There is much community involvement involved in putting the Gran Fondo on each year. At our own school, a number of people participated. Some were volunteers, others rode, while some came for the entertainment. History teacher, Jim Rudesill, rode in the longest race, the Gran Fondo, which is 103 miles. When asked why he rode in the race, he responded by saying “it’s nice to able to combine something you love to do with a good cause.” An avid bike rider, Mr. Rudesill rode the Media Fondo, which is 65 miles, last year, and wanted to challenge himself to complete the full ride this year. The best part of the ride, according to him, was being able to do it with a close friend and be greeted by his family at the end.

Other school involvement included student volunteers. From Key Club, to students who just wanted to support what they saw as a good cause, a number of them turned out for the event. Sadie Carpenter and Kassidy Pierce volunteered together for the event, saying they were drawn to it because their parents participated and they also love biking themselves. The volunteer experience was great for them, because the riders have inspired them to ride in it themselves next year and they got to meet so many other people who are interested in the same thing they are-biking.

Overall, the Gran Fondo was a great experience for all. Other Montgomery staff who participated in the ride include Mr. Forrest, Ms. Natalini, Mr. Van Tuyl, and Mr. Rudesill. All of the people who participated from our school agree that they will participate next year, as either a rider or a volunteer, because it was so much fun this last year, and encourage others to join them.