"I've always been in plus, extended sizes...like, Lane Bryant queen as a 14-year-old, business casual. Now I have a clothing sponsor. I get paid to ride my bike and be in photo shoots. My cellulite is out and my stomach is out. I'm just proudly standing there with my body on display."
"Blonsky and fellow fat cyclist Kailey Kornhauser-the two fangirled over each other on Instagram before meeting in person at a 2019 bike summit-cofounded a nonprofit called All Bodies on Bikes with the goal of making the bike world friendlier to fat riders. With 15 local chapters nationwide, the group leads rides and retreats, educates first-timers on the basics of bikepacking, and has worked with brands to expand size ranges for bike shorts and rain jackets."
Marley Blonsky, who grew up not seeing herself represented in athletic spaces despite playing multiple sports, cofounded All Bodies on Bikes with Kailey Kornhauser to create an inclusive cycling community for fat riders. The nonprofit operates 15 local chapters nationwide, organizing rides, retreats, and bikepacking education while collaborating with brands to expand clothing size ranges. Blonsky's advocacy extends beyond the organization through a children's book, documentary appearances, and sponsorships with cycling brands like Shredly, where she proudly displays her body in advertising campaigns. Her work challenges traditional athletic representation and demonstrates how community-driven initiatives can transform industry practices.
#fat-activism #cycling-inclusivity #body-representation #nonprofit-community-building #athletic-advocacy
Read at Portland Monthly
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