At twenty-two, Ryan Stotland has just completed his first year as a Bond Analyst at BCA Research, after graduating from Tufts University with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. Yet what Ryan is perhaps most known for, is his passion for cycling and his commitment to causes he believes in. At 12, Ryan may have learned to ride a bike a little later than most kids, but once he got the hang of it, he never let it go. In 2003, at 16 years of age, Ryan cycled across France. In 2004 he tackled the U.S. It wasn’t until his third major tour – of Canada no less – with his good friend Daniel Kliger during the summer of 2006, that Ryan parlayed his passion for long-distance biking into pedaling for a cause. Coming from a family with a long history of generously supporting the Jewish General Hospital, the choice was obvious. After consulting with the JGH on which departments were the most in need of funds, Ryan selected the future Skin Cancer Centre as the primary beneficiary for his 8,000 km tour, raising over $150,000! The success of the Canadian tour inspired Ryan to seek out the involvement of another cause close to his heart – the environment – broadening the proceeds of his 12,000 km South American tour to include the David Suzuki Foundation.

“I have no idea what to expect! This is a much bigger journey and I hope it will be even more successful than my last. It’s daunting, but I’m really excited about the challenge. Four months on the road is a long time… I think something special is going to happen. ” - Ryan Stotland

So do we! Which is why we encourage everyone to follow Ryan’s incredible journey right here at 12000km.org, where you can stay up to date via Ryan’s blog, send much-appreciated words of encouragement and participate by giving to Ryan’s causes.