider blog, Team Oxy raises $40K in one day!!

2007-07-10T18:19:00.000-07:00

Our sincerest apologies for being late in getting this up, but Bill Dykes, captain of TeamOxy, has an excellent blog.

In his words:

"This blog will keep you updated as I prepare for the various bike rides that support those in need. Next on the agenda as far as fundraising rides is the 2007 Audi Best Buddies Challenge-Hearst Castle ride from Carmel to Hearst Castle, California."

Head on over and check it out, great work Bill!

Speaking of great work by TeamOxy, the current number one fundraising team raised over $40,000 for Best Buddies with a great event in Bakersfield on June 23. The event, which featured a BBQ, silent and live auction was organized by TeamOxy member Alan White in conjunction with Taft College's Transition to Independent Living program was held at the home of Stan and Bonnie Ellis. Special thanks to everyone involved! And wait to go TeamOxy!!

Hotels updated

2007-07-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

The hotel information has been updated.

FRIDAY NIGHT
- Monterey Travelodge – Group Code: "BEST". When calling please ask for "Carol".

SATURDAY NIGHT
- The Best Western Cavalier has sold out.
- San Simeon Lodge – prices are now $85 - $95
- Orchid Inn – Sold out of Main Building rooms. Rooms available are at $159 + tax.
- Sands by the Sea – prices are now $69 - $79

Axel Merckx to the 2007 ABBC: HC!

2007-07-02T16:51:00.000-07:00

Axel Merckx to ride in the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle
T-Mobile teammates Aaron Olson, Mari Holden, Kimberly Baldwin and Kim Anderson to join

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Olympic medalist Axel Merckx, the son of legendary Eddy Merckx, will wrap up his season at the fourth Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle on September 8 where he’ll be joined by his T-Mobile teammates.

The 34-year-old Belgian is currently competing in his ninth Tour de France, and is the reigning Olympic Bronze medalist and winner of a stage in the 2000 Giro d’Italia. In 1998 he finished 10th in the Tour and in 2005 took a memorable, solo victory in stage five of the prestigious Dauphiné Libéré. His father, Eddy, is widely considered to be the greatest cyclist of all time, winning both the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia five times.

The Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle (ABBC: HC) is a five-star, charity cycling event chaired by California First Lady Maria Shriver that supports Best Buddies International, a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. All of the money raised by participants in the ABBC: HC goes directly to Best Buddies programs.

Beginning at the Chateau Julien Winery in Carmel, Calif., participants head 100, 62 or 15 miles down a stunning stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway to the Hearst Castle where a one-of-a-kind celebration awaits them. At the finish riders enjoy a complimentary hot shower, professional massage, and a gourmet lunch with an open bar at the beach below the Hearst Castle. Then, they head up to the Hearst Ranch for a gourmet BBQ that’s followed by a private concert by rock legends Cheap Trick.

Joining Merckx at the event will be his American teammate Aaron Olson. T Mobile will also send members of its world class women’s team, including Mari Holden, Kimberly Baldwin and Kim Anderson. Holden is a past Olympic silver medalist and long-time Best Buddies supporter. This will be her third year participating in the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle. Baldwin is a three-time U.S National Time Trial Champion and the talented Anderson is a three-time member of the U.S. World Championship team

For more information on the ABBC: HC or to join Merckx, Holden, their teammates and hundreds of others in making a difference visit www.BestBuddiesChallenge.org or call 800.718.3536.

About Best Buddies
Best Buddies ® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment.

Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant, international organization that has grown from one original chapter to more than 1,300 middle school, high school, and college campuses across the country and internationally. Best Buddies programs engage participants in each of the 50 United States. The organization has accredited international programs on six continents with additional country programs under active development. Best Buddies six formal programs – Best Buddies Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e -Buddies® and Jobs – will positively impact more than 350,000 individuals this year.

####

Have you booked your lodging yet?

2007-06-29T13:24:00.000-07:00

Best Buddies has secured Room Blocks at a number of Monterey/ Carmel and San Simeon/ Cambria area hotels. In order to secure the special Best Buddies rate, please make sure to ask for the Best Buddies Room Block.

A full list of Best Buddies hotels and rates are now listed online.

Friday, September 7 - Monterey/ Carmel

Saturday, September 8 - San Simeon/ Cambria

Please note the drop date of each hotel. If your room is not booked before this date, we cannot guarantee availability or pricing.

If you have any questions about hotels please contact Dylan Taylor, DylanTaylor@BestBuddies.org or 415.503.1776.

T-Mobile riders confirmed

2007-06-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to announce that ProTour rider and 2007 Giro d"Italia finisher Aaron Olson of the men's team along with Kimberly Baldwin and Olympic medal winner and long-time Best Buddies supporter Mari Holden of the women's team are thus far committed to riding in the 2007 ABBC: HC.

Check back for more info and more confirmed riders from T-Mobile and CSC.

This Just In: CSC riders to join the ABBC: HC

2007-06-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

CSC, the number one cycling team in the world is sending riders to the 2007 ABBC: HC.

Team CSC

Which CSC rider(s) would you like to see at the ABBC: HC? Let us know in the "Comments" section.

Breaking News: T-Mobile riders to the ABBC: HC

2007-06-18T13:44:00.000-07:00

In addition to the 30 odd member T-Mobile team who for the past few years have attended the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle, the T-Mobile Professional Cycling Team has committed at least four riders.

Stay tuned to find out which T-Mobile riders will be in attendance.

T-Mobile Professional Cycling Team

Who from T-Mobile would you like to see at the ride? Let us know in the "Comments".

Training ride this Saturday, June 16

2007-06-14T17:56:00.000-07:00

We will be riding this weekend, weather permitting.

More details.

ABBC: HC participant competing in the RAAM

2007-06-13T16:43:00.001-07:00

Joe Petersen (pictured above), a participant in the 2006 Volvo Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle with Team Oxy who blazed down the 100-mile course in under five hours, is no stranger to going fast.

The Bakersfield resident, an eight-time California State Time Trial Champion, is for the ninth time competing in the grueling Race Across America, the premier ultra-distance endurance bicycle race in the world. Beginning in Oceanside, participants have a simple objective - ride some 3000 miles across the country to a finish in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Last year saw the 49-year-old Petersen, and teammate Kevin McNulty, set a new record in the two-man team competition, completing 3,043 miles in 6 days 11 hours and 24 minutes for an average speed of 19.58 mph. This year, they return to the two-man competition hoping to top their own record.

Rumors that Petersen is using the RAAM merely as preparation for the 2007 ABBC: HC , could not be confirmed, but TeamOxy captain Bill Dykes says that Petersen will be there on September 8 and maybe even RAAM partner McNulty.

We wish you both the best and thank you for your support!

You can follow them with live updates on the RAAM homepage or daily results and reports at Cyclingnews.com.