Manifests at Malcolm X Park on March 18th mark the start of Rolling Resistance, the latest in a growing local tradition of Women's Alley Cats in Mach. Rolling Resistance is a WTF (Women/Trans/Femme) Alley Cat that explores sites and themes in the city related to gender issues and activism. Participants were given a list of checkpoints to visit and were posed questions at each one. There were prizes for speed, points, and as with all Alley Cats, a DFL prize.
Alicia, like many were racing their first Alley Cat. "I've been knitting since I could tie my shoes," working on what she calls stoplight knitting.
Temporary Tattoos for checkpoints
A route is planned beneath Joan of Arc. Alley Cats reward speed and strategy.
Dropping in from the hill at Malcolm X park
Learning to sign "Girls Rule the World" on Q Street.
Leigh Ann, board member of HIPS (Rolling Resistance beneficiary), and team members visit the White House checkpoint where they had to answer "Who were the first people to picket the White House?" and we're encouraged to leave a message to the new resident.
After suffering a mechanical, a Rolling Resistance participant hops on a CABI to finish the race.
DC Bike Polo checkpoint at Rush Rink 1229 D St SE. Bike Polo curious? Check out their Facebook and you can join the fun.
Outside Women in Armed Services Memorial checkpoint: "What is the last in word in Clara Barton's Quote featured on the memorial?"
"I LEAVE YOU LOVE. I LEAVE YOU HOPE. I LEAVE YOU THE CHALLENGE OF DEVELOPING CONFIDENCE IN ONE ANOTHER. I LEAVE YOU A THIRST FOR EDUCATION. I LEAVE YOU A RESPECT FOR THE USE OF POWER. I LEAVE YOU FAITH. I LEAVE YOU RACIAL DIGNITY. I LEAVE YOU A DESIRE TO LIVE HARMONIOUSLY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEN. I LEAVE YOU FINALLY, A RESPONSIBILITY TO OUR YOUNG PEOPLE." - Mary McLeod Bethune
Checkpoint: "What organization did Mary McLeod found?"
Banishing the Patriarchy at 666 Irving St. checkpoint: "What does W.I.T.C.H. stand for?"
Organizing an Alley Cat can be just as intense as racing. After you've set up all the pieces; designing, preparing, and coordinating the event, there is great excitement to watch it all unfold. Manifests are scored as racers file in. Rolling Resistance organizers Snehee and Leah were inspired by the tradition of Women's Alleycats in March and enthusiastically took on organizing their first race.
Big thanks to all the organizers, volunteers, participants and sponsors that made this race a huge success.
Rolling Resistance Winner: Brownen Rice
All proceeds benefited HIPS, a local organization that provides harm reduction services to communities impacted by sex work and drug use. Their staff was grateful for the donations! Including board member, Leigh Ann who particpated in Rolling Resistance herself.
Points Winners:
- Thin Mints
- Bob Ross Rollers
- Dulce de Leche
- Cakes
A big thanks to all the organizers, volunteers, riders and sponsors for a great event! Including our friends at All-City Cycles, Abus, and Po Campo .