Finding Freedom, Friendship & Fun on the Road

As we gear up for R4//Campfire Circle, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on some of the incredible riders who make this journey so special. Meet Elise – a long-time rider, leadership committee member, and team captain of KindHuman. Since joining the R4//Campfire Circle community in 2022 Elise has been a passionate force on and off the road, bringing energy, thoughtfulness, and heart to everything she does.

Campfire Circle: Can you tell us about yourself and your connection to camp and R4?
Elise: “I first heard about Campfire Circle through Camp Robin Hood, I was a camper there and worked for many years, I met my now husband there, and my daughter has attended camp as well. I was always familiar with the camp atmosphere. I heard about R4//Campfire Circle through a client of mine at that time and from the first few rides with The Beach team I was sold.

CC: Why do you keep coming back to the ride?
E: “On the first year of the ride, I was just excited about the physical challenge of riding my bike to New York. But since then, it’s grown into so much more – it’s about the people I’ve met, the organization of the ride from Campfire Circle staff, and being able to raise funds for kids with cancer or serious illness. It’s like being in a big camp family. It’s such a neat feeling to be a part of a group that focuses on one common goal.”

CC: What advice would you give to new riders?
E: “Take it one day at a time – you tend to get stronger as the ride goes on. What’s great is that you get to focus just on riding. You will have way more opportunities for breaks, with a fully stocked car, provided lunch, and with lots of support.

CC: Can you talk about some of your fundraising strategies?
E: “At first, I was scared of asking for money, but I found that if people understood the cause, they recognize it’s incredible and want to support it.
My advice would be to consistently share stories and experiences and to not be afraid to ask. You will be surprised what people will give.”

CC: What is your favourite R4 memory on the road?
E: “On day four of the ride, I told my team, ‘I’ll meet you at lunch’ and went after the Wolf Pack team who was far ahead. I caught up to to their team lead, who asked, ‘Aren’t you waiting for your team?’ and I said, ‘Nope!’ I kept pushing. Afterward, I said to their team: “How do you do this five days in a row?!” I did it for 10K and that was enough for me! I felt so proud to have caught up and I was cheering for my team with pool noodles as they arrived at the lunch stop.”

CC: How do you train for this ride, as a group and individually?
E: “Last year, we planned rotations, training rides, and shared expectations in advance. Rotating pulls helped us conserve energy and made things safer, more smooth, and has us working as a team. Training together ahead also helps build connection and collaboration, which I love.”

CC: What are you most excited about this year?

E: “I love R4//Campfire Circle as it focuses on the WHY instead of the WHERE. I am also so excited for the new destination. I have never been to Quebec City, so I am looking forward to seeing a new place and riding new routes.”

Thank you Elise, for your passion, energy, and inspiration. We’re so lucky to have riders like you in our circle! To learn more about R4//Campfire Circle and how you can support our riders.