Rice Bike Race is a relay race held annually at Rice University. Teams race to win by alternating between chugging water and cycling around the track. A highly anticipated event during the school year, each residential college participates in its own unique traditions in the weeks leading up to the race. 

I had already heard a lot about this relay race during O-Week (new student orientation), but I had never actually considered participating in it myself. However, thanks to my O-Week advisor, Sammy, I was encouraged to go on a bike ride with her and some other friends. I had never ridden a road bike before and was totally unfamiliar with the thin, light frame of the bike, as well as the process of changing speeds. The biggest challenge for me was learning how to “clip in,” which involves wearing special shoes that secure your feet to the pedals. This helps you pedal more fluidly, but can also make you feel like you might fall off if you brake! Once I returned to our dorm, however, I realized just how much I had enjoyed riding. For the rest of my freshman year, whenever I felt stressed or overwhelmed, I would head out for a bike ride to clear my head.

As the year progressed and spring semester arrived, I officially decided to participate in Rice Bike Race. I started training with the team and discovered a new group of friends with similar interests. The night before the relay race, all of the bikers and chuggers ate dinner together, and the women’s team even had a sleepover. The next morning, I arrived at the track and was nervous to see tons of people there. I ran through several possibilities in my mind: What if I fell off the bike? What if I didn't brake in time? What if I hit someone after crossing the finish line? Thankfully, none of these scenarios happened and I had an incredible, adrenaline-filled experience! 

Looking back, I now see how Rice Bike Race really helped me come out of my shell during freshman year. If you’re new to campus, I hope you will explore biking (or chugging!) at Rice Bike Race. Even if it feels intimidating at first, you might just find a new tradition to love like I did!

-Lena, Will Rice ‘27 (Published on 4/1/2025)