Charles River Wheelers (CRW): Building Community Through Cycling
12/20/24 • 46 min
Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.
In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we learn about one of largest cycling clubs in the Boston area: the Charles River Wheelmen (CRW). My guest today is Randolph Williams, the President of CRW, an accomplished endurance athlete, and a passionate advocate for inclusivity in cycling.
Randolph shares how growing up in a family steeped in social activism shaped his journey, culminating in his impactful essay, Biking While Black. This powerful piece not only highlighted inequalities in the sport but also inspired tangible changes, such as the Wheels of Change Strava Art project.
We’ll uncover the rich history and mission of CRW, founded over 50 years ago by Dr. Ralph Galen, and explore what makes the club such a cornerstone of the Boston cycling scene. From their inclusive approach and legendary rides to their commitment to promoting camaraderie and belonging, CRW truly embodies the joy of shared cycling adventures.
Join us as Randolph talks about his epic solo rides—like Boston to Montreal—as well as how he’s helping shape the future of CRW. We’ll also discuss CRW’s structure, favorite routes, signature events like the Cranberry Century, and the club’s role in advocating for better cycling infrastructure in New England.
Whether you’re a casual cyclist looking for a welcoming community or a seasoned rider chasing epic routes, this club and this episode has something for everyone. Don’t miss Randolph’s inspiring stories and insights about the power of cycling to build community and create lasting change.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram @newenglandendurance for updates and tags from today’s episode.
Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.
Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.
In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we learn about one of largest cycling clubs in the Boston area: the Charles River Wheelmen (CRW). My guest today is Randolph Williams, the President of CRW, an accomplished endurance athlete, and a passionate advocate for inclusivity in cycling.
Randolph shares how growing up in a family steeped in social activism shaped his journey, culminating in his impactful essay, Biking While Black. This powerful piece not only highlighted inequalities in the sport but also inspired tangible changes, such as the Wheels of Change Strava Art project.
We’ll uncover the rich history and mission of CRW, founded over 50 years ago by Dr. Ralph Galen, and explore what makes the club such a cornerstone of the Boston cycling scene. From their inclusive approach and legendary rides to their commitment to promoting camaraderie and belonging, CRW truly embodies the joy of shared cycling adventures.
Join us as Randolph talks about his epic solo rides—like Boston to Montreal—as well as how he’s helping shape the future of CRW. We’ll also discuss CRW’s structure, favorite routes, signature events like the Cranberry Century, and the club’s role in advocating for better cycling infrastructure in New England.
Whether you’re a casual cyclist looking for a welcoming community or a seasoned rider chasing epic routes, this club and this episode has something for everyone. Don’t miss Randolph’s inspiring stories and insights about the power of cycling to build community and create lasting change.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram @newenglandendurance for updates and tags from today’s episode.
Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.
Previous Episode
Bike Racing in New England: NEBRA’s Role in Road and Cyclocross Racing
Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.
In this episode of The New England Endurance Podcast, we’re joined by Alan Atwood, President of the New England Bike Racing Association (NEBRA) and a cornerstone of the region’s road and cyclocross cycling community. With over 30 years in competitive cycling—as a team manager, event organizer, announcer, and founder of Atwood Racing Services—Alan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the sport.
We dive into the origins and mission of NEBRA, the New England road and cyclocross racing calendars, the New England Cycling Hall of Fame, and how the organization collaborates with USA Cycling. Alan shares insights into the challenges facing the bike racing scene, including the decline of road racing, and NEBRA’s efforts to make the sport more inclusive and accessible.
Follow NEBRA at nebra.us and on Instagram or Facebook, and don’t forget to tag us @newenglandendurance with your favorite cycling stories. Rain or shine, New England’s terrain is calling—so get out there and ride!
Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.
Next Episode
Tough Ruck: A Journey of Honor and Community
Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.
In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis speaks with Tough Ruck race director Sarah Sweeney and five-time participant Jeffrey Paolino about the unique endurance event known as Tough Ruck. They discuss the basics of rucking, the history and significance of the event, the experience of participants, training tips, and the impact of the event on military families. The conversation highlights the camaraderie, community support, and the mission behind Tough Ruck, which honors fallen service members while promoting physical fitness and mental health.
Key Takeaways:
- Race date is day before the Boston Marathon! (Sunday, April 20, 2025)
- Rucking is a weighted walking or jogging activity.
- Tough Ruck started in 2012 with 18 participants.
- The event honors fallen military and first responders.
- Participants carry the names of fallen heroes during the event.
- The event has grown to over 1,000 participants.
- Finishers receive Boston Marathon medals.
- Funds raised go to support military families.
- Participants experience camaraderie and motivation throughout the event.
- Tough Ruck is accessible to anyone who can walk.
Enjoy the episode and follow us on Instagram at @NewEnglandEndurance.
Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.
New England Endurance Podcast - Charles River Wheelers (CRW): Building Community Through Cycling
Transcript
Hey , welcome to the New England Endurance Podcast . I am Art Tripotsis , and today I'm thrilled to have one of the largest and oldest cycling clubs in New England , the Charles River Wheelers , otherwise known as CRW and my guest today is Randolph Williams , president of CRW and an accomplished cyclist and advocate himself , and someone who , I think you'll come to realize , embodies
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