Coach Mark Gilliam is in his third year coaching the Georgia Ride Team. As an avid, long-time cyclist himself, Mark loves sharing his knowledge and experience with other riders. Prior to joining up with the Ride to Cure Diabetes, Mark worked with riders participating in Bike MS, and he is a USA Cycling Certified Coach. When asked about working with Coach Mark, here’s what some of our JDRF riders have to say:

“While Mark could ride at the front of the pack with the best of them, he much prefers bringing up the rear which sums up his selfless nature and desire to make sure not a single person feels left behind. Mark particularly enjoys working with new riders to ensure they have a fun, but safe, experience on the road. Mark’s knowledge and passion for cycling is unsurpassed and his desire to share this with others is infectious.  All of the coaches involved with the JDRF Ride to Cure Diabetes are excellent however, the GA Chapter feels like we have the best of the best.” (Michael, long-time rider and experienced cyclist)

“In addition to his unending stamina and technical expertise, I think the biggest thing that Mark brings to the team is his great (and infectious) passion for cycling. He is always cheerful and clearly glad to be out biking and sharing the wealth of his experience with everyone else. He manages to make even rookie riders feel included and lays to rest any fears they may have about their new venture. I have seen him gently coax/push new riders way past their threshold in a way that they didn’t even know how much they were doing till they were actually done with the ride. He gives advice in such an easy manner that the receiver is not made to feel intimidated or defensive by it. He is always just a phone call away for advice – giving tips, names, references for bike shops, equipment, nutrition and training. A great coach!” (Sunnie, second-year rider)

“Mark honestly takes coaching to the next level.  Whether you are a novice to the sport, or a pro, he has so much to offer.  My very first training ride he gave me so many good pointers to make my ride that much better and enjoyable.  Just a couple of weeks ago on the Comet trail, he spotted an issue with my back tire…..apparently it was about to fall off……..who knew!  He will see to it that you finish whatever goal you set for yourself!  He is part of the reason I have returned to the Ride.  Awesome coach he is! (Anne, second-year rider)

In all the spare time Mark has after coaching, working to help transition high school athletes into the NCAA, and teaching tumbling and gymnastics classes, Mark can be found racing his mountain bike all over the south.