What is the Ride?
The Ride to Cure Diabetes is a unique and exciting way to fight diabetes. Participants choose from one of five Ride locations and bike for their choice of distance (usually between 30 and 100+ miles) to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF).
What is the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International?
The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF) is the leading charitable funder and advocate of type 1 (juvenile) diabetes research worldwide. The mission of JDRF is to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly, and can be fatal. Until a cure is found, people with type 1 diabetes have to test their blood sugar and give themselves insulin injections multiple times or use a pump - each day, every day of their lives. And even with that intensive care, insulin is not a cure for diabetes, nor does it prevent its eventual and devastating complications, which may include kidney failure, blindness, heart disease, stroke, and amputation.
Since its founding in 1970 by parents of children with type 1 diabetes, JDRF has awarded more than $1.3 billion to diabetes research, including more than $156 million in FY2008. In FY2008, the Foundation funded more than 1,000 centers, grants in laboratories, hospitals, and industry, and fellowships in 22 countries.
JDRF is a 501 (c)(3) tax exempt organization. All donations to JDRF and its chapters and branches are tax-deductible. JDRF consistently receives top rankings from the American Institute of Philanthropy and other independent sources that rate charitable giving.
Who can ride?
Anyone who is 18 years of age or older on the date of the Ride (Riders between 13 and 18 can participate with the signed consent and participation of a parent or guardian), who can raise the minimum fundraising requirement in pledges.
Isn't it hard to meet the fundraising requirement?
Not according to many of our past riders. Once you start contacting people, you will be surprised how quickly the money (and the admiration) rolls in. And, based on their experiences, we have tips that will help you bring in pledges more easily.
Are there any other costs involved?
No. The $100 registration fee counts toward your fundraising requirement. JDRF covers your expenses, including your flight and transportation of your bike to and from the Ride site, weekend accommodations, and meals. We also provide maintenance, support, and appropriate snacks and drinks during the Ride, and even throw a couple of parties for you and your Ride buddies.
What kind of training should I do?
Our national head coach, Tim St. Clair, has excellent training suggestions for preparing for these amazing Rides. Additionally, you can check with your JDRF chapter office to find out if they provide a local coach. Our coaches will help you adopt a training schedule and pace that is right for you.
How much time do I have to commit to this?
How much time you train is completely up to you. Your chapter coach can help you determine the best time commitment for your fitness level. If you are a novice, most coaches will recommend you begin training at least 1 to 3 months before the Ride and ride at least twice a week to prepare yourself.
What if I can't finish the Ride?
If you cannot go on at any point in the Ride, one of the many support vehicles that will be cruising the route can pick you up and take you back. Remember that there will be rest stops set up approximately every 15 miles, so if you are feeling tired, you can rest, eat an energy bar, drink a sports drink, and pick up the Ride where you left off. This is not a race, it's a Ride, and all riders are encouraged to ride at their own pace.
But then haven't I let down my donors?
Veteran rider Mark Rick tried for 100 miles and made 75. When he told his donors about it, he reports, "Most of them said, '75 miles? That's great! Good work!'" Most of your donors will admire you for having the guts to even show up.
