Riders throughout Colorado came together for an outstanding 2017 season. With five stunning locations to choose from, Amelia Island, FL, Loveland, CO, La Crosse, WI, Saratoga Springs, NY, and Tucson, AZ, the Rocky Mountain Chapter had a record breaking 65 Riders sign up to participate. Together, these riders raised over $211,000 for type one diabetes research.

“Last year, we had 15 people participate in the Ride program. Seeing the numbers grow to 65 has been incredible!” says Ruth Hendren, JDRF Development Director and ride participant.

Part of the success was thanks to the addition of the Loveland Ride to Cure Diabetes. From August 24-27, over 450 Riders from across the country traveled to Loveland, CO for the inaugural Ride. Cyclists enjoyed beautiful weather as they cycled as far as 100 miles through the foothills of the Rockies—all while raising $1.8 million. “The ride is a unique weekend full of activities,” says Hendren. “Whether you choose to ride locally, or travel to one of the destination locations, the JDRF Ride is an outstanding program. I have enjoyed riding for two years now, and look forward to participating again next year.”

JDRF riders will be heading to Tucson, AZ from November 16-19 to participate in the last ride of the season. Follow JDRF Rocky Mountain on Facebook to wish them luck. Finally, JDRF will be celebrating the 2017 Ride season and kicking off the 2018 efforts on November 30^th at Platt Park Brewing Company. All riders from this last year, and individuals interested in learning more about the Ride program are encouraged to attend. For more information, email Rachel LeClere at rleclere@jdrf.org.

About the JDRF Ride:

The JDRF Ride to Cure Diabetes is a charitable bike ride that to date has raised over $38 million for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. The Ride gives cyclists of all ages and skill levels the opportunity fundraise for JDRF, the global leader in T1D research.

The JDRF Ride isn’t just a bike ride: it’s an event where hundreds of riders come together from all over the world to make new friendships, experience the unparalleled camaraderie of the Ride community and raise money to find a cure for T1D.

Dates and locations for the 2018 rides will be announced soon.