Question 1

What is Making Miles Matter?

Accepted Answer

Making Miles Matter Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in . We organize cycling events — from charity rides to weekly group rides — that build community and raise funds for local families in Hancock County.

Question 2

What events do you host?

Accepted Answer

Our flagship event is the Hancock Horizontal Hundred (HHH), a gravel century ride each September with over 50 years of history. We also host the Findlay Further Fondo in spring, Wheels & Reels film nights, Ride to the Movies, weekly Saturday shop rides, Cranksgiving, and more. Check our Events page for the full calendar, or read the full HHH history at makingmilesmatter.com/history.

Question 3

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! Every event offers multiple distance options. The HHH has distances from 15 miles (free!) to 100 miles. Our weekly group rides welcome all skill levels. We want everyone to feel comfortable riding with us.

Question 4

Where does the money go?

Accepted Answer

100% of event registration proceeds go directly to supporting families in Hancock County. We partner with local organizations to provide meals, supplies, and support to families in need. We keep our overhead as close to zero as possible through volunteer labor and sponsor support.

Question 5

How do I register for an event?

Accepted Answer

Head to our Events page, choose your event, select your distance, create an account (or sign in), sign the waiver, and pay. The whole process takes about 2 minutes. Some distances are free!

Question 6

What is the referral program?

Accepted Answer

When you register, you get a unique referral link. Share it with friends — when they register using your link, you earn points toward prizes. Top referrers earn gear, event swag, and raffle entries. Check the Leaderboard to see where you stand.

Question 7

Can I volunteer instead of riding?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We need 30+ volunteers for each major event. Roles include registration desk, rest stop support, course marshals, SAG drivers, photography, and post-ride party setup. Volunteers get a free t-shirt, meals, and raffle entries. Sign up on our Volunteer page.

Question 8

Are donations tax-deductible?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Making Miles Matter Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. You'll receive a receipt via email.

Question 9

How can my business become a sponsor?

Accepted Answer

We offer multiple sponsorship tiers — from Community Sponsor to Title Sponsor. Sponsors get logo placement on event materials, website visibility, and direct access to our rider community. Visit our Sponsors page or email us directly.

Question 10

What should I bring on ride day?

Accepted Answer

At minimum: your bike, helmet, water bottles, and a good attitude. We'll have rest stops with snacks and water. We recommend a spare tube, tire levers, a mini pump, and sunscreen. A detailed packing list will be emailed to registered riders before the event.

Question 11

Is there a post-ride party?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Every major event includes a post-ride celebration with food, drinks, music, raffle drawings, and community vibes. It's the best part of the day (besides the ride itself).

Question 12

Where are events located?

Accepted Answer

Most events start and finish in Findlay, Ohio. Routes go through the scenic backroads of Hancock County — flat, fast, and beautiful. Specific venue details are shared on each event page.

Question 13

What is the refund and cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Registration fees are non-refundable but are transferable to another rider. If an event is cancelled due to severe weather or safety concerns, we'll communicate next steps via email — typically a rescheduled date or credit toward a future event. We do not cancel for light rain.

Question 14

What happens in bad weather?

Accepted Answer

We ride rain or shine. Events are only cancelled or modified for severe weather (lightning, dangerous wind, or extreme heat advisories). If conditions change, registered riders will be notified by email and on our social media channels by 6:00 AM on event day.

Question 15

Are there age requirements?

Accepted Answer

Riders under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver and ride with an adult. There is no minimum age for shorter distances (15 and 30 miles), but we recommend the 62- and 100-mile distances for riders 16 and older. All riders must wear a helmet.

Question 16

Where do I park?

Accepted Answer

Free parking is available at the event start/finish venue. Specific parking locations and directions are shared on each event page and emailed to registered riders the week before the event.

Question 17

What about packet pickup?

Accepted Answer

Packet pickup is available the morning of each event during check-in (typically 6:30–7:15 AM for the HHH). Your packet includes your bib number, course map, and any swag included with your registration. We do not offer pre-event pickup at this time.

Question 18

When will routes be published?

Accepted Answer

Final routes with turn-by-turn details are published 2–4 weeks before each event. Registered riders receive the route via email along with a link to download the GPX file for their bike computer. General route previews are available on each event's detail page.

Question 19

What type of bike do I need?

Accepted Answer

Any bike in safe working condition is welcome. Road bikes, gravel bikes, and hybrids all work great on HHH routes. The HHH is primarily on paved county roads. E-bikes are welcome on all distances. Mountain bikes will work but aren't ideal for the terrain.

Question 20

What happens after I register?

Accepted Answer

You'll receive a confirmation email immediately. In the weeks before the event, you'll get updates about routes, parking, what to bring, and day-of logistics. On event day, check in at the registration desk to get your bib and packet, then ride!

Question 21

How will I receive event updates?

Accepted Answer

All registered riders receive updates by email. We also post updates to our Facebook page and Instagram. Subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of any page to stay in the loop even before you register.

Frequently Asked Questions