By Kaitlin Rogers and Marc Perez
Today’s rider gets a special introduction because I get to write the intros and Marc is my boyfriend. After listening to me talk ad nauseam for years about Tanzania and the kids and TFFT and RIDETZ, this June Marc will see with his own eyes what all the fuss is about. I could not be more excited to share this experience with him, but I’ll save that for when it’s my turn for the interview!
He’ll be mortified by the model shot below, but whatever. I’m a photographer, and I think he’s nice to look at 🙂
1) Where are you from?
I was born in Pittsburgh, PA but have been on the move since then, having lived in Brussels, Belgium twice, the UK, Miami, and Durham and Chapel Hill, NC. Starting this summer though, I’m excited to call Charlotte my new home.
2) What do you do for work?
Most of my work is centered in pharmaceutical distribution, bringing products from Latin America to the US and vice versa.
3) What do you like to do on your spare time?
I’m an avid sports fan, and I’ve an always loved hockey and played growing up and through college. Now, I try to stay on the ice 2-3 times a week in adult hockey leagues. I’m also big golfer and very quickly becoming a cycling enthusiast. I’ll also take any chance I can get to travel to new places.
4) Who is your inspiration in life?
My parents have always been my example in life.
Me with my parents and sister, Sara
5) How did you hear about RIDETZ?
Two years ago, I saw my girlfriend Kaitlin’s incredible photography in 400 Miles, a book that captured the 2010 RIDETZ.
6) What inspired you to want to ride this June?
Two of my favorite activities are travel and athletic competition. When I heard about RIDETZ, I was hooked by the opportunity to combine global travel and an athletic challenge.
There’s much more to my decision to participate RIDETZ though. Over the past two years, I’ve been fortunate to see the work of The Foundation for Tomorrow stateside and I can’t wait to see the operation on the ground. My introduction into the organization has been my incredible girlfriend, Kaitlin. Tanzania and TFFT have had an enormous impact on her and for the past couple of years, she has raved about what an inspiring and transformational experience she had on the first ride. RIDETZ seemed like an amazing thing to do together, and I cannot wait to get to share this experience with her.
Me and Kaitlin
TFFT
7) Are you celebrating any milestone with RIDETZ?
Nope… only my first trip to Tanzania.
8) What is your favorite place to ride? (besides Tanzania that is)
I’m pretty new to the cycling world, so I ride wherever I can. Right now, I am mostly cruising around the streets of Charlotte and other places around North Carolina.
9) What kind of bike do you train on? Does it have a name?
I rock a Diamondback.
10) What unique ways are you planning to fundraise?
I’m having a couple of bar nights with friends to raise money and going to friends and family for support.
My college roommates
To support Marc in this effort, go here. We’ll be back with a new post on Monday!