Additional Information
FAQs
What is the route and what is it like?
After a touching opening ceremony on August 7th, 2008, in Madison, Wisconsin, ACT 6 will begin it’s four-day tour. The exact route is not released to riders until just before or on the day of the ride and is subject to change due to road construction or other issues that arise. The route will be fully planned and marked, will be on bicycle-friendly roads, and will have full safety support. The scenery in south central Wisconsin can’t be beat! The days will be approximately 75 miles each with at least one day being a Century Day (100 miles). The total mileage will be around 300 miles. It is Wisconsin and so there are some hills and we encourage and support training by providing training rides beginning in April.
Will the ride be supported?
Yes, absolutely! We provide breakfast, lunch and dinner – each with vegetarian options. Our presenting bicycle sponsor provides full bicycle technical support on the ride. Pit stops will be scheduled for every 15 miles or so to allow you to re-charge. Some of the stops will have nourishment provided and some will be located at a convenience store so you can purchase items you may need. Medical, chiro, and massage are available every day for your physical needs as well.
Where will we sleep?
ACT participants spend nights at public schools along the route. You have the choice of either sleeping in the gym or bringing a tent for camping on the grounds. Tents (no larger than 4-person) and gear (up to 75 lbs. total weight) will be transported from one location to the next for you. Participants will be able to shower in the school locker rooms.
How much of an athlete do I need to be?
ACT is a ride for people of all bicycling abilities, not just experienced bikers. It is a ride, not a race. You can take your time, enjoy yourself, and know that we will leave no one behind. We’ll have Crew that will take care of all your needs from meals to pit tops along the way, from medical support and technical support and from sleeping arrangements, to carrying your gear, or, if you need it, carrying you.
What is Crew?
Crew is the backbone of the ride. They provide support to the riders each day and night so that the ride can run smoothly. There are several types of Crew: food, camp services, security, gear and tent, medical, chiropractic, massage, route marking, pit stops, lunch, sweep, and traffic control (Moto).
How much in donations do I have to raise?
All riders raise a minimum of $1,200. Crew are not required to raise any minimum amount but are encouraged to fundraise to be eligible for fundraising incentives (hats, t-shirts, etc.). To help everyone raise this minimum (and hopefully exceed it), ACT will provide mentors, fundraising, advice, and house party speakers. With the ride being primarily volunteer-driven, we strive to return a maximum of funds to the direct services provided by AIDS Network. In years past, we have been able to give an average of 90% of the funds raised back to the agency. If you know anything about charity events, this is an unprecedented return.
As an incentive to raise more money for AIDS Network, we have some great prizes for our top three fundraisers which typically include an awesome road bike from our sponsor for the top fundraiser.
Who will benefit from money raised by ACT 6?
People living with HIV/AIDS and people at high risk of contracting HIV will directly benefit. Funds raised go to AIDS Network, the AIDS Service Organization for Southern Wisconsin. AIDS Network provides case management, legal representation and other services to more than 350 people affected by HIV and AIDS. In addition, AIDS Network provides prevention outreach and education to thousands of people at high risk.
