From September 1 - 5, 2022, 115 members of KRT/QRT flew/drove to Atlanta, Georgia to attend One Love, hosted by the Metro Atlanta Cycling Club (MACC) for our second year in a row. Dedicated to supporting youth cycling since the 80’s, MACC established One Love to financially support youth organizations such as the BRAG Dream Team, East Atlanta Kids Club, and the DLV Youth Cycling League. One Love proceeds also go to WeCycle Atlanta, Bearings Bike Shop and Urban Creek Conservation and Recreation Corps. With over 1800 cyclist in attendances this was an event we did not want to miss.
Photos by Curt Cooper
On Thursday evening, the team participated in the Tango Kickoff Ride, a 25-mile 1,275 ft ride through Fairburn and Tyrone, Geogia. The massive group broke into several paces which ended at the Cochran Mill Brewery. Friday morning, the team rode in the MACC OLC Pre-ride, a 25-mile 1,205 ft ride through Chattoahoochee Hills, GA. Riding alongside 1000 other riders, the members climbed the rolling hills of Georgia and made new friends. After the ride, members relaxed and socialized at the Fish Fry under our vendor table and tents provided by Trek & Philly Bike Expo. That evening, members headed to Atlanta proper to attend an art show, Cheers: Celebrating Authenticity Hosted by Shaheed Rucker & Amurri Lauren.
On ride day, in true KRT/QRT style the team rode from the hotel to the ride in their new released "Georgia Peach" jerseys. After a team photos, members broke off to ride in the 100-mile, 62-mile, 44-mile, and 27-mile rides. In pace lines and peletons, club members stuck together in their different rides. The team ended the day with bowling and partying at the SRAM after party.
“The reasons why were all here, in one spot, at the same time may differ depending on who you talk to but one thing that is constant is the communal spirit, the love, the sense of belonging, and the support that is present at One Love. It's the feelings you experience during/after the event that makes the lugging of the heavy bike cases, packing the kits, and traveling across the country all worthwhile.” Amira K.
On Sunday, members went out early Recovery ride along Route 29. The team closed out the weekend by hosting a pool party at in Fayetteville, Ga. With food from (Philly Creations), Dj, Basketball court and games to swag surfing in the rain, it was a night that we couldn’t forget.
“That jawn was crazy” - Curran J.
Members ended the night with an impromptu karaoke party in the hotel lobby. On Monday, everyone packed their bikes and bags and headed home. In the words of Yonnie T., the weekend is best summarized as: “One love, one family, one for the books!”
