Camp life is a core piece of the Empire State Experience (ESR) journey. From unbelievable programming to mouthwatering meals and weeklong bonding, you gained’t wish to miss this uniquely ESR expertise.

“It’s a part of the camaraderie that makes the ESR so particular,” stated Steve Mars, co-chair of ESR and longtime rider.

We all know there are numerous elements to contemplate when committing to this seven-day journey. That’s why Steve, together with just a few different riders and ESR employees, are right here to assist set your thoughts relaxed about tenting.

1. Mission-based programming:

We strongly encourage riders to participate in night programming. At every campsite, you’ll learn the way you’re making a distinction by means of participating, private and impactful programming. Some evenings you’ll hear from sufferers and docs concerning the fundraising {dollars} at work. Different nights you could hearken to riders about what the mission means to them — and even share your individual story! Every night is totally different, and altogether you’ll achieve a better understanding of the ESR mission.

“My first Empire State journey was 2016. I used to be a mountain bike individual, and I stated I’m going to do that journey as a option to honor my mom. I believed it was going to be a one-and-done expertise, but it surely was the night programming that informed me that Empire State Experience isn’t only a biking occasion. It’s a a lot larger concept and larger idea,” stated Steve.

2. Meals:

Using 500+ miles throughout New York State takes ardour, dedication and a dedication to getting the work achieved. So does feeding the 300+ riders and employees members every July. Enter father-daughter duo Adam and Johanna Morrison of Two Bushes Catering.

With the assist of ESR employees and a catering group of seven others, Adam and Johanna be sure street warriors are well-fed and able to sort out 60 to 100 miles every day.

Riders and employees members alike collect family-style for breakfast and dinner every day, with a concentrate on clear, entire meals and some staples that riders want like pasta and protein.

“Vitamin may be very, essential to our riders, and the meals is nice. There’s plenty of it,” stated Tom Johnston, ESR Operations Supervisor.

3. Comfort:

ESR is tenting made straightforward! Comfortable Campers, together with our volunteers and behind-the-scenes group, work exhausting to ensure once you arrive at camp after a protracted day on the street, you’re as comfy as doable. Tents, air mattresses, camp chairs and clear towels are arrange and brought down each day by the employees at Comfortable Campers.

Every camp has a rider reception and providers hub. Restrooms or moveable restrooms and a touring bathe truck can be found on website. Riders even have entry to a motorcycle restore group, electronics charging stations and a lot extra!

“After the riders go away at round 7 a.m., we pack up the whole lot. Comfortable Campers packs up 300 tents individually. They roll them up, put them of their trailers, drive an hour to the subsequent place and unload all of them,” stated ESR Manufacturing Supervisor Katie Menke.

“Tenting makes it simpler as a result of the shuttling backwards and forwards is arduous. You’re doing it twice at each campsite. If you’re tenting, you’ll be able to roll away from bed, dress, go have breakfast, wheel your bag over the truck and also you’re good to go,” stated Steve.

4. Expertise

ESR is an expertise in contrast to some other, and that’s largely because of the tenting surroundings and tradition. However don’t take our phrase for it! That is what different street warriors should say about tenting:

“Everyone seems to be so pleasant and useful — the power! I acquired to fulfill some unbelievable individuals and discuss to them about their why and share my why. There are some people who find themselves retired. There are some professionals. There are some younger individuals, so it’s fairly unbelievable being uncovered to all of that variety.” – Allison Joseph

“On the finish of the day, it’s not concerning the journey. It’s concerning the funds raised. And it’s about hanging out at camp once you get there. Belief me, the beer tastes actually good after a day of driving.” – Richard Noll

“I did my first Empire State Experience, hopped on the bus and off I went. I’d by no means camped. I used to be a Vacation Inn woman, however I realized to camp, and I’ve realized lots of issues about myself that I by no means thought that I might do or might do.” – Maria Thor

Nonetheless have questions?

Allow us to reply just a few! Click on right here.

Don’t hesitate to succeed in out to our Empire State Experience group at empirestateride@roswellpark.org or through telephone at (716) 845-3179. Our fundraising specialists, Katie and Tori, can reply any questions you might need.

We are able to’t wait to tackle this journey with you!