RIDE TURNS 5
This month marks another big milestone for RIDE CYCLE CLUB –celebrating 5 incredible years of sweat, community and growth. To celebrate, we connected with Ashley Ander, Co-Founder + Head of Brand here at RIDE. Read on as Ashley reflects on the community, what we’ve built, and what’s to come.
After 5 years of building community, what is it that sets RIDE apart from the rest?
In simple terms, it’s the people. The difference between RIDE and any other studio is the fact that these people – from staff to riders to instructors, all have something in common. It’s so difficult to describe what this is – maybe because it’s not actually a thing. It’s a feeling. It’s an energy. It’s a passion that is created when you offer the sensation that adrenaline junkies crave but in a controlled environment. RIDE is an experience that kind of shocks you at first but once you’re done, you turn to a complete stranger beside you, high-five and say “let’s fucking do that again!” You really need to do it, in order to understand it…. maybe it’s something in the air….or water….who knows 😉
How has the community strengthened over these last few years, adding more studios, expanding to new cities or neighbourhoods…what’s the glue that holds it together?
The glue comes from the experience and it all starts with one person. That person passes the energy from the experience onto another person and they then pass it onto to another and the cycle continues. It’s really just a giant game of good energy hot potato!
Can you name a few standout memories from the past 5 years that really highlight why RIDE is so special?
1. SEAWHEEZE in 2016 where we built a 20 ft long x 6 foot high stage in under 45 min (highly stressful at the time…but it paid off and looked INCREDIBLE)
2. RIDE’s 1st UNDRGRND in Gastown where we built up our first team of instructors. They trained under there for 3 months!
3.The Faith Chorale Gospel Choir at Yonge and Dundas square for NXNE. Dream come true.
4. Last but not least The Spice Girls RIDE at Ossington. I have never laughed so hard in my entire life.
There have been many amazing memories it’s hard to pick just a few.
As a business owner/brand manager/trainer, what are some key things you’ve learned along the way?
1. Do not settle for anything less than outstanding.
2. The people matter.
3. Keep things simple. Keep it straight forward and be honest.
4. Be prepared to learn something new everyday.
5. Fear complacency!
Is this just the beginning? Any hints as to what we can expect for the next 5 years?
There’s still lots more to come. Keep your eyes open for RIDE UNDRGRND popping up in new markets.
Any parting words to our community members?
Thank you from the bottom of my heart if you’ve ever been to RIDE or are a part of the RIDE COMMUNITY. I promise one day we’ll figure out the microphones 😉 To each and every rider, manager, instructor, front desk, ride support – I love you all, RIDE wouldn’t be what it is without each and every one of you.
Ashley Ander
