My name is Tori Monteleone, a systems engineer contractor for the NNSA (National Nuclear Security Association). Around two years ago I picked up my first hybrid bike that I bought used for just a small amount of money. Since then, cycling has turned a full 180 for me and become my passion (with a new real road bike of course!). I would spend many long rides alone and thought – huh wouldn’t it be amazing to feel like I was a pro racing other people?

That’s when I found GFNY. I signed up for my first race in Maryland with no intention to place, no training plan, no teacher, just solely for the challenge and to feel like I was part of something. What I got was something so much bigger than I expected and changed my whole perspective on if I’m even cut out for this.

Not only did I win first in my age category, I met so many amazing people and truly found a community that all shares the same passion of cycling. The race was one of the hardest things I’ve accomplished mentally and physically. What kept me going were the cyclists I was racing against. Rather than beating out one another, my competitors were actually helping me! Cheering me on to keep going, letting me draft off them when moments got tough, and encouraging me to push harder. GFNY changed something in me – it’s not just about being the best, it’s about the sharing the love and community of the sport out there on the road.

Since then I have been cycling and training nonstop reminding myself about the encouragement I received from GFNY that I belong and how healthy it is on the mind and body. Now, I’m looking ahead and forward to GFNY World Championship NYC in May. This time I plan to train properly, maybe shoot for another win or personal record, and most importantly cheer on the people who cheered on me. GFNY hosts incredible events that not only really make you feel like you’re in a pro race, but also feel like you are a part of something bigger.