A Unique Journey

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A Unique Journey

It was a rainy day in Atlanta when my friend Lyn unexpectedly suggested, "We should go on a cycling trip together!" She emphasized that it shouldn't be as stressful as the trips I usually organize. And just like that, the idea of a more relaxed cycling adventure began to take shape in my mind.

I've been cycling for over ten years now. My first bike was a single-speed, handcrafted by my brother in 2011 while I was living in DC. Initially, it was just a simple mode of transportation. However, after a breakup in 2018, I turned to cycling as a way to seek community.

Finding Community Through Cycling

When I moved to Atlanta in 2015, my first ride along the Silver Comet Trail changed everything. I was with a few friends, borrowing gear and riding a $90 bike I found on Craigslist. That trip was both challenging and fun, giving me a fantastic sense of freedom as I soaked in the sights of the city and nature around me.

However, as a queer woman of color working in the nonprofit sector, owning a gravel bike and all the necessary gear can be quite expensive. That's why I started seeking out female cycling communities. During my online search, I discovered Radical Adventure Riders, an organization focused on creating inclusive spaces for the cycling community, and I immediately signed up.

Introducing Radical Adventure Riders ATL

From that point on, my passion for cycling became an integral part of my life. Just a year later, I founded Radical Adventure Riders ATL, a chapter of the organization that inspired me. Now, we host monthly rides, open workshops, and bike repair sessions, along with a tool library for the community to borrow from for free.

But what I want to achieve goes beyond just removing financial barriers. In a world where many queer and Black individuals are attacked simply for existing, I want RAR to create a welcoming space that provides support and safety for everyone. My goal is to build a judgment-free environment where people can learn, experiment, and feel supported.

The Cycling Trip in Croatia

Eventually, after much discussion, we decided to join Intrepid's Cycle Croatia trip, hoping it would be the perfect way to balance our two cycling styles. The trip offered enough cycling time while also allowing us to explore, indulge in delicious food, and relax.

New trips sometimes make me feel anxious, especially as I always look into the queer-friendliness of the destinations. Croatia has legal protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals, and I was pleased to encounter no issues throughout our journey. We could express our affection openly and felt safe everywhere.

Bonding with Friends

We were a group of eight from all over the U.S. and Canada, including a retired rural doctor, an immigration lawyer, and marketing professionals. Notably, our group had a diverse range of cycling experiences: one person rode an e-bike, while another was new to climbing hills. The support team and truck were always ready for anyone who wanted to take a break.

As one of the more experienced cyclists, I was excited to encourage the newbies. I kept reminding everyone that they could definitely push their limits. Especially when climbing the famous Hvar Island with an elevation of 560 meters over a 10 km route, I continually encouraged Lyn with, "You can totally do this!"

A Guided Journey

The best part was that Intrepid handled all the complex logistics of this trip, allowing us to relax and enjoy every moment. Our guide Davor taught us some basic Croatian phrases and introduced us to delicious local dishes during our breaks.

This trip not only challenged me but also provided an opportunity to rest and discover new experiences. After the journey, I felt comfortable and fulfilled, finally having a real vacation, not just hours of exhausting physical activity. This adventure deepened my love for cycling and filled me with gratitude for the chance to experience the wonders that Croatia has to offer.

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