Hi, I’m Grant, I should be your captain.

Not because I’m polite, gentle, measured or rentlessly optimistic. I’m sorely lacking in those traits.

But I got two things going for me:

First, I only have two years under my belt, so if you’re worried this ride is too much, I get it; I was there, I remember, and I’ve got your back. Even if you have 20 rallies under your belt, I’ll always be there, with my 20 years experience as a bike mechanic/shop owner, to answer any and all questions, from technical questions to Rally logistics. I’ll also be there if you just need a person to hang with; although the rally has a way of bringing you in, and making you feel welcome, it’s nice knowing someone is there.

The second reason I should be your captain is the other captain you get, Jordan; he is the polite, gentle, and measured one. Last year, I was surprised that he asked me last year to co-captain with him, I’m even more surprised by the friends we’ve become. Jordan represents the finest qualities of the rally. Me, I like bikes and swear words. Somehow, we make it all work together, and pretty well at that.

Honestly, all the captains are amazing people, and regardless of who you pick, you’ll be in good hands. I just want to be your captain, because the reward for doing so far outweighs the effort.

Call me selfish. Call me your captain!

Oh hi — it’s me, Jordan.

This year will be my 9th Friends for Life Bike Rally and my 5th year as a co-captain.

Last year’s experience sharing the captain role with Grant was so meaningful that we’ve decided to partner up again for 2026!

We make an unexpected but really effective team — not just in personality, but in geography. I’m in Toronto, Grant’s in Ottawa, and somehow the long-distance co-captain relationship works surprisingly well. And while most people assume we’re complete opposites, the universe clearly had other plans: turns out we share the same birthday and the same birth year…

just a couple of hours apart. Who knew?

More importantly, the Bike Rally is about raising the funds that PWA relies on to provide essential programs and support to people living with HIV/AIDS. The need is real, and every donation directly impacts someone’s life, dignity, and care.

We’d be honoured to have you join us — for the community, the purpose, the km’s, and of course, the fun long the way.

Here we come BR 2026!!

Hi I'm Tim! This year marks my 7th Bike Rally and the 4th time I've co-captained a team. I'm so looking forward to this year's ride and seeing all those dedicated rock stars from this year! The Bike Rally is a truly amazing experience that brings together amazing people for a wonderful cause.

I joined in 2020 to give back to the community, and as a physical challenge. That year and the next were affected by COVID so we didn't do the full ride (I call those my baby step years). In 2022, I finally got to take on the full 600 KM trip to Montreal, and I WAS HOOKED! I remember signing up for 2023 on Day 5 of the 2022 Rally because I couldn't imagine NOT doing it again.

Being a team captain is so rewarding. I love helping my teams have as magical an experience as we can. It's great to see them having so much fun, especially seeing 1st-year riders discover the camaraderie of this huge cycling family. 

Hi, I’m Anthony (he/him)! 2026 will be my tenth Bike Rally, and my fifth as a team co-captain. When I did my first Rally in 2017, I had no idea that I would still be riding almost a decade later. But here we are, and I couldn’t be more excited.

What first started as a challenge to myself, to see if I could do it, has turned into an important part of my life. Time and again I have seen the same thing happen to so many other Bike Rally folks. You get hooked - on the fun, on the challenge, on the community and friends you make, on the cause we support and the knowledge that we’re doing good work - and it becomes a part of who you are.

What I love about being a captain is having the opportunity to help shape the experience for others, especially first-time riders. I also love seeing other team members bring their own varied gifts and unique abilities to the team, whatever they are, because the Bike Rally is a welcoming place for everyone.

Hey — I’m Chris (he/him). This is year three riding and my first time as team captain.

I jumped into the Bike Rally for the mental and physical challenge and the chance to give back, but the last two rides turned out to be way more than training miles. I’ve seen firsthand how this fundraiser helps people, learned how much stigma still exists for people with HIV, and met amazing, compassionate folks along the way.

I’ve definitely made friends for life here, and I want our team to be welcoming, fun, and full of good vibes. Whether you’ve ridden before or it’s your first time, expect lots of laughs, caring encouragement, and a real sense of connection to the cause.

One of the things I’m most excited about this year is to be co-captain with my pal Zack, who’s caring and fun, with a great energy.  

When I’m not logging kilometres, you’ll find me outside — riding, camping, hiking, or lounging in a hammock in the park or at the beach.

Hello! My name is Zack (he/him), this is my third year riding with the Friends for Life Bike Rally, and my first year as a team captain.

The Bike Rally has been an indescribably positive and joyful experience for me. I love the physical and mental challenge, the inspiring community, the fun and laughs, the magic, and the cause; such an extraordinary and rewarding adventure! 

It's my goal as a team captain to nurture fun, positive and memorable experiences by fostering an environment grounded in belonging, inclusivity, and community. It's also important to me that you feel prepared to succeed with the training rides, fundraising, packing, and camping, through clear and supportive communication leading up to and during the Rally.

Whether you're a 1-day, 3-day or 6-day rider, together we'll pedal our bikes, raise heaps of money, laugh a ton, hopefully consume chocolate milk and sour gummy worms abundantly (my favourite Bike Rally treats), ultimately have an unforgettable time, and become friends for life! <3

Hey (future) riders! 

My name is Micheal (he/him) but cordially known as Verge, or Mike. Despite this being my third rally, I'll be popping my captaining cherry this year with my close friend Trevor, who I met during my first rally!

I joined the rally as something fun to do with friends over the summer, as a fitness goal, and a challenge for myself. Not only did I make a ton of friends, more importantly, I became aware of the incredible impact that the PWA/Trellis/ACCM have on the community. I gained perspective, awareness, and an immense respect for the rally and the work that these foundations do. As such, I will be participating as long as I'm physically able! I’m certain you will feel the same!

During my first two years, I had amazing captains who made me feel welcome and had an immeasurable influence on my rally success. This year, said captains decided to participate as riders, so I'm hoping to step into their shoes and lead a team myself (maybe with them on it)! I'm looking forward to working alongside old and new riders alike to have a fantastic rally and make a lasting impact within the community!

Come thru friends for life, let's break this hymen. 

Hey all!  I’m Trevor (he/him)! I cannot wait to embark on my 14th rally, and my 6th time being a co captain. 

I joined the rally on its 15th anniversary with Starbucks bringing coffee to the riders and crew but very quickly decided I needed to try to ride the next year.  Now entering the the 28th bike rally I’ve been a rider, motorcycle road support, food crew, steering committee and co-captain.  The rally has become a staple of my summer, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. 

I look forward to getting to know you  all this summer as we train and then make our way to Montreal.

Ride on!

Hello! I’m Dyvie (she/her), and I’m pretty excited to be entering my 4th year with the Friends for Life Bike Rally, and my first year as a team co-captain.

Admittedly, I didn’t think that riding my bike from Toronto to Montreal was very “me” prior to registering in 2023. I anticipated feeling out of place, but many riders and crew made me feel welcome from day one; their openness was disarming.

What I hope to provide as a leader is a sense of fun and belonging for new and seasoned Bike Rally community members alike. I am interested in everyone having a meaningful experience, so I will show up for and with you–in laughter, tears, and sweat.

With Dave by my side as co-captain/husband, I couldn’t be happier since we already make a great team. Together, we are ready to support, guide, and motivate our new team to train and to raise much-needed funds for PWA.

Let’s gooo, my people!

Hi, I’m Dave (he/him), and I am feeling very lucky to be participating in my 5th Rally this year. I have been an active member on the steering committee for the last three years with the recruitment and retention team, and I am so lucky to be captaining a team this year with my wife Dyvie. It will be such a fun experience guiding, sharing and enjoying your moments this year whether you're an experienced rally rider or a first year and have all feels and apprehensions I did on my first ride. We are all here to ensure a fun, safe, and inclusive week where we share in moments, break down stigma, and amplify voices that need to be heard. I can't wait to build on the friendships already made and all the new friends for life we will make in 2026.

I’m Logan (he/him), a returning rider who has decided to captain for my second time around!

Last year’s experience has changed my life. Not only was I able to set out and complete the ride, the training and friendships made along the way will stay with me forever.

We ride to make a change in other people’s lives, but at the end of the 6-days we also leave changed. I hope through captaining, I can help make sure the tradition and support of the PWA continues.

Hi! I’m Steve (he/him), and I’m excited to be stepping into the role of Team Captain for the first time this year.  This will be my third Friends for Life Bike Rally - it’s safe to say I’m hooked!

What started as a personal challenge has become a highlight of my year. The bike rally is an inspiring, wild, beautiful, life-changing thrill on two wheels—it pushes you mentally and physically, but more importantly, it gives you a sense of community, connection, and friendship that lasts long after we cross the finish line.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or this is your very first big ride, you are welcome here. We want you to have the best bike rally experience possible!  We plan to provide lots of laughs, great team socials, and encouraging support for your training and fundraising, in an inclusive environment.  We’ll all pedal together in support of PWA, Trellis, ACCM and Bruce House!

I’m thrilled to be teaming up  with Logan - an incredible cyclist and person!

We’re all in! Come ride with us and make Friends for Life! ♥️🚴

Hi, I’m Charles Evans (he, him, they).

Beekeeper, gardener, cyclist, hiker, writer, and husband to Luis. The thing I enjoy most in the world is witnessing that spark ignite behind the eyes when someone discovers something new. Sometimes this comes from teaching a child their multiplication tables, often it comes from helping someone unlock their fundraising potential. 

My sister, Deborah got me involved in road cycling. Her third AIDS LifeCycle (ALC) was my first. That was 2015. Ever since I’ve stayed involved cycling and fundraising for HIV prevention and support services. I like to say, “I came for the cause and stayed for the community.”

In 2024, I signed up for the F4LBR because I wanted to experience some bicycle tourism. What I found was the same love bubble I’d enjoyed on ALC. What I mean by that is the way in which we come together for one week and create the kind of world we wish to live in. It’s one of love, caring, patience, and acceptance. It’s a place of encouragement where no one is left behind. 

I truly believe that a bicycle can change a life. You make friends. Improve psychological health. Heck, science tells us that the telomeres of our DNA are elongated--essentially reversing many of the effects of aging.

It will be my third year on the Bike Rally in 2026. Time to start giving back! That’s why I’m joining my friend Michelle Clifford as a Team Co-Captain. Whether you’re a cyclist or crew, veteran or new, it would be honor help you with fundraising, setting up a tent, training, endurance diet ideas, ...

If you’re new to the Bike Rally, may you find the journey ahead transformative.

Hey everyone! I'm Michelle (she/her), and I’m super excited to be heading into my third year on the rally and my second as a Team Captain!

My favourite part of the F4LBR is the lasting friendships and incredible sense of community. In both years I've done the rally, everyone made me feel welcomed, supported, and included, and that experience is what inspires me as a captain. I want every rider—whether you’re brand new or on your tenth rally—to feel like an equal and valued part of our team, with plenty of support, encouragement, and laughs along the way.

As your captain, my goal is to make this rally unforgettable for all of us. I’ll support you with your fundraising, answer your questions, help in any way I can, and of course, plan some fun team get-togethers so we can connect and bond before rally week!

Looking forward to an amazing F4LBR 2026 together!

Hey everyone! I’m Josh, and I’m thrilled to be stepping back into the Friends for Life Bike Rally as Team Captain this year.

This will be my fifth ride, and what started as a challenge quickly became a huge part of my life. The rally has pushed me physically, inspired me emotionally, and connected me with a community I’m so proud to ride alongside. The people I’ve met and the moments we’ve shared are truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re a returning rider or gearing up for your very first rally, I want you to feel welcomed, supported, and excited for what’s ahead. We’re here to raise critical funds and awareness, but we’re also here to uplift each other, celebrate every milestone, and have a ton of fun along the way.

I can’t wait to ride with you all and make this year our best yet!

Hi! I’m Kyle and this is my fifth year riding to Montreal and third year being a team captain. If you’ve made it this far and are wondering if you should sign up, the answer is YES! I joined my first rally after meeting a cute guy at a backyard pride party in June who, within 15 minutes, easily convinced me to sign up.This experience totally changed my life and I’m so grateful that I gave myself the opportunity to try something new and say yes! That cute guy is now my boyfriend and I’m surrounded by the best friends I could ever imagine.

As a captain, I want to build a sense of community, where we can laugh about how much our legs hurt after day one and cry about how beautiful it is to connect with everyone. Josh is one of my best friends and I’m SO excited to be co-captains with him… AGAIN. We welcome everyone to join our team and will provide a supportive, inclusive, and FUN bike rally experience.

Hey ya’ll! Super excited to be participating in the bike rally for a 7th year - fourth year captaining. Whether you’re a new rider or an experienced one, we have a place for you here. Andrew and I represent the rally folks who are participating from outside the greater Toronto area. I am heading up the Montreal folks and am super excited to have a bit more for people participating from Quebec/Montreal. We will be doing some team socials (in Montreal and in Kingston) and training rides for both areas as well. 

I’ve participated as a rider, captain, crew member so I am happy to help answer any questions for the variety of roles that come up on bike rally. Looking forward to meeting everyone :)

Hi Everyone! This will be my fourth year participating as a cyclist in the FFLBR, and I've decided to take the plunge as co-captain with my friend Kevin to lead one of the teams that principally resides outside of the GTA. Our team typically spans from Belleville to Ottawa to Montreal, and everywhere in between; we even had members from much farther away. Belonging to a distributed team has its challenges, but the team is always composed of such awesome people that those challenges pale in comparison!

Having four years experience means that I have gained sufficient confidence to deal with the subtleties of the Rally, while still being in touch with how lost and overwhelmed I felt as a first time rider. I am jumping at the chance to welcome new members and help them navigate the lead-up to the ride, as well as cement the bonds that we form during the ride.

I'm a resident of Belleville and am no stranger to biking along the countryside; long distance riding has been a passion of mine, although I'm in it for its enjoyment and not necessarily for the Strava KOMs. To me this is a fantastic way to enjoy the company of people enjoying the same hobby. Kevin and I have already started to talk about rides that focus both in the western Quebec area and in the eastern Ontario area and cannot wait to get on the road with the new team. I look forward to riding with you!

2026 will be my 19th year as a rider and my eighth as a Team Captain. I first joined in 2008, thinking it would primarily be a physical endeavor. I had done bicycle touring with my family, and I wanted to see how fast I could ride with grown-ups. I went on all the training rides that first year, learning at last how to ride faster than my kids, but I also found a community that I just can’t quit. I keep coming back, year after year, to live a fantasy week in a supportive world that I would live in year-round if I could. Looking forward to being part of an encouraging, helpful and of course, fun team!

For the last 2 years, the Bike Rally has turned out to be truly a life-changing experience! At first, it was a chance to give back to such a deserving community close to my heart, while doing what I love - cycling - and enjoying the sights along the route of some of the most beautiful and historic places in our great country. Little did I know that on that journey I would also find a tightly-knit family of incredible people. Heading into my 3rd year with the Rally, I decided that the time has come to contribute more, and for the first time in the role of team captain. I'm thankful to be sharing the responsibility with Ken, an enthusiastic rider, long-time Rally participant and returning captain. Ken and I will do what we do to make our team's experience uplifting, safe, and super fun!