Conference noted::bicycle

946.0. "TransAmerica '89" by TPS::BGRAHAM () Thu Dec 22 1988 14:47

    TransAmerica Trek '89 is the American Lung Association's attempt
    raise 2 million for their cause. I'm going to do my best to help
    them out. If any of you would like more information on the ride
    itself, or if you can sponsor me, please read on...
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    Hello folks,

    As Bernie (note 190) and hundreds of others have done before me, I will be
participating in the Transamerican Trek '89. Although I've only recently sent
in my $150.00 registration fee I've known I would be riding for the ALA since
I witnessed the arrival of the Trekkers in Atlantic City in '88. After feeling
the emotion when they arrived, seeing the pride of accomplishment on their
faces, and hearing some of their tales, I knew this was something I had to do
for myself. 
   And so, though somewhat daunted by the negative reactions in the past, I
come to the matter of fund raising. I know this is a touchy subject. I know
many of you dislike the organizations which take part in the fund raising. 
I hope some of you do not. In the past there have been complaints/concerns 
that organizations are "using" cycling, or that they are concerned only with 
the money. Perhaps the ALA fits this  description, but I don't think so. 
I certainly don't feel as though I'm being used. On the contrary I feel 
grateful for the opportunity to ride across the country with all the required 
support. I have to provide my own equipment, fly myself to Seattle, pay any 
expenses I have enroute, and raise the money.In return the ALA provides 
medical support, support vans, equipment trucks, two squares a day, mechanics, 
parts at cost, detailed route information and a place to camp at the end of 
each day. I'm quite sure that without the ALA I would not be able to make this 
ride. 
   I honestly feel that this money is going for a good cause. And I think that
cycling as a whole is promoted rather well. What better way to promote both
the recreational and sporting aspects of cycling than 400 enthusiasts riding
from Seattle to Atlantic City? I'd be lying if I said I was riding for these
reasons alone. If I didn't think the trip would be the thrill of a lifetime
I probably wouldn't go. 
   If any of you are able and willing to pledge, or if you have any questions
at all about the trek, please feel free to contact me at DTN 297-7980 or 
send mail to TPS::BGRAHAM.

                   Thanks much,

                          Barry Graham