Hi Wheels Riders,
We didn’t really get a chance to tell you about the jersey design this year and how it came to be. The process always starts in the same place: getting to know the person we want to remember. I love my journey with moms, dads, sisters, and brothers, as well as everything I learned that didn’t make the jersey. It is a very intimate process, and I am honored to have shared this time with many of you.
Last fall, Claudia and I met and discussed some things you think of when you think of Will. Very early into our conversation, we discussed how stylish and put-together Will was, always setting the trend or quickly adapting. He loved looking good, and we knew we wanted a sleek and dapper jersey. We want to honor the elements that “Mister Will” would be proud of, so we highlighted the mission of his namesake, The WillStrong Cancer Foundation. The “never give up” ribbon that adorns our left sleeve was drawn by Will’s cousin. It is a mantra many of us use and repeat with each pedal stroke. Will started raising money while in the hospital, for cancer research, selling his NGU shirts and other items. The cuff is a Greek ornament, tipping our hats to his heritage and ancestry, which ties in with the Maniatis Spartan medallion in the center of our back. An Emblem from The WillStrong Cancer Foundation as well because while we memorialize Will, we are all in this ride to raise money and change the lives of future kids diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders. It was essential to Claudia that it wasn’t ONLY about Will but the cause.
Lastly, and not so subtly, the snakeskin. During hospice, activities are suggested to help a family with what is to come. To allow a terminal patient to process their mortality and grieve for their loss. One of the things Will agreed to do was an exercise discussing what he would be reincarnated as. Will laughed off some options, like a butterfly or a similarly cheerful and prevalent creature, and was drawn to the rattlesnake. With the strength of a snake, a creature that seems to fight back and survive, we wanted to incorporate this memory. We also learned that the snake figure was associated with Asclepios, the Ancient Greek God of medicine, and it was a done deal.
I hope you love this 2024 design as much as I do! Thank you, Claudia, for taking me along the ride!
All riders are required to raise $500 ($125 for kids) and get a free Wheels T-shirt and jersey of their choice. We are offering short sleeve, long sleeve and racerback jerseys. all are full zip front and pockets in the back and lightweight cycling fabric. (Note: Ordering gear from the Courage Classic is separate from our team kits!) The shop closes April 29th, please order today!
Riders raising $1,000 or more are eligible for bibs or shorts; please add these to your order! These are high-quality and retail for well over $100.
For the serious cyclists who prefer more of a race-cut, professional fit jersey/bibs the option to upgrade to the Equinox jersey and QX5 bibs will be available at a discounted rate. (Riders will have to buy these items). The specs for these items are linked in the name. Order Here: https://via.primalcustom.com/collections/ts-6481
Thanks,
Amber
