This summer has had many days where the temperatures have been in excess of 90 degrees with the “feels like” temperatures much higher.  With excessive heat situations, riding outdoors becomes extremely dangerous especially if you have not properly hydrated to prepare for riding in these conditions.  Here are some tips to keep you safe:

• Look ahead at the weather forecasts so that you can plan your weekly outdoor rides with proper hydration.

• When at all possible, move rides to early mornings to avoid the heat. 

• Plan to hydrate all day to prepare for riding in the evenings.  In this area of the country, the hottest part of the day is between 3 – 6pm.  Make sure you have hydrated all day prior with water and electrolytes to prepare for your ride.  A good rule of thumb is to drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water. 

• If you are planning for long rides (more than 2 hours outdoors) you must start a consistent hydration plan a couple of days before your ride.  You know you are hydrated when you wake up in the morning and your first bathroom run consists of clear to very light lemon yellow urine. 

• Hydration is NOT drinking alcohol, sodas, or coffee.  Hydration is water, coconut water and you can add some electrolyte powder. 

• If you are a salty sweater, you will need more electrolytes and sodium prior to being out in the heat.

• When the temps reach the triple digits of death, it's best to stay indoors.  Use the time to become one with your trainer.  It's not a replacement for being outdoors, but it is a safe alternative to keep your fitness in tact. 

If you find yourself unprepared for an outdoor ride and it's extremely hot, it's best not to do it than to land yourself in an emergency room or worse.

Backyard Boogie: It’s Boogie Time!

It’s time for our annual Backyard Boogie Weekend August 9th - 11th. As we kick off our yearly event, we would love your support as volunteers to make this weekend a continued success. We have many slots to fill to make our signature event the best one yet. Your energy and time will be worth it. Contact Michelle Nedd at michelle@giibike.org to sign up.

GII Race Team White & Pink Party Fundraiser

Come join us for a night of fun and celebration at the Country Club At Woodmore on August 17th! Get ready to dance the night away in your best white and pink attire. This event is all about good vibes, great music by DJ Battle, and even better company. Don't miss out on the chance to mingle and enjoy light food and drinks (cash bar). It's going to be a night to remember, so mark your calendars and get ready to party with the GII Race Team!  This event is not just for cyclists, please invite your family and friends so they can meet some of the folks you ride with!  Register via EventBrite:  GII Race Team White & Pink Party

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS MATTER

Welcome to GII’s “Your Contributions Matter.” In this section, we highlight the outstanding efforts and contributions made by a member of our cycling club. From volunteering initiatives, to creative projects, and of course to our rides. We celebrate the positive impacts our members are making. Join us in recognizing their dedication and commitment to making a difference.

Brian K. Mosley, AKA BK

“One of my co-workers decided he wanted to cycle,”  according to BK.  “I thought to myself, I am not paying that much money for a bike!  One day I was dropping my daughter off to her dance class in Bowie and decided to go to the bike shop in Crofton.  Next thing you know, I picked up a bike. The next day, I went down to Hains Point at 6 pm. It was 2013 and I rode 19 miles my very first time on the bike. I was also clipped in my very first ride. I practiced six times and said ’let’s go’ and I fell on my butt.  I started riding with Oxon Hill Bike & Trail Club my very first year.  They told me cycling was a solo sport and if no one shows up, just cycle on my own. That’s what I did.  I got hooked riding with Oxon Hill. I joined GII after I saw them on Meetup but it took me six months before I would ride with them. The very first group ride with GII, a guy named Barron was the leader. His chain popped and he said, BK I need you to lead this ride. I led the ride and I did not know one person. But as you know, I made it do what it does. Then, over the years I started to get into more community service with GII. I became a ride leader around 2016 and I have been a ride leader ever since. I love the fellowship and the camaraderie in this club. Also, I am the one that likes to keep everything light and everyone smiling on the rides. I am a good guy. I enjoy riding, I love the suffering of it. That’s about all I can say. Long live GII. I am also a member of the Club Rydaz of GII which is a group of cyclists, we are a family that ride with each other and have a good time.”