Meeting the monks and experiencing the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas and Abhayagiri monastery for the first time inspired me to continue and deepen my existing meditation practice, an inspiration that lasted for quite some time.

I first started cycling in high school as an older friend needed a cycling partner to train with for the MS 150. It’s been part of my blood ever since although more in the form of ditching my car and getting everywhere on bike. 

I encountered the BBP while supporting my partner to ride. After several years of volunteering, I combined volunteering with riding itself, adding a longer section every year. One of my favorite things about the BBP is how being part of the good will of community and the act of service can open the heart as much as a silent retreat. I don’t know if it’s the adrenaline or the beaming heart, but I definitely felt like I could do anything afterwards. 

After discovering road cycling during the pandemic, I felt ready to challenge myself in 2022 when I learned about the Pilgrimage through a friend of a volunteer. I was nervous going into that weekend, but I knew the two days would be epic after the first rest stop!

This community has pushed me to become a stronger rider but also to understand there is more to this sport than the km logged and the Strava kudos 😉 It is about supporting the rider next to you, embracing the uncertainty of life, and demonstrating compassion to others.

I am here to support future Pilgrimages and to grow this community.

Soo many great biking memories going back to my childhood. I started participating in Dharma Wheels Community Ride about 4 years ago. I love the camaraderie of the group!
  I am grateful to have participated in the Buddhist Bicycle Pilgrimage this year as a gear truck driver and as a rider. I look forward to being a part of the planning of our community rides and the Pilgrimage in 2024!

I’ve loved bicycling since I was a child. When I turn the pedals I’m transported back to the simple joy of that little boy. I came to Buddhism much later and find support in each: a seat, a saddle, a cushion, the wheel turns again. 

I encountered the BBP while serving at Sae Taw Win II Dhamma Center from 2007 to 2010. Subsequently, I volunteered as a route marker and SAG driver. I finally rode the pilgrimage in 2019 and loved it! When asked to join the board I could not say yes fast enough. I supported the pilgrimage from the outside and look to do my best now from the inside. See you on the road at the community rides and the big event!

Cycling is a form of meditation, with the added benefit of cardio and stress relief. Dennis Crean and the passing of my father in 2017 inspired me to purchase a road bike and ride in my first BBP. I’m very grateful for all of the support from the monastics, volunteers, riders, and the Board. Their efforts culminate in a special synergy, linking Buddhism with a memorable cycling experience, essentially a mobile kalyanamitta. I’m excited to be on the Board and helping to keep our Dharmawheels turning!

I have long sought out endorphin-enhancing activities like distance running and biking as a means toward stillness. I have participated five times in the pop-up sangha that is the Buddhist Bicycle Pilgrimage — three years as a rider and two years (I think!) as a route-marking and food prep volunteer. I joined the Board last year and made good on my threat to move us in the direction of zero waste. This entire ephemeral Dharmawheels/BBP community brings me great and lasting delight.