Nearly 24 million individuals in the U.S. are diagnosed with diabetes every year. Locally, diabetes is the fastest growing disease in Tennessee with over 40,000 in Chattanooga and surrounding areas. The American Diabetes Association is requesting participation in their signature fundraising event, the Chattanooga Tour de Cure on Saturday, May 15.
The Tour de Cure is a one day cycling event geared to all cyclists from the novice rider to the avid cyclist. Companies create teams and families participate all over East Tennessee and North Georgia showing their love for cycling and their dedication to finding a cure for diabetes.
There are three routes to choose from including a 25 (includes a 12 mile family ride for the novice riders and children), 62 mile and 100 mile ride through the scenic back roads of North Georgia.
The ride will start off at the First Tennessee Pavilion in Downtown Chattanooga and take cyclists into the back country roads of North Georgia. Each route will loop back to the start/finish line to recharge with a meal, massage, music and kid's activities.
The routes will be fully supported this year with rest stops, SAG vehicles, bike mechanics, EMTs and a full time ambulance.
Corporate and media sponsors to date include: Walgreens, Memorial Healthcare System, Memorial Wound Healing Center, ESPN 105.1, The Pulse, Brewer Broadcasting, Pulse News 95.3, Comcast, Owen Cyclery, East Ridge Bicycles and Coca Cola.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information contact Ben Bass at 865 524-7868 X: 3342 or bbass@diabetes.org.
Additionally, if you have diabetes or want to support someone who does, consider joining the Red Rider Team. Register at www.diabetes.org/tour.