AV200 is here and we are so happy to not only be sponsors this year but to also have one of our own (Linda Lehsten) participating (again!) in this biking challenge to raise money to end HIV/AIDS. The AV200 is a 200 mile bike ride that historically has happened over the course of two days. Because of the current pandemic climate, this year takes a different spin on the challenge by having participants complete the course on their own over a 2-month period instead. This way they can create their own routes and ride at their own pace and convenience and ensure a safe social experience. Riders have from April 1st to May 31st to log 200 miles on their own and can share their progress through social media, which also enters them into weekly prize drawings.
The group behind the AV200 is Action Cycling Atlanta (ACA), which also hosts an annual Field Day event as another fundraiser for Atlanta-area charities.
ACA was formed in 2003 by a group of cyclists who participated in the 2002 European AIDS Vaccine ride and were inspired to create their own ride with lower costs and more accessibility. Beneficiaries of their cycling events include the Emory Vaccine Center as well as Atlanta-area AIDS service organization. The first rides took place from Decatur, GA to Athens, GA but as interest and participants grew, the route was updated to begin and end on Emory University campus with an overnight stay in Eatonton, GA. There have been 18 AV200 rides and the group has raised over $3.2 million for HIV/AIDS prevention with hopes to one day eradicate the disease.
This year, as mentioned, instead of one group ride there will be individual rides over the course of the two months. Our Keller Knapp Midtown office will be hosting a “ride-stop” from April 29 – May 4th and encourages riders to stop by for refreshments, a quick photo and some encouragement from the crowd!
Stay tuned for more information on our ride stop and check out https://actioncyclingatl.org/
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