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| Dear members of the Wayne State community, As some of you know, I’m an avid cyclist. One of the ways my wife Jacqueline and I have gotten to know Detroit and Michigan is by participating in cycling events around the state. I enjoy being outdoors, exercising, and the camaraderie and teamwork that are intrinsic in cycling. We also are passionate about ensuring that economically disadvantaged students have an opportunity to pursue a college degree. I’m pleased to announce that those interests will come together in a first-of-its-kind event on Saturday, August 22, 2015 when Wayne State hosts its inaugural cycling event, The Baroudeur, to raise scholarship dollars for students in financial need. The Baroudeur will be the first urban century ride (100 miles) in Detroit with a course traversing Belle Isle, Lakeshore Drive, Palmer Park and Gross Isle. Riders also can choose distances of 20, 55, and 62 (metric century) miles. It is a fun, non-competitive event; however, training is advised. Baroudeur means fighter or warrior in French and is a term used in cycling for riders not afraid to break away from the peloton and do things on their own, even if they might be an underdog. French writer Paul Fournel describes baroudeurs as “…adventurers, opportunists and chancers. They do not seek the love of their colleagues in the peloton, but strain at the leash, pushing against convention, experimenting and taking risks.” Many students, employees and alumni of Wayne State are baroudeurs at heart, and all of us are Warriors. Your registration fee of $36 includes refreshments along the route, a limited edition t-shirt, ride support and free parking. One dollar from each entry goes to the League of Michigan Bicyclists to promote bicycling and increase the safety of bicyclists. Following the ride, which begins and ends on campus, there will be a post-ride lunch and celebration. I encourage everyone to ride in, volunteer for, or support this event in some way. Please visit The Baroudeur to learn more. Spring is almost here, so let’s get geared up for a great time.
M. Roy Wilson
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