Ride With a World-Record Holder: Aldine ISD Welcomes Cyclists for Bond Almand’s Extreme Journey

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Community members, cycling enthusiasts and Aldine ISD families gathered at W.W. Thorne Stadium on July 16 for “Ride With a World-Record Holder,” a community event hosted by Aldine ISD in partnership with Extreme Networks featuring ultra-endurance cyclist and four-time world-record holder Bond Almand.

Almand earned international recognition after setting the fastest recorded ride along the 14,000-mile Pan-American Route from Alaska to Argentina in 75 days. He is currently traveling across the United States as part of Bonds Extreme Journey, a 10,000-mile journey to all 30 NFL stadiums designed to inspire communities through endurance athletics, encourage healthy lifestyles and connect with people across the country.

Aldine ISD and Extreme Networks hosted the event to give students, families and community members the opportunity to hear Almand’s story firsthand while promoting perseverance, resilience and the power of community. The event also highlighted the longstanding partnership between Aldine ISD and Extreme Networks, which made it possible to bring this unique community experience to students, families and cycling enthusiasts.

Throughout the morning, attendees heard Almand share stories from his cross-country journey during a presentation and Q&A session, participated in a community bike ride alongside the world-record cyclist, connected with fellow cyclists and community members, enjoyed food and refreshments, received giveaways and T-shirts, and learned about the importance of youth health and physical activity during a presentation from GENYOUth. During the event, GENYOUth also donated flag football kits to support physical education programming in Aldine ISD schools, helping provide students with additional opportunities to stay active and engaged.

During the event, Almand reflected on one of the toughest days of his journey after experiencing multiple flat tires before completing a 210-mile ride.

“Most of the time you’re not having any fun at all, but it makes the really, really fun moments that much more special,” Almand said. “When you bike and you see a beautiful sunset or you get to a new city, it’s super rewarding.”

An Extreme Networks representative, Rafe Chaumette, said the company was excited to bring the event to Houston because of its longstanding relationship with Aldine ISD and its shared commitment to creating meaningful experiences for the community.

“This event is about bringing people together through things they love—cycling specifically,” Chaumette said. “It gives everybody an opportunity to come out, have a little bit of fun and learn from somebody who’s truly inspirational.”

Community member Joanna, who also enjoys cycling, said hearing about Almand’s journey inspired her to challenge herself and push beyond her own limits.

“He inspired me today. I need to step it up,” Joanna said.

While Almand’s journey across America continues, his visit to Aldine ISD gave community members the opportunity to ride alongside a world-record athlete, connect with one another and celebrate the values of perseverance, wellness and community. Thanks to partnerships with organizations like Extreme Networks and GENYOUth, the event also left a lasting impact by expanding opportunities for students to stay active both on and off the field.

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