The American Diabetes Association is challenging riders to be part of a bicycle tour on June 8, 2014 at the Durham Fairgrounds in Durham, CT to help raise funds to change the future of diabetes and help stop this devastating disease.

Cyclists from around the region will gather to participate in one of five routes at the event. They will join more than 50,000 other cyclists and volunteers from across the country. Individuals and teams composed of co-workers, family and friends are taking the ride of their life by helping raise funds for the nearly 26 million Americans with diabetes. Tour de Cure is designed for anyone from the occasional to the experienced cyclist with routes from the 7-mile family ride to 100-mile ride. The routes all feature rest stops with food to fuel the journey and volunteers to cheer riders on.

“Many people will participate in the Tour de Cure for the stimulating competition, camaraderie and physical cycling challenge. But the real reward comes in knowing that every mile they ride and every dollar they raise brings us that much closer to stopping this disease that affects 360,000 adults in our community,” said Chris Boynton, American Diabetes Association’s New England Office. “With diabetes growing at near-epidemic proportions, the need for funds has never been so great.” he added.

The Tour de Cure raises funds through registration fees and pledges collected by the cyclists. To register, cyclists or volunteers can call the American Diabetes Association at 203-639-0385 ext. 3535 or visit us at www.diabetes.org/cttourdecure.

The Connecticut Tour de Cure is sponsored nationally by Gold’s Gym, Lilly Diabetes, Bumble Bee Foods, Primal Wear, Go Macro and locally by Materion, Bristol-Myers Squibb, AstraZeneca, Aetna, Novo Nordisk , Middletown Press and Subaru of New England. Each Tour de Cure features a variety of routes. The Connecticut Tour de Cure routes include:  100 Mile – This route will challenge even avid cyclist. Explore some of Connecticut’s historical communities and enjoy coastal views, a ferry crossing and the option to climb a giant hill.  62 Mile – This challenging route crosses the Connecticut River on a ferry and includes scenic countryside views. It is the perfect choice for the intermediate to advance cyclist.  31 Mile – This route travels through picturesque Connecticut landscapes with beautiful views and scenic roads. It is a moderate route for the intermediate or beginner cyclist.  15 Mile – Great for avid and newer cyclists alike, this route will travel just outside of Durham and feature some beautiful countryside views. It is accessible to all ages and fitness levels.  7 Mile Family Fun – Great for families who wish to participate in the Tour de Cure and experience the  The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to Stop Diabetes and its deadly consequences and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

For more information, please visit www.diabetes.org/cttourdecure.