Pamy Teja – 2010 Pacific Coast

1. Why did you go on the ride?
I went on the ride for personal reasons. I had already been involved in the charity sector and that was definitely a selling point for me but it was the personal physical challenge that made me register.

2. How has it attributed to your personal growth?
Riding to Break the Cycle has tremendously attributed to my personal growth. After the trip I truly believe that if someone is to put their mind to something they absolutely can achieve it. I wasn’t a biker before the trip and I ended the trip as one. We endured challenges that I never thought I’d be able overcome before the trip. It was very much about one’s mental drive and I’ve taken that experience and applied it to all parts of my life now.

3. Favourite host and most memorable meal?
Hands down my favourite host was Jim Terry in Florence! The night before we were in Newport surviving the rain so when we arrived to our accommodations in Florence with a big open area that was warm, big kitchen, rooms with coaches, board games, we were in heaven! To top it off we were prepared these beautiful meals by our host, followed by homemade dessert. The next morning we were awaken by the smell of gingerbread pancakes, eggs, juice, you name it!

4.  Most challenging day?
The most challenging day was one of my favourite days on the trip. The team had been training themselves for one of the steepest and longest hills on the trip, Leggett. I woke up a bit nervous that day but I had such an amazing group of people around me that I just decided to not be so nervous, have fun, and enjoy the challenge ahead of me. That’s exactly what all of us did. We all made it up the hill and it was a moment I’ll never forget. We then made it down the hill and took a long nap in the long grass, while the sun was setting in Westport. It was an amazing day.

5. Most interesting person you met?
We met a lot of people on our trip but I would have to say it was the team that made my trip so special. Each person came from a different background with different experiences and it was amazing to get to know everyone. Most of us still keep in touch and it’s true that this trip is about making lasting meaningful friendships.

6. Did the tour inspire you to get involve in social or environmental activism? How?
I was already involved before the tour but it gave me that extra push to pursue my dreams in the charity sector.

7. What is the number one encouraging thing you would tell someone interested in doing it?
I would tell them it’s a life changing experience. You will come out of the trip stronger, not only physically but mentally. Long last friends and memories you can keep with you forever!