Every cyclist on a Sunday group ride knows the familiar sounds of clicking gears and shoes snapping into pedals. But this is no ordinary ride.
“There always comes a project, and always we try to do what we can to be involved as much as possible with Armenia. That’s the goal we have,” said Gevrikyan.
In 2020, war between Armenia and Azerbaijan broke out, killing hundreds and brutally injuring thousands more. Many of the same cyclists Gevrikyan had supported for years lost limbs in the conflict and lost the ability to cycle.
So he shifted his focus from shipping bikes, tires and other cycling equipment to Armenia, and started fundraising for expensive adaptive cycling equipment.
“He’s been donating generously, sponsoring teams generously, because of his personality and his compassion,” said Greg Bakalyan, a charity ride organizer.
Together with partners Armenia Fund, Bob Smith Toyota and Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Velo Pasadena organized a special charity ride with one goal: to raise funds and sponsor bikes, gear and travel costs for two Paralympic cyclists to compete in the 2022 European Youth Summer Olympic Festival in Slovakia this July.
Dozens of cyclists showed up, riding through Pasadena, La Crescenta and the Angeles National Forest, pedaling for a purpose greater than themselves and raising over $10,000 in the process.
Disclaimer: This article was contributed and translated into English by Emil Lazarian. While we strive for quality, the views and accuracy of the content remain the responsibility of the contributor. Please verify all facts independently before reposting or citing.
Direct link to this article: https://www.armenianclub.com/2022/06/26/pasadena-bike-shop-owner-hosts-charity-ride-to-benefit-disabled-armenian-cyclists-overseas-by-phillip-palmer/
