At GNC, we take immense pride in our franchisees who go above and beyond to make a difference in their communities. One such #TeamGNC member is Matt Jones, a dedicated GNC franchisee who also participates in the Gold Star Mission Ride. This 200-mile ride honors fallen soldiers and raises funds for scholarships for the families of military service members who have lost their lives in active duty. This September, Matt will challenge himself further by participating in the Gold Star Mission 500, a grueling 500-mile ride completed in just five days.
We had the opportunity to speak with Matt about his inspiring journey, his dedication to health and wellness, and how he balances his roles as a GNC franchisee and an endurance athlete.
What inspired you to participate in the Gold Star Mission Ride, and can you tell us more about the cause it supports?
Matt Jones: The stories the families tell us about their fallen loved ones inspire me to be more and do more. Gold Star families have sacrificed so much, and the least we can do is ensure the name and story of their fallen lives on. The pain we feel during these extreme endurance events is nothing compared to what these families have felt. Gold Star Mission raises awareness and offers support to Gold Star Families, who have lost an immediate family member due to active-duty military service. One of the ways we support families is through scholarships. We accept donations and sponsorships, allowing us to award at least 34 scholarships each year, each in the name of a fallen service member. Since 2017, we’ve awarded over $280,000 in scholarships, with over 95% of funds going directly to program costs.
How did you get involved with the Gold Star Mission 500, and what motivates you to take on such a challenging 500-mile ride?
Matt Jones: There are so many memories and experiences, I couldn’t even begin to share them all. One ride that sticks with me is the year I was the organization’s President. We had several Gold Star Family members and veterans come from Poland to participate, which brought extra media coverage. At one stop, I agreed to an interview right after getting off the bike. Mental and physical fatigue had me worried I would mess it up, but one of our Gold Star Mothers, Vonda, came over to give me a pep talk and helped me get through that interview and many more. Hearing the stories of their fallen loved ones creates a bond between all of us. Everyone who works with this organization does it selflessly and goes beyond to accomplish the mission.
How do you prepare physically and mentally for a ride of this magnitude? What does your training regimen look like?
Matt Jones: I generally cycle 100-200 miles per week, with varying distances and intensity in each ride. Some rides are low intensity for longer distances, while others can be shorter with intervals of much higher intensity. Training hard and spending time on the bike prepares you mentally to endure the challenges.
How does participating in events like the Gold Star Mission Ride align with your values and goals as a GNC franchisee?
Matt Jones: Both require hard work and trying to do the right thing for someone you may or may not know. It’s about making a positive impact, whether in business or through charitable efforts.
As a GNC franchisee, how do you incorporate your knowledge of health and wellness into your training and preparation for long-distance rides?
Matt Jones: Doing long endurance events requires more than just meals. My broader knowledge helps me incorporate supplements like EAAs, carbs, creatine, and electrolytes to enhance my training. What I take depends on the ride that particular day. Supplements help me improve my training and performance, and maintain it during a long day in the saddle. Some of my go-to products are Beyond Raw Precision Amino, Vital Elements Pak, GNC AMP Hydration, and Lean-Whey.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of being a GNC franchisee?
Matt Jones: Working with customers and seeing their results. Recommending products that help others reach their goals is the most rewarding part by far.
What advice would you give to other GNC franchisees who are looking to get involved in community events or charitable causes?
Matt Jones: It’s a commitment. It’s hard work but rewarding at the same time. If you stop though, it’s hard to start back up. I encourage others to visit Gold Star Mission to sign up for events or support in other ways. We’re always looking for volunteers and cyclists. They can also contact me, and I can point them in the right direction.
What has been your biggest source of inspiration throughout your journey as a GNC franchisee and a participant in the Gold Star Mission Ride?
Matt Jones: Making a positive impact on others.
What are your future goals for your GNC franchise and your involvement in endurance sports?
Matt Jones: I want to continue to get better at both!
How do you see your role as a GNC franchisee contributing to the health and wellness of your community?
Matt Jones: The goal is to improve it! Engaging with customers about supplements and health products helps us contribute to their wellbeing.
Matt’s dedication to honoring fallen soldiers through the Gold Star Mission Ride, combined with his commitment to health and wellness as a GNC franchisee, is truly inspiring. If you’re in the area, visit Matt’s stores to support your local business and get expert advice on your health and fitness journey. Join us in cheering him on as he embarks on the Gold Star Mission 500 this September.
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