Ride History & Core Values
In August of 2003, one year after Ryan Giannini died at the age of 20 from complications of Gorhams Syndrome, also known as "Vanishing Bone Disease," two of his closest friends, Tim Burgess and Jon Piercey, were inspired to honor him in a way that challenged their spirits, physical strength and mental endurance. They created a reflection of Ryan's life in a bike ride that would celebrate and support his commitment to Chalfonte. The first annual Ryan Giannini Memorial Bike Tour consisted of 6 riders, one of whom is an above-the-knee amputee, equaling 11 legs pedaling 200 miles from Lansing to Elk Rapids, Michigan, where the Foundation's core, Chalfonte House, is located (please see the Foundation's mission).
Chalfonte House is a place of tradition and practical jokes, a place for gathering and for refuge, a place for undying friendships. For two weeks each summer, Chalfonte House is taken over by young people, where individuals bond in the commonality of their "disease."
Regardless of the route, the Chalfonte Foundation's Annual Ryan Giannini Memorial Bike Ride will include the founder's signature: the "11 legged." Please join us!
Core Values
In support of the Chalfonte Foundation's Mission, the Ryan Giannini 11-Legged Lake Tour idealizes the following core values.
The ride supports the health of its participants and the local community by:
- Utilizing primarily locally grown, preferably organically cultivated foods
- Supporting wholesome local businesses
- Accepting materials, supplies, or donations that come from socially conscious and responsible sources that do not support environmentally destructive practices
or sweat-shop labor