PEAKS to Conga fundraiser ride attracts cyclists of all ages, walks of life
The 66-mile PEAKS (People Everywhere Are Kind and Sharing) to Conga bicycle ride annually attracts participants from across the region. Young and old, seasoned riders and first timers, they are united by a desire to do what they can to kick cancer to the curb.
First-time rider Cinthia Stanzione expressed her gratitude for being welcomed into such a noble cause.
“I have only recently gotten bitten by the cycling bug, but instantly was hooked,” she said. “I saw this ride as an opportunity to pay it forward along with challenging myself to overcome self-limiting beliefs about how strong I can be.
“I have been blessed in life to say, I do not know anyone directly, on a deep personal level, that has been affected by cancer. However, I have had a child who recently had to go to Denver for a medical condition, and it was through the help of another charity organization, the Shriners, that financially we were able to make that trip happen for him.
“This is my way of giving back to my community and give just a little bit back to those who live with having to wake up each day and fight that fight against cancer. Beyond doing this ride for the sake of helping those who may be in need.”
Stanzione, however, isn’t alone.
Local triathlete Wendy Henderson seems to find herself at the ride every year.
“I started out doing races in Red Lodge as well as triathlons anywhere I could,” she said. “I know it’s not a race, just a ride, but I still wanted to do it. I thought it would be scenic and beautiful, and now I know it is.
“The ride is absolutely gorgeous, unless the weather is working against you, then it’s less gorgeous. I’ve had antelope running past me as I ride from Cody, and I’ve seen the wild horses as I pass the McCullough Peaks.
“I normally practice spinning all winter long, and then I cram two weeks before the ride … because I am a procrastinator. The biggest struggle is making sure your rear end is ready; it’s a lot of miles on a bicycle seat if you aren’t used to it,” said Henderson.
While the grueling journey is rewarding in many ways, the physical toll shouldn’t be overlooked. Forecasts call for a near 90-degree day with 32% humidity. Exhaustion and dehydration are serious ailments not to be ignored. How the riders prepare their bodies for the test often determines the outcome of their journey.
“The first 50 miles are fun, with the wind its downhill and cooler,” said Jeff Petty, a frequent rider in his own right. “From Greybull to Shell, it starts to warm up and more of the ride is up-hill. I’ve been riding since it started 13 years ago and I like to keep challenging myself. My company is a sponsor and I appreciate helping people for such a worthy cause. I have to stay active throughout the whole year; I ski in the winter, hike and backpack in the summer and fall, and I make sure to ride year-round.”
Reaching all the way to Washington state, the ride’s purpose is one that resonates with many people. Originally from the Greybull-Basin area, Arlan Howe makes the trip every year to help raise money for all of those affected by cancer.
“I’ve liked riding bikes for a long time (and) it was Laurie [Stoelk] that got me into the ride. My wife and I really like the idea behind the ride. It makes us feel good knowing the money is going directly to people in the area to help them with the battles they’re dealing with. Better treatment is no good if people can’t afford to get to the hospital in the first place. It’s also a good excuse to come out, see my friends and family and do something I have loved doing for 13 years now,” said Howe.
For 13 years, PEAKS to Conga has dedicated its time and donations towards helping locals suffering from cancer. Starting Saturday, June 22, 2024 bicyclists will take off from Cody and make their way to Shell. Following the completion of their journey, a “Shellebration” will be thrown as another opportunity for the community to donate to aid patients in need.