This is the lookout camel atop the
Makhtesh Ramon

 Beautiful views!!

 Participated in the ceremony that ends Shabbat and welcomes the new week...I love the Jewish traditions.

 Ending the ride from the Northern Negev to Mitzpe Ramon. Was able to visit Ben Gurion's grave then hiked  to Ein Avadat

Enjoying Shabbat with wonderful friends!! Tammi, Leiba and Laurie

The Israel Ride So Far

Hi Everyone!

Sorry for the delay. I'd like to share a few more photos from the ride and a little explanation about days so far! I can't believe it is almost over!

Tuesday was a day for connection. We had the opportunity to meet and learn about the motivations of the other Israel Riders. We discussed our reasons for supporting Hazon and Arava Institute and why our commitment to the ride from Jerusalem to Eilat is important..(175-350 miles) The pictures show a thousand words...we felt connected as a team on this mission of peace. Some of us took this opportunity to tour the Old City of Jerusalem, Har Herzl, and the national cemetery.

There are three riding groups in the Israel Ride, Shomrim (30 miles) Tzofim (55 miles) and the Chalutzim (70 plus) Many of us rode out Wed morning with the Chalutzim group. We started with a nice descent and then a tough climb through the Jerusalem Hills to Beit Guvrin. After lunch we headed south around the West Bank, ending our ride for the day just north of Be'er Sheva! After a lot of riding it was time to rest and welcome in Shabbat.

Saturday was a rest day to observe Shabbat...We had discussions about the Arava Institute and Hazon and how the institute is helping to crumble the distrust and other obstacles that are present at the borders...

What beautiful Shabbat ceremony and sunset we experienced. I will share the rest of the journey soon!

The Start of the Ride!

The ride is well underway! The next few photos are at the start of the ride, riding to Be'er Sheva.

We then had a little fun at the briefing meeting Wednesday night while getting information about the Thursday ride!

Here's a few fun shot of today's ride to the Yatir Forest and then to kibbutz. Once we settle in I'll write a bit more about the experience so far!

The Beginning....

Greetings !!!

The Israel Ride is 5 days away. We have a group of 18 riders from the Mandell Jewish Community Center arriving in Israel November 1st and 2nd. We will meet up with the other Israel riders (175 total) and begin this incredible journey on November 4th. Please stay tuned for wonderful pictures and comments about our experience!

DONE!

Photo Updates

Some more photos...

And check out Mel's blog when you get a chance!

Getting ready to go down the big crater.

Entering Eilat! 5 miles to go.

Israel's Grand Canyon.