Light Gives Heat is partnering with World Bicycle Relief to provide much needed transportation for the women in Uganda. The above photos were taken from a bicycle demo day in Uganda, where 85 women signed up to receive bikes. The hope of LGH and WBR is to share with them the power of the bicycle, it’s ability to provide independence and livelihood, as well as be used as an engine for economic and cultural empowerment. To help raise money Corey Collier (friend of LGH and WBR) rode in a 7 day race. Here are his final thoughts on his experience.

Completo!! Seven days, 363 miles, one goal, to share the love of bikes with others! For those of you that have followed the race and made a pledge, thank you. The Brazil Ride was a very, very challenging race to say the least. Words can't express how physically and mentally demanding this race has been. Though I've raced similar muilti-day stage races on my road bike over the years, this was by far one of the most difficult. I don't have the tip-top fitness that I once had, which made every day a test of strength and willpower. Some days were just pure survival between the distance, mechanicals, technical courses, and cultural barriers. Thankfully I survived and as an added bonus I found myself getting better and feeling stronger as the race went on.

Thank you for supporting our efforts to share bikes with our friends in Uganda and for making the Brazil Ride a success! Thank you for willing me forward throughout this difficult week. I feel blessed to be here (in one piece) and to have been given this amazing opportunity. We have established a lasting relationship with the promoters of the Brazil Ride, and together we aspire to share the love and power of the bicycle all around the world! So again, thank you for reading, contributing, and empowering the women of Uganda!

Corey

Thank you to everyone that pledged during the Brasil race. Corey has raised about $1,650. We still need $8,350 to be able to provide bicycles. If you would like to donate please visit our World Bicycle Relief project page.