Let our Ride be the answer to your WHY this year

As we start a new year, I have been thinking about my goals for 2023 and how they link into?my "WHY," and it got me to thinking about our Hands Across the Water community?and some of the incredible journeys (and discoveries) I have witnessed over many years on the bike in Thailand.

For me, getting clear on “WHY” is one of the most important parts of goal setting.?While our goals can be the stepping stones to get us where we want to go, it’s the WHY?that sits behind them that makes me want to get out of bed every morning.?This is the piece that keeps me motivated and inches me closer to living a meaningful life.?

As you might have seen, our Ride to Provide 2023 recently finished?and after a long delay (over 2 years!), it was so rewarding to finally see those riders reach their goal. For many, the bike ride is part of their personal growth, the ride is their opportunity to do something for themselves, to set a goal, to push further towards their greater purpose.

Why do people willingly throw their hands up to ride 800km in Thailand in the heat??Because they are looking for something bigger than themselves, they are looking for change, they are looking for something that will test their limits and help them find the best version of themselves.?Sure, there is a motivation to make a difference by?supporting our kids in Thailand, but the thing that gets them out of bed each day to raise the funds, train the house down, and get to Thailand ready to ride, is their “WHY” that is bubbling below the surface.?

I know?many of my connections have never done a Hands ride before, so?this year I encourage you to look at your WHY?- and maybe now is the time for you to start setting some goals to contribute towards this greater purpose.

• Do you care deeply about social issues and want to make a meaningful community contribution??
• Are you looking to find the best version of you so that you can be more present with your children??
• Do you want to be part of a supportive community and feel a true sense of belonging??

Whatever your WHY may be, Ride to Provide can help you find greater meaning and purpose in your life, so instead of finding excuses to say no, let’s work together to find a reason to say YES!

In 2024, we will be riding to Hands Home Hug, following the?the incredibly biodiverse Mekong River for seven days before heading inland to Yasothon. It is a beautiful ride, made even more beautiful by the kids at Home Hug who will be waiting to greet you at the finish.?

When you sign up for a Hands ride, you become part of a supportive community.?Our rides are inclusive, meaning anyone and everyone is welcome to ride.?With the addition of e-bikes* to our tours, the ride has become achievable to many more in our growing community, which means we get to see more people participating in this life changing experience. Once you have registered, you will receive a?welcome pack?and?detailed rider journey?that will provide you with training information, as well as?fundraising resources?to prepare you every step of the way. Trust us when we say, you won’t be doing this alone.

Our commitment to these rides is to continue to make them the?unique experiences that build connections?and enable brighter futures for our Hands Across the Water kids, always with you, the rider in mind. We hope you will join us on the journey.

Your 800km journey starts with a beautiful sunrise over the Mekong as you find your place on the road and within the group traveling from Non Khai. Each day will bring new views of spectacular temples, quaint villages and towns, and friendly locals to wave you on your way towards Yasothon.?Our final ride into Baan Home Hug where you will meet the kids you have been riding for is an amazing way to finish your epic adventure. It is there that you will get to experience THE BEST party of the year!

"I have done five Hands rides and each one is a unique experience. It is the best way to start off the year. The ride gives me time to reflect, kindle old relationships and start new relationships. The fundraising is for the kids and providing the kids with a life of opportunity is very rewarding. However, the ride is for me and it is food for the soul. I would recommend everyone to do at least one Hands ride. You won't regret it and it might just change your life like it has for me and many others." - Ride to Provide 2023 Participant

If you have any questions about the ride, please reach out to us?and we would be happy to help.

I hope you will consider your WHY for 2023 and how Hands' Ride to Provide can contribute to your greater purpose.?

Sincerely,

Claire?Baines

CEO and 23 times Hands rider

Hands Group

*Please note that e-bikes will incur an additional fee on top of your registration.