Meet these Extraordinary Cyclists

Kennan bought his first bike in high school when everyone else wanted to drive cars. A classmate said Kennan is an example for her children to do what they love despite what others say. Kennan began bike commuting bicycle in the 1980's. Only thunderstorms or ice would keep him from riding. He rode for the sheer pleasure of it and to be gentle on the environment. He rode regularly with Bike Virginia. Kennan always encouraged others to commute by bike or just ride for fun. To encourage his wife, he bought a tandem. They rode 5,757 miles in 5 years. In his neighborhood, Kennan encouraged children and adults to ride. A neighbor spoke for many saying, "he would always ride his bicycle past my house back and forth to work.....whenever he had passed, I always felt that all was well," His sister-in-law vowed "to keep going through life pedaling for Kennan and for all his motivation that he has given us and our family."

he uses cycling to challenge himself, to learn, and to help people. Sami came to Arlington from Morocco, and speaks English, French and Arabic. Despite the fact that English is the language he began learning last, he is a great writer and tells great stories of his crashes, adventures, and observations. Sami joined Phoenix Bike shop a year ago, and has, since then, built and fixed bikes for his sister, uncle, dad, and friends. He currently rides a road bike off-road, and is fixing up a green bmx to keep learning tricks on. Whatever the weather, whatever the terrain, you never hear Sami complain. He always keeps riding, working every harder, trying new roads or tricks, and smiling.

Randy is an extraordinary cyclist who does extraordinary things for the cycling community--locally, regionally, nationally, & internationally. He is a long-time cyclist, bike-commuting to work for years before making a lifestyle decision to retire early and dedicate himself full-time to promoting cycling. He still bikes most everywhere. He chairs the Arlington Bicycle Advisory Committee, contributing to the county's Silver Status as a Bicycle-Friendly Community. He is active in neighborhood advisory work. For years, he managed the Washington Area Bicyclist Association website (and volunteered for WABA in countless other ways). He founded and manages the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, dedicated to improving the quality of helmets, disseminating information to the public, & making cycling safer for all. Finally, he is an active volunteer and supporter to Bikes for the World, which channels thousands of donated bicycles overseas, helping to build the cycling community internationally.

Lover of bicycles, long-time messenger and maker of bicycle-blenders, Lola is an inspiration because of her style and strength. You can spot her riding on DC's trails, to Roosevelt Island, and in the middle of Pennsylvannia Avenue. Lola has taught young ones at E.L. Hanes Public Charter School about safe city cycling, including a fieldtrip through Rock Creek Park. Her contributions to cycling in DC are numerous and she inspires young and old cyclists alike throughout.

Kenny Mack is not only an accomplished athlete, but is also an ambassador of goodwill for all cyclists in the DC area. His infectious enthusiasm and cheer shines like a 40 watt HiD headlight everywhere he goes. Kenny never misses an opportunity to advise and encourage other cyclists, young and old, from casual riders to area pros. If you're fast and lucky you can find him out on a group ride. Otherwise, he'll be at a local bike shop, teaching a group of kids to patch tubes or explaining to new riders everything from choosing comfortable socks to eating right. As a representative of cyclists in the greater DC area, Kenny Mack spreads more kindness and cheer than an entire diplomatic envoy of cyclists ever could.

Julie is a hometown hero at least thats what WETA and the thousands of children who's lives shes touches think. As cofounder and executive director of Trips for Kids Metro DC, Julie lives her motto of "teaching kids to overcome obstacles on the trail and in life" every day. Throughout the DC area children are healthier, more knowledgeable and asking "when can we ride again" thanks to Julies tireless dedication to Trips for Kids. Simply put without her thousands of DC kids never would of had the opportunity to enjoy nature from a bicycle seat. Ohhhh yeah in her spare time she also oversees a safe routes to school program at Mount Vernon Elementary School and started the Northern Virginia Youth Mountain Bike League.

He has decided to give up owning a car to reduce his carbon footprint. What makes him extraordinary is the fact he is a polio survival; in other words, he only uses the strength of his left leg to ride his bike. He uses a modified Burley trailer to carry groceries. He came with the idea of attaching a wheeled luggage to the rear rack of a folding bike with excellent results for traveling by bus, train or even by plane....pretty amazing!

John initiated a cycling activity at Oak Hill Youth Center, the juvenile detention center for DC youth. This has been documented by the Earth Conservation Corps, and shown on DC public access television. Many of the young men at Oak hill participated in a biathlon in the late spring on 2008, and they cycled against representatives of the DC Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the Mayor's office - Mayor Fenty was a competitor in the run portion! He is in the process of setting up a bike repair project at Oak Hill, and deserves acknowledgment for his good works. He is a recreational cyclist, and was kind enough to give me his much valued bike locker at the Odenton MARC station, so I could begin commuting by train and bike. He's an inspiring, talented guy, with a real heart for young people.

Jim is the DC Department of Transportation Bicycle Program Manager. He leads the DDOT Bicycle Advisory Council, which advises Mayor Fenty and other members of DC government on cycling issues. He was instrumental in the deployment of Smartbike DC, the nation's first bike-sharing service.

Dave is the brain trust behind the WashCycle blog (www.washcycle.com) which disseminates news, event info and lively discussion about DC Metro cycling and advocacy. His site is such a resource that even local paid advocates need to turn to it to stay informed.

she lives & breathes cycling. She is a long-distance all-weather bike commuter—32 miles RT between her Mount Vernon home & DC office. She incorporates errands into her commute & weekend rides. She is a regular participant in local rides (eg, 50 States, Swedish Blueberry). She vacations by bike; last year across upstate NY and, to celebrate a birthday milestone, the Danube River Valley; this year in a cycling mecca--Portland OR. She also serves the cycling community--as 4 of July bike valet for WABA, starting & planning routes monthly for a ride club, and transporting donated bikes for Bikes for the World. In response to news on someone cycling across the country to attend the Obama inauguration, she hosted a contingent of 9 cyclists, who attracted major media attention. She would have continued assisting BfW, but in 2008 made the ultimate sacrifice (as far as our car-oriented society is concerned); she donated her pick-up to benefit WABA & receive a lifetime ZipCar membership.

Since taking his post as Mayor, Adrian Fenty has been at the helm of of the District as it transforms into a world-class city for cycists. In 2001, the League of American bicylists confirmed this saying, "We were particularly impressed with the District of Columbia for the higher than average levels of bicycle use and recent improvements such as bike lane striping, bus and Metrorail access, the annual Bike DC ride and Bike to Work Day, and improved bicycle parking downtown. We were also happy to see the re-established bicycle advisory committee, funding for staff positions, and the development a long range bicycle plan." Most recently, the District launched the first bike-sharing program in the North America, SmartBike DC, with the goal of providing bicycle transportation throughout the District to anyone. As an avid cyclist himself, Mayor Fenty can only be pleased with the progress being made in the District and what the future holds for cyclists here.

Since his childhood days growing up in the Dominican Republic and NYC, Wally Fernandez has always had a passion for bikes. Wally dedicated himself to BMX when he moved to Maryland 4 years ago and has become a talented rider. He has recently begun regularly riding with pro's and received some sponsorship. Wally is also both an excellent self-taught mechanic and instructor at the Renaissance Youth Bike Shop in Riverdale, MD. Wally has grown alot as a leader and teacher, by inspiring other youth and spreading his incredible passion for bikes. The success of the youth program would never have been possible without the energy and dedication of this young rider. He recently graduated from high school and would like to open up his own bike shop in the future.

he is a crazy. He is a BMX rider and who tries crazy things just for kicks. He gapped to smith. Victor has the ugliest, color scheme for his bike in BMX history yet he gets mad props from his fellow riders. His style has not changed - everyone rides big bars but he still refuses to conform. Weight is not a problem either, entry level bikes are 24 pounds and his 32 pound BMX is built like a tank but looks light as a feather when he bunny hops. Even though he reps the Bay area, he is still a northern Virginia rider.

Tommy rides as much as possible every where every day. Among the bikes this teen has built his main ride is a specialized P. Grom. For other occasions Tommy uses a Schwin Tempo Single Speed and Sett Flite. Tommy founded his own bike community of about 15 friends. Of this group Tommy inspired friends Joaquin and Eddie to ride. The group rides every Saturday, polling to see who wants to ride where and then they go into DC, Maryland and NOVA. Tommy is inspired to ride by the weather and bike videos. Since 6th grade when his friend Hans brought him to join the bike program Tommy has known he wants to work with bikes after graduating and as he continues his studies in college. Tommy currently works in a bike shop.

...despite head concussions, shoulder separations and muggers she continues to use her bicycle as her main mode of transportation, in all seasons. A true believer, who walks the walk of green transportation, she rides to her office job in a dress and office shoes, to her garden work in work clothes and even out to party in party clothes. When Susan is not working with the Sierra Club for global greening, she is at work developing sustainable urban gardens in Washington D.C. In this work she seeks to involve and empower urban citizens of all ages. When not gainfully employed, Susan builds community in the city by combining garden, cooking and biking on summer picnics or on winter camp outs. Susan Ellsworth is indeed one of D.C.'s extraordinary cyclists because of her daily commitment to cycling.

When we first met and started riding around dc together, i discovered that Selina has this awesome scene in her head of that bike gang from the warriors(?). I always imagine her as a superhero riding around in mini-80s sports shorts, fending off evil and appreciating women of color running around on bikes like guerreras. She also once locked her bike up in Dupont Circle, left it there for 8 months and then started riding it again.

Past president of Mid-Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts (MORE); currently on the board I think. VA representative to IMBA. Is involved in TRIP FOR KIDS Makes FRENCH FRIES at DCCX Recommended by Joel Gawdz Check him out on google.

this guy bikes everywhere, with a large range. You can see this guy from one end of PG county to the other, and you can see him in DC, Virginia and Montgomery County. Though he has 12 bicycles, I normally see him riding his Cannondale T2000 touring bike. He has over 27,000 miles on it riding locally! Paul d’Eustachio Treasurer (of WABA) Management Consultant ESP Group Paul d'Eustachio, an alleged member of the Washington Cycling Lunatic Fringe, is the proud owner of at least 12 bicycles. So that he is able to support his cycling habit and provide a college education for his children he is also Treasurer and Controller of Antares Group Inc. and Acting Controller for New West Technologies, LLC. Both companies are government contractors specializing in engineering and economic analysis of renewable energy generation processes and high efficiency vehicle transportation solutions. Contact:: pauld(at)waba.org

Growing up in the UK, Owen became a serious cyclist when he took time to do some thinking on a solitary bike ride/camping trip across France. His adventures continued on a trip with buddies through Ireland. Now, Owen takes advantage of proximity to DC to get his workout in during his commute. As Deputy CFO at the Department of Energy, he loves wearing his favorite "Alternative Energy" ball cap featuring a bike. His current goals include getting his son to ride without training wheels!

Jimmy and Omar are both former youth mechanics from DC's sadly defunct Chain Reaction community bike shop. Together, they started a shop called Rollin' Cycles at 1320 14th St NW in DC. Both are absolutely top-notch mechanics, and their shop is of the highest, no-nonsense quality.

Mike Mintz is the tallest rider i know - which makes him have the tallest bike. It is extraordinarily tall.

Martin is extraordinary for many reasons, not the least of which is his passion for the open road and his bike. Beyond his daily commute to work (and everywhere else for that matter) Martin has cycled around Cuba and South America and all the way across the country. I thank Martin for helping me and countless others to discover the city by wheels and for showing me how to fix my first flat tire, and for sharing with me the secret of hempzles on the road. He's a mentor, a teacher and a complete addict. I mean who quits their job to go biking?

With friends and farmers, Liz helped lead a pedal-powered charge to Montreal, documenting small food-growing projects along the way. With flowers in her hat and a big smile for all, she brings style and energy to dc's cycling community.

Kenny Mack is a true fan of the sport. He is known by many of the local DC shops and his friendly smile is always welcome, but his Dallas Cowboys hat must come off. He loves to talk about bike racing and keeps up on the news, both international racing and local, such as the Greenbelt training race. While in the shop he loves to speak with clients and recommends his favorite bike, rides and component choices. As Kenny does not have a car he is always seen on his Specialized single speed, Specialized road bike, or Cannondale mountain bike riding around the streets of DC. Kenny is always happy to be on a bike and brightens everyone's day with his enthusiasm!

He’s a source of inspiration to many and spreads a passion for cycling like no other. Ken was an avid mountain biker in college, enjoying the nearby mountain trails in Blacksburg, VA. His passion became serious when he moved to the DC area and adopted cycling as a way of life. Since 2000, Ken has commuted year-round and his passion for cycling continues. He has learned the mechanics and has a unique love for vintage bikes. His ride and pride is a ‘72 Peugeot 3-sp, which has taken him on a 70-mi overnight trip. Ken never misses a chance to ride, so he runs errands (from groceries to Christmas tree shopping), and hauls donation bikes on his trailer. His dedication to environment and a healthy lifestyle motivates many, whom now follow his lead. One friend has lost 25+ lbs. and enjoys cycling regularly. Today, as a busy parent of two, he dedicates a portion of his time to repairing classic bikes, giving them a second chance and never passes up the opportunity to recruit a new cyclist.

Ken is truly an extraordinary cyclist. As his co-worker, I can attest to the fact that Ken bikes to work every day – in rain, snow, heat, humidity, dark, etc. He’s pictured here wearing what we fondly call the “Gorton’s Fisherman” outfit. His 10-mile daily roundtrip commute (from Seven Corners to Arlington’s Courthouse area) takes him along trails and city streets. He is amazingly inventive and loves to rescue and restore vintage bikes and gear; he is using vintage military bags for panniers. He restored an old bike trailer and uses it to haul larger items… he even used it to bring in a casserole for our holiday potluck lunch! He has helped countless novice bicyclists (including me!) get started. He is an enthusiastic bike advocate and encourages and inspires the rest of us every day. He also has long overnight trips (e.g., past White's Ferry), of 80 miles round trip, but it is his devotion to bicycling -- every day -- that is really extraordinary.

Jill owns Proteus Bicylces in College Park,Md., which is not only about business but is about building a responsible, nurturing community. Jill is Knkowledgable, passionate, generous and dedicated. She loves cycling and wants everyone to enjoy it as much as she does. Check out the Proteus website and you will immediately understand!

of their cool bikeshop and attitude at Oasis Bikes. . .

Representative Blumenauer has made bicycling a centerpiece of his steadfast advocacy for healthy lifestyles and liveable communities. He played a central role in making Portland among the most bicycle-friendly communities in the nation, and has continued his dedication to smart growth and transportation since his election to Congress in 1996. Representative Blumenauer was instrumental in the launching of the bipartisan Congressional Bike Caucus, and is a national leader of bicycle-friendly policies.

As a dedicated road biker he has ridden 136,000+ miles over the past 22 years. His love for riding has taken him all over the world riding in France, Spain, Ireland, Hawaii to name a few, and over 200 century challenges (100 miles) all over the US. In 7/08, Pigman had a terrible bike accident & collided with a truck. The next 5 months were spent in recovery; first in Shock Trauma, then rehab, then home with outpatient therapy. His love for cycling motivated his recovery. From his wheel chair he began pedaling away on a pedal exerciser. As he was learning to walk again, he began riding his bike on a trainer. In 4 1/2 months of recovery, Pigman was back riding outdoors. He continues to rebuild strength. His1st post-rehab century is booked for 5/09. He is thankful most of all to God, his wife, and the family and friends who have supported him throughout his difficult recovery. Nothing can stop a crazy bike loving, pig helmet cover wearing nut! Pigman is most definitely extraordinary!

Everyone has their inspiration and Geoff is mine. If I were a greyhound, you would say he is my rabbit. As fast on a bike (or on foot) as any man I know and pleasure to chase through the hills, rocks, roots, and 'over the logs' of Great Falls. From Moab to Charlottesville to Hood River and back to Great Falls this man grows stronger and younger year by year...kind of like that Benjamin Button movie that people are talking about. Here's to you Chief Bean. Looking forward to meeting Baby Bean later this year. He's riding on a sweet new 69'er. Will I ever catch this guy...

Eric has been an extraordinary advocate for cycling in DC as the Executive Director of WABA. During his tenure, WABA has contributed to making DC a more bike-friendly city, with support for more paths, better cyclist education, Bike to Work Days, smartbike programs, and bike valets at major DC events, including the recent Presidential inauguration. Everyone who rides the streets of DC (and the greater metro area) owes Eric a big thanks!

As an adult Elenor began riding over 15 years ago and quickly became a hybrid bike commuter. Elenor and her young family cycle to playgrounds, restaurants, the W & OD Trail and explore local communities. Grandma's holiday gift of a trailer bike facilitates riding more with the whole family. Elenor rides "because it is a greener option and it helps me get exercise." Doing presentations at schools about her environmental work students learn she has cycled as it is congruent with her work. She can link her cycling as contributing directly to the solution of creating cleaner air and positive environmental changes. Elenor cycles to many work meetings as she hopes inspires colleagues to cycle. From a 15 year perspective Elenor is proud of a growing group of women committed to commuting to work and to be a model of how to fit cycling into a busy life style.

Ed has been a cyclist all his life but became serious about cycling as a way of life when he moved to Arlington in 1995. At that time he did not have a car. Since then Ed continues to use his bike for basic transportation including commuting into Washington to work, for errands, to participate in community activities and meetings. Ed has inspired his four kids to ride bikes. The family has ridden and camped along the C & O Canal and has participated in a number of bike tours. On an average day Ed rides 15-50 miles and enjoys longer rides time permitting. Ed's love of biking lead him to participating in triathlons. Ed defines winning as finishing the race. Ed loves to ride because it makes him good; but his love of riding goes beyond feeling good. "A bicycle is a beautiful machine. There is not a more beautiful one in the world. I love the simple, human and the clean beauty it is to ride a bike."

Ed rides his bike ALL THE TIME. He is a climate change expert at the Department of State. He's a great diplomat, colleague, and community citizen. His bike commuting and his work, and his friendly and collaborative work style are in perfect harmony. Hopefully his example ripples out to the hoards of federal employees who would benefit from his example, as it has to me.

After the birth of her first child, DeeDee took up cyclocross racing with no prior experience. She quickly established herself as an elite racer and captured an age group national championship. After a sabbatical for the birth of her second child, she returned to racing and finished in the top ten in the Elite Women's field of the US National Championships in 2008. A role model for moms everywhere, as well as those who think it's too late to start riding seriously.

Dana is an extraordinary cyclist because she's smart, she's a mentor, bicycle evangelist - and, darn it, she's one tough cookie. A former messenger turned environmental lawyer, Dana somehow still finds time to be an active member of the WABA board. She's involved in all things biking - and I can attest, she's one of the most patient teachers/mentors/biking friends that anyone could ever wish for!

A lifelong cyclist Charlie began riding seriously in graduate school. For years Charlie commuted to work on his bike. Now he works from home and rides to work-related meetings, grocery shopping and recreationally with the family of 7. The household bike count is 16 including Charlie's Breezer commuter bike, a hybrid, a road bike and tripple seater for the 2 year old twins. Charlie enjoys the Conti's Bike Shop Tuesday night rides. Charlie comments that biking helps him keep in shape, is less stressful and often faster than driving. Charlie's son Patrick one is the inspired cyclist in the family. Arlingtonians have told Charlie that due to bike lanes he was responsible for creating they have tried them and are now riding more. "When I think about where I have to go my first thought is: 'How can i get there on my bike?' "

Brian falls into the excellent category of people who work on their bikes. You can catch Brian most days in downtown DC threading through traffic as a bicycle messenger. He's among the most humble people I've met, and a great DJ as well.

This excellent group produced www.outsideindc.com/bikes for DC's Apps for Democracy contest on behalf of their web development firm, Development Seed. Most of their shop commutes by bike every day. They are an endless source of enthusiasm about all things community and DC-related.

"Pinkey ", aka Santiago Gonzalez, has been part of the DC Bike Scene since day one and has encouraged and supported many young people to get involved with cycling as well as helping train many of the great mechanics in the DC area. From his Bicycles Brothers shop back in the day to his current Revolution Cycles. Jimmy of Chain Reaction fame puts it like this, "When you speak of Pinks, there is always good things to say. He is a positive force. A real good person!" Omar Estrada says, "Pinkey is a kind hearted guy who always has an open door."