Orientation Ride Dates and Times
Join weekly rides May through September, 20–40 miles across local routes.
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Email Us100 Miles • One Mission • Infinite Impact
ORs help you train and prepare for Ride Day. Anyone bike-ready for the listed distance is welcome, and registration for The Ride is not required. Come spin some wheels with us and learn what The Ride is all about.
New Riders
Come to an early Orientation Ride with lower miles to meet the team, learn about The Ride, and get started.
All Riders
The purpose of ORs is to introduce you to how we ride on Ride Day. Training to ride 100 miles at pace takes time and effort, so follow a 100-mile training plan in addition to attending ORs.
Weather
All rides are weather dependent and subject to change.
Ride Requirement
New riders must complete 2 ORs. Returning riders must complete 1 OR. All riders must raise a minimum of $350.
Orientation Ride Starting Locations
There will also be pop-up rides during the week at Colonie Town Park, Helderberg Hudson Rail Trail, and Zim Smith. Check the Albany RFMC Ride Family Facebook page for updates.
Goals of ORs
- Learn how to ride safely 2×2 as one group
- Learn about silent tributes
- Practice slow-speed bike control entering school stops
- Become familiar with the Albany RFMC mission
- Establish appropriate ride etiquette
- Follow a 100-mile training schedule of your choice
Ride Thoughts
- This is not a race. Passing happens on the left with control, one at a time, to close larger gaps.
- Please communicate debris, holes, turns, stopping, slowing, and car passing so riders up and down the line are informed.
- Communicate your intentions to the riders around you before making a move.
- Like training for your first 5K, half marathon, or full marathon, preparation is key to a smooth Ride Day.
Ready to take on a life-changing challenge?The Albany Ride for Missing Children is a fully supported, one-day, 100-mile cycling event with a powerful purpose.
Escorted by local law enforcement, riders travel in a 2×2 formation through our communities, stopping at local schools to share messages of child safety and hope. Along the route, we honor families of missing children, pay tribute to fallen officers, and stand alongside those who work every day to protect children.
Ride Day
2026 Albany Ride
for Missing Children
Start & End Location
Impact Athletic Center, 390 NY-146, Halfmoon, NY
Date
Friday, September 25, 2026
Ride Requirements
New Riders Welcome
Yes! ORs start at just 20 miles and increase gradually. Ride at your own pace during the week and ask a shepherd about group rides. Many riders started just like you!
Orientation Rides will definitely help but you should plan on following a 100 mile training guide, especially if you have been a casual rider or are new to cycling. This is just one example of how to train to ride 100 miles- 8 Week Training Plan
Yes. This isn’t a race—it’s a mission. ORs help you learn our ride format, get familiar with our purpose, and sync with the group’s pace and communication style.
No problem. Check out these great local resources:
Albany Bike Rescue (low-cost refurbished bikes)
Troy Bike Rescue (learn how to fix your bike)
Local Bike Shops
Expect an early start (5:30 AM arrival), lots of emotional moments, school visits, silent tributes, and support every step of the way. See full Ride Day Info Sheet for details
We ride rain or shine. Dress in layers, wear your official Ride jersey on top, and come prepared with gloves, toe covers, and a light jacket.
Yes! Bring a small gear bag. It will be transported to rest stops where you can access it throughout the day.
Yes. Your family is welcome! The Closing Ceremony includes food and celebration.