Max Avner has worn a lot of Pelotonia hats over the years. He started out as a Volunteer back in 2009, later became a Virtual Rider, and now this year marks his third year as a 100-mile Rider. Each year Max continues to push the limits of his fundraising efforts, always raising more than the year before. Originally from Cleveland, Max moved to Columbus 17 years ago to attend Ohio State where he met his wife, Allison. Now residing in Delaware, Ohio, Max and Allison love spending time outside with their five year old son, Hank, who one day aspires to join his parents on the road to #OneGoal! Read on to hear more about Max and his Pelotonia journey.

Why did you decide to be a part of the Pelotonia community? Our close friend and Peloton captain Jason Bloch rode 100 miles in the inaugural Pelotonia.  When Jason registered and told us about the event we quickly registered to volunteer for the Opening Ceremony.  Jason was riding in honor of his sister Ali who was battling Glioblastoma Brain Tumor.

In 2011 my mom Debbie Avner was also diagnosed with Glioblastoma Brain Tumor.  I was already active in the Pelotonia community as a Volunteer and began raising funds as a Virtual Rider.  In 2014 I decided to ride 100 miles with Jason after he was diagnosed with testicular cancer.

What would you tell someone who is nervous about fundraising and thinks they can’t do it? The commitments are aggressive but I recommend teaming up with a group and joining a Peloton.  Working together you can come up with unique ideas to bring in more donations.  Last year, we had a first time Rider join our Peloton and he did a few creative things to raise money.  He setup a hot dog stand in his neighborhood and worked a deal with a local restaurant to capture a percentage of each sale on a specific day.  Whether you partner with a local establishment, create a product to sell, or offer a service for a fee (mow lawns, drive for Uber) you can hit your goal.

Do you have a favorite Pelotonia story?  On my first ride I remember coming up to a large hill around the 90 mile mark.  I dug deep and hammered my way up the hill, and when I reached the top, I was met by five Riders clapping their hands and cheering me along.  When you are out on the road, you will be encouraged by people cheering you on along the side of the road and by fellow Riders.  There is a tremendous sense of community amongst Riders.

What is your favorite part of Pelotonia weekend? The Opening Ceremony on Friday night is a great way to kick off the weekend.  There is live music, great food, refreshments and a great environment to enjoy spending time with your family. It gives me a strong sense of community and pride to be a part of an amazing fundraiser.

 What’s your favorite part of Pelotonia overall? When you approach the finish line, you see friends and family cheering you on.  I love seeing my son Hank with a handmade sign jumping up and down cheering “go Daddy go!”; Just thinking about it puts a smile on my face.  Also free beer.  Oh yeah!  When you get to Gambier they have free beer.  Nothing is more refreshing than that after 100 miles in the hot August sun!