Looking outside it’s hard to believe we finished our last ride just 5 weeks ago. Our Minnesota JDRF riders were represented at all 5 ride locations this year with our largest group participating in La Crosse and Sonoma rides. We had a total of 82 Minnesota riders raising over $323,000 to date with more donations coming in. Congratulations to all our riders for your commitment to fundraise to make an impact on T1D research.

Our local top fundraiser was David Vandersteen raising $20,235. Christine Jakubowski was our second-place fundraiser raising $10,430 and third place fundraiser going to Andrew Greenseid raising $9,299. A big shout out to Lindsey Redepenning for being our top ride recruiter introducing new riders to this inspiring program. Nationally riders have raised over $10 million this year. Our Minnesota riders were recognized with our Lindsey’s Biker Gang highlighted at the La Crosse Starting Line Ceremonies and our new Minnesota Ride Coach, Spencer Crittendon, kicked off the Opening Ceremonies at the Saratoga Ride.

Ride weekend is a big highlight of the ride program but it’s the training rides and social gatherings throughout the entire year that make it extra special. Susie Schuh tells everyone, “The JDRF Ride creates treasured friendships and life long memories that will change your life. Be ready to share of the best experiences of your life!”

If you would like to learn more about the JDRF Ride, riders are hosting a JDRF Ride Info Night Kick Off Social on Tuesday, January 14 at 6:30 pm at Joe Senser’s in Bloomington. If you can’t attend and want to learn more, contact Patty Johnson at pjohnson@jdrf.org or 952-236-3455 and visit ride.jdrf.org.

“The spirit and determination of the JDRF Ride family is amazing, and it gives us HOPE that we WILL find a CURE!” Rider, Angie Peters