Cyclists helping themselves -- and others

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Julie Weckerlein
  • Air Force Print News

Gloria Padilla joined because she had breast cancer surgery. As a survivor, she wants to help others afflicted with the deadly disease.

Master Sgt. B.L. Lawrence joined because he had trouble passing the Air Force’s bike test.

Both joined the Blue Suite Pacers bicycle riding team. They joined for their own reasons -- and also because of their passion for biking.

The team of about 30 Airmen and government workers get on their bikes and hit the streets and paths around here to enjoy the sport -- and raise money for various causes. The team has rookies and “hammers” -- the more experienced "speed demons. "

Ms. Padilla is a hammer. Five years ago, doctors diagnosed her with breast cancer. The 11th Wing human resource worker at Bolling Air Force Base, D.C., beat the disease.

“I’m a survivor, and I want to help other people living with [cancer],” she said. “The team lets me do that. But they also give me so much. They have helped me when I’ve fallen and they are always there for me.”

The team rides for money, too. Not long ago, the team raised more than $1,000 for Air Force Hurricane Katrina survivors by from pledges for every mile the rode. In the past, the group donated pledge money to the Red Cross and for diabetes and cancer research.

But the team offers more.

“People really connect more through their passions,” said Sergeant Lawrence, who works in the Air Force Senior Leader Management Office at the Pentagon. “Cycling is our passion and it gets even better when we are able to help others by doing what we love."

Ms. Padilla and Sergeant Lawrence proved that Oct. 22 when they flew to Texas to ride with famed cyclist Lance Armstrong at his “Ride for the Roses.” This event commemorates cancer survivor.

For Sergeant Lawrence, the trip to Texas was more than another cycling event. As his wife, Laurie, puts it, it was a return to his cycling roots.

“He actually started riding when we were stationed there (in Texas),” she said. “It was the [former Air Force] bike test that got him started. He had a hard time passing it, so that’s when he got on the bike. Things took off from there.”

While in Texas, the sergeant began riding in charity events. When the Lawrences moved to Washington, he began meeting other cyclists and decided to turn the hobby into a legitimate team open to others.

Hence, the Blue Suit Pacers.

Mrs. Lawrence said the Blue Suit Pacers is more than a team -- it’s family, which includes spouses and children. During rides, family members drive in a van behind the team. This helps pace and keeps riders on track. Some even ride along while others play “traffic cop” on the streets.

“The team really does so much good, and we [the families] wholeheartedly support what they do. We all get to know each other pretty well,” Mrs. Lawrence said. “People keep joining, and it just adds to the mix.”

The only requirement joining the team is an enthusiasm to ride, and a bicycle. Though the name implies Air Force, it is open to all. An Army medical student is among their ranks, as are a number of government civilians and retirees.

“People come from all over,” said Mrs. Lawrence. “From Annapolis, Md., to Chantilly, Va,, they all come together to ride.”

Ms. Padilla said joining the team one year ago was one of the best decisions she’s ever made.

“Since joining, I’ve had more energy and gusto,” she said. “It gave me a better approach (to life). Our motto is: ‘La vida es corta -- Pasea.’ That means ‘life is short -- ride.’”

Ms. Padilla said her teammates are “great people to ride with.” People who are always cheerful and supportive. “They are my wingmen.” “

For more information e-mail the team at: BlueSuitPacers@comcast.net