Together, we made up the largest team at the event, and Megan Darrow of ADA PNW recognized us at the finish for raising $13,200 — more than any other team this year. Part of that total came from matching donations TWBC provided for our club riders, and that support meant a lot. Thank you. We were also fortunate to have two platinum sponsors behind the team: Esther Min DDS in University Place and Northwest Tri and Bike in Enumclaw. Thank you both.
The Day on the Bike
We started at Bothell Landing Park, which made for a beautiful and well-organized launch. There were a couple of official routes to choose from:
- The 55.6-mile route dropped down the east side of Lake Washington, looped around Mercer Island, and headed into Seattle to pick up the Burke-Gilman Trail back to Bothell. 3,077 feet of climbing — a serious day out.
- The 23.7-mile route went south to the 520 corridor, then turned back north toward Woodinville and over to the start. 1,411 feet of elevation.
- A few people chose to do a route that avoided the roads and was flat — a 20-mile out-and-back to Marymoor Park.
To me, the biggest thing we accomplished wasn't the miles or even the dollars raised — it was the message. People in their 60s, 70s, and 80s out there challenging themselves on bikes, having a great day together, and making it look completely normal. Because it is. Our matching jerseys, sponsored by Konvergent Wealth Management in Gig Harbor, carried that message in big letters across every back: "Age is Just a Gear Change." Hard to miss when 28 of us roll past.
I was honored to serve as Community Event Chair for the Tour de Cure this year, and I can tell you firsthand — it's a well-run event from start to finish. The ADA PNW team puts in real work to make the day great for riders.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Some news on next year: because of construction at Bothell Landing Park, the ride won't be able to start there in 2027. The Tour de Cure staff is scouting new starting locations now. I'm staying on the planning committee, so I'll have a voice in route selection — and I'll be pushing for a long route that's a bit less demanding than this year's 55-miler. An additional route more accessible to a wider range of riders.
Whatever the routes look like, please plan on joining us next year. Join the Cycling Over Sixty team if you're at our level of maturity — or form your own TWBC team if you're not quite there yet. Either way, come ride with us. The event is well managed, the cause is real, and the day is a good one.
One more thing worth saying: with recent changes in funding for health research, supporting the American Diabetes Association feels more important than it has in a long time. Diabetes touches an enormous number of families, and the ADA's work toward better treatment and ultimately a cure depends on events like this one. Every dollar matters.
Thank you to everyone who rode, donated, cheered, or shared the message. I hope to see you at the 2027 Tour de Cure.