I don’t know where he gets the energy, but in November our own Father Tony will participate in South Florida’s version of an AIDS ride. From the SMART Ride about page:
Like many things that change us and the world in some way, it starts with a dream, a vision, and an idea. The Southern Most AIDS/HIV RideTwenty-Thirteen is no different. It was born out of a dream to make a real and significant difference in the lives of those infected, affected and at risk for HIV/AIDS. The SMART Ride began as a dream to create a bicycle event where 100% of pledges raised could go back to the communities to be used for direct services. That was over eight years ago, and so far $4.2 million dollars have been raised. 100% has been given back to the communities we serve to assist with direct services for individuals infected or affected by HIV/AIDS.
From Tony’s rider page where you can sponsor him:
In high school, my idea of exercise was lip-synching Diana Ross. Now, as a 62 year-old gay adventure tour guide and travel writer, I want you to “stop, in the name of love” for a moment and consider supporting the crazy thing I have decided to do. On Friday November 15th, and Saturday November 16th I will join hundreds who will ride their bicycles from Miami to Key West 165-miles. Our journey will be one filled with hope, pride, and the dream of a future free of HIV/AIDS. This year will mark the 10th year of The SMART Ride journey.
So far Tony has corporate sponsorship from South Florida Gay News, where he is their travel writer, and from Key West’s Island House. And of course, he’ll have a JMG sticker on his helmet.
NOTE: Regretfully, I’ve had to turn down many requests to promote JMG reader participation in AIDS rides and similar events, but since this one is sort of “in-house” for me, I’m making an exception for Father Tony.