Tag Archives: charity

Metric Century!

Well, I did it.  I rode a metric century (100 km / 62 miles) for the 2013 Chicago Tour de Cure!

That’s the longest distance I’ve ever ridden in a single ride.

I also raised $5,291 for the ADA. That made me a Champion on a Mission. A big thank you to everyone who sponsored me.

I’m super proud of myself for both achievements!

I was quite worried about the weather.  The forecast was for rain, but thankfully the meteorologists were as accurate as usual, and the weather was perfect.  Sunny, warm, but a bit cool at the start.  Perfect riding weather.

I rode with my friends Marty & Steve. Due to allergies, lack of sleep, and the remnants of a bad cough, Steve wasn’t able to finish.  Steve did do 45 miles which, under the circumstances, was pretty darn good. Marty and I finished the ride with few problems.

Below is a map and statistics of the ride from Strava…

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Tour de Cure 2013: GOAL!

Champions-to-Stop-Diabetes-Logo-GOLD-jpgWell, I’ve achieved my goal for the 2013 Tour de Cure!

Last year I raised $3500 for diabetes research & education … this year I initially set my goal a little higher than that … $4000.  I quickly found out I have a group of very generous and supportive friends, family, & co-workers.  My goal was (rather quickly) raised to $5000.

Last Thursday, I achieved that goal.

Am I going to stop trying to raise money?  Of course not.  More is always better.

Being involved in the Tour de Cure is a wonderful outlet for me … it’s a very worthwhile cause, gets me on my bike on a regular basis, and has introduced me to a lot of really great people.

I’m also enjoying getting Team RED transformed into something a little more cohesive.  While we haven’t been able to get as many training rides organized (mainly due to weather), I’m pleased with what we’ve done so far.  I’m hoping to keep Team RED organized as a group through the year so we can continue pulling together as a real team next year.

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Tour de Cure 2012 Followup

The ride is over and I did my 35 miles.

I had a good time, got lots of exercise, met some interesting people … and got involved in a cause that both directly and indirectly effects me.

I raised $3380 … which made me an “Ultimate Champion for Diabetes”.  I got a fancy shmancy gold medal and, theoretically, a champions riding jersey (although that didn’t arrive on time, so I wore a red riders jersey).  The medal was kind of silly, but I would have liked to have been able to wear the jersey.

Riding helped me in many ways … there’s the obvious cardio benefit, which helps keep my diabetes under control, but it also helped me deal with the stress of my mom’s illness and passing.  About three weeks before the ride, my co-worker Marty and I were planning on doing a 35 mile ride (following the Tour de cure route), when my mom was moved into the hospice unit at St. James Hospital.  He asked if I wanted to cancel our ride, but I told him that I needed to ride.

I’d like to thank everyone who sponsored me on the ride … your support is greatly appreciated.

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Tour de Cure – Support Diabetes Research

I am participating in the American Diabetes Association’s annual Tour de Cure event this year. I am asking you to join me in the effort to Stop Diabetes by making a contribution to support my ride.

The dollars we raise for the American Diabetes Association fund research, provide services, and give voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. I believe in the work they do, and I invite you to join me in this effort. More than 25 million Americans live with diabetes, and your support can and will make a difference in their lives.

Please help by making a donation – large or small – to support the work of the American Diabetes Association. Or, why not join me on the day of the event? Become a participant and side by side, as teammates, we can work together to Stop Diabetes!

Whatever you can give will help! I greatly appreciate your support and will keep you posted on my progress.

Thank you for making a generous contribution to this cause that is so important to me!