Gabi and Pablo join NY-to-DC Climate Ride

Two Durham cyclists, Pablo Torres and his girlfriend Gabrielle Trapenberg, are raising money for their upcoming Climate Ride, a 300-mile roll from New York to Washington, D.C. They call themselves Latinos por el planeta.

Pablo says he and Gabi are the only two North Carolinians scheduled to join cyclists from across the United States on the five-day bike trip, Sept. 26-30, which is a fund-raiser and a "climate conference on wheels:"

Along the way, expert speakers will educate and inspire Climate Riders and local communities about the science, the policies and the solutions to global warming. Participants will meet knowledgeable renewable energy experts, climate activists, scientists, and leaders committed to making a difference. The ride will finish at the steps of the U.S. Capitol, where riders will have the opportunity to meet with the nation’s government leaders and make a powerful statement about the need for renewable energy and climate change legislation.

They have a lot of training to do, and a lot of money to raise.

Participants are required to raise $2,400 per person to benefit Focus the Nation, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and Clean Air – Cool Planet, and their climate, energy and alternative transportation projects.

They have two fund-raising events scheduled: An 80s vs. 90s dance party at Tallula's in Chapel Hill, 10 pm on Aug. 29, and a silent auction at the West End Wine Bar in Durham 5-8 pm Sept. 3.

Donations are tax-deductible. You can give online at www.climateride.org -> Donations -> Give to a team (search for Latinos por el planeta). Or contact Pablo and Gabi directly: gabitrap@gmail.com or (919) 548-3619.