In 1999, Jeremy Gilley set out to create the first ever world peace day with a fixed calendar date. After traveling the world and meeting all sorts of people he successfully lobbied to many governments and in 2002, the United Nations, created that day ... the 21st of September every year. Its hard to believe that we as a planet never had this day and we finally have it here and now. Most people haven’t heard of it yet and its through events like "Ride For Peace" that the word is getting out there.
“If you were going to build a house you would start with one brick. If we were to create a peaceful world we should start with one day.” Jeremy Gilley, www.peaceoneday.org
The first annual event was held last year in the United Kingdom. The event was a huge success and is expanding this year. We have sent out letters with DVD's to every cable wake park in the world encouraging them to hold their own event this year. We already have several cables committed and we are aiming for many more! So, if you are involved with a cable wake park, please ask the powers that be to get involved and run an event this year.
“Those who have had opportunities to travel abroad, ride and meet new people from different parts of the world know full well how easily our perceptions and ideas about others can be changed. Stereotypes and preconceived notions disappear and a sense of understanding, respect and appreciation for other people and cultures develops. This type of event not only provides an opportunity to expose our sport, get people involved and actively participate, but it also has great potential to send an important message to the world by promoting peaceful relations, building cultural bridges and friendships and fostering teamwork and a sense of community through sport. If we as riders can love and respect one another despite our different nationalities, religions and cultures because we share a common bond and passion that helps unite and bring us together, then others can as well." - Danielle Crawford
So, instead of trying to explain what the event is about and the connection between Jeremy and wakeboarding, you should check out the videos. You can watch them up on the "Ride For Peace" web site www.rideforpeace.tv or or the Front Edge web site www.frontedge.tv There is some awesome footage with great rail riding and even a toeside S-bend 9! In between this great riding you will hear more information on the event and learn about what's going on.
