Following Cassie’s farewell from the organization in April, after over a decade of dedicated effort, James Whateley will be coming onboard in a new role as Executive Director of both Bike the US for MS and Bike the UK for MS. He has a rich history with the organization, having first encountered the TransAmerica team back in 2012 when he was 19 and on a self-contained bike adventure. That chance encounter changed his life, as he was inspired by the organization’s founder, Don Fraser, to help others experience the same magic of these rides.
James’ grandfather passed away with multiple sclerosis before he was born, but his first true experience with MS came when he was invited to attend MS support group meet-ups by the Bike the US for MS TransAmerica team. He credits the team’s generosity for getting him through the first few weeks of his adventure, included providing food, water, and even allowing him to stay with the team at their overnights. The next time you encounter a self-supported rider, extend a helping hand, as you never know how they might contribute to the organization.
After returning as a Route Leader in 2013, James helped set up Bike the UK for MS in 2014 with the help of Cassie and Don. During his time studying at university, James ran two-week adventures from John O’Groats to Land’s End and continued to hop across to the US for various trips, including a segment of the Southern Tier and taking on the Great Divide mountain bike route with a group of BTUSFMS alumni.
After finishing university, James ran Bike the UK for MS full-time with help from Cassie and Kaylyn Messenger in the US, expanding the organization and offering a range of trips ranging from three days to two weeks. The UK organization has been incredibly fulfilling for James and he is now excited to take on a new role with Bike the US for MS and explore opportunities to further collaboration between the two organizations.
Though he is sad to see Cassie leave, James recognizes the decade of phenomenal work she has put into the organization and is eager to build on her success. He is confident that his passion and experience will serve him well in his new role as Executive Director of Bike the US for MS and Bike the UK for MS.
