Rhythm in Unity

We often hear sentiments that highlight the significance of community, such as, “We are stronger together,” and, “If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.” These statements offer a truth that is as present in cycling as it is in our larger world.

During a time when society can feel extremely divided, we must actively work to find ways to build community with others, find rhythm in unity and align around a common mission. In cycling, the peloton is one of the most powerful tools a rider can have: a group that generates energy by riding close together. The peloton provides a chance for cyclists to draft off the rider in front of them when they need to, or to take the lead when they have more energy. The peloton allows cyclists with varying strengths and abilities to move quickly and more efficiently, and to operate with greater momentum.

Growing up in Columbia, Maryland (the first planned city in the United States), community was a core component of my life. Columbia was a place that fostered significant engagement from both random and designed collisions of people, and my parents made sure that at an early age, my brother and I knew the difference between a community and a crowd. In a crowd, people push and shove and try to get ahead of others around them. In a community, people understand that none of us can move forward if we are not moving forward together.

I was diagnosed with cancer three times before the age of 20, and it was this deep foundation of community that saved my life. It allowed me to connect with other young adult survivors, focus on ways to better support communities of patients and families, and redirect my career to serve multiple organizations that have changed the landscape of cancer care and research. I have learned that sometimes, our greatest adversity brings us to the most powerful groups that we can be a part of.

Fifteen years ago, the power of the peloton sparked the idea for Pelotonia, which started in Columbus, Ohio, and is now the second-largest cycling event in the country. At Pelotonia, we combine the powerful principles of cycling and community to change the world. By bringing participants from all walks of life together to ride and fundraise with the goal of ending cancer, we’ve raised more than $250 million for innovative cancer research. We have achieved more than anyone dreamed possible simply because we set out to work together as a community.

During a time of such polarization in our world, each of us can reflect on the ways that we can become stronger together. It might be as a member of a sports team, a religious experience, a nonprofit service journey, or a cause that is deeply personal. Just like cycling in a peloton, building community with others from all walks of life enriches us deeply and allows us to achieve greater momentum, find rhythm in unity and make a positive impact on the world around us.