Why I Ride - Ted Pennell
"I
am most looking forward to joining like-minded people who
want to make a difference in the communities where they live and work."
Ted Pennell is new to the Cycle of Life Tour this year and is a member of "Breaking Wind", a team riding in support of Victoria Hospice.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I enjoy cycling however it’s been a number of years since I’ve done any cycling. My cycling skills would probably fall in to the intermediate category. Unfortunately, I sit at a desk most days and live a fairly sedentary lifestyle. However, I am wanting to change that and am working on developing a more active lifestyle and the Cycle of Life Tour is providing me with an opportunity to make some lifestyle changes with a short-term target to shoot towards.
What brings you to the Cycle of Life Tour? How did you hear about it?
I first heard about the Cycle of Life Tour last year from my friend Anil but unfortunately, the tour filled up in less than 24 hours before I could register so I wasn’t able to participate in the ride. As a result, I think I was probably one of the first riders to register for the tour this year. I love that the Cycle of Life Tour provides financial support and raises awareness for hospice care across Vancouver Island.
Why is it important to you to support hospice care? Do you have a personal connection to hospice?
Like so many other riders participating in this event, I have been deeply affected by the passing of a loved one. My dad passed away at the age of 59 due to cancer. That experience changed me in a number of ways. I have come to understand and accept that death is part of being human and that change is inevitable. I am learning to appreciate every single day and to appreciate the people in my life. I have developed an understanding of the inherent worth and dignity of every person, regardless of how different they are from me and from what I value. I chose to live my life from a position of compassion, empathy and kindness. I recognize that family and friends of a loved one also need to be supported during these difficult and often very confusing times and I strongly identify with Victoria Hospice Society’s value statement “Compassion underscores all our actions and decision-making. We demonstrate an empathic, non-judgmental manner. We believe in the power of tender acts of kindness.”
How are you preparing for the ride? What is the longest distance you have ridden before?
I was able to connect with a couple of friends that were willing to support me in joining the Cycle of Life Tour and we are regularly cycling together. I am riding at least twice a week, working on hills midweek and a big ride every weekend. I’ve also signed up for a spin class during May & June. The longest distance I’ve previously ridden is about 70 km.
What is your fundraising goal? What creative ideas do you have to meet that goal?
I initially set my fundraising goal for $1,000 however with encouragement from my friends and a desire to go bigger, I have increased my goal to $2,000. I am lucky to have a very broad network of people that have been supporting my efforts.
What are you looking forward to the most about the ride?
I am most looking forward to getting together with other like-minded people who want to make a difference in the communities where they live and work. I am also looking forward to supporting my cycling team in preparing for the event and in the actual ride.
