The annual Orlando ADA Tour de Cure Champions Reception was held Thursday, March 22, 2018, in honor of all the hard work the community had done for the upcoming ADA Tour de Cure ride. Fundraisers that achieve the $1000 mark are considered “Champions”. This invitation-only event recognizes these Champions, key volunteers, and sponsors.
Three years in a row now, Jaguar of Orlando has sponsored this event, hosting it in their beautiful showroom. Guests were treated to an evening of music, socializing, and food.
Champions
Each year the ADA recognizes participants who earn Champion status. This year marks a special accomplishment: 178 Champions to date. Out of the $831,000 raised so far for the Tour de Cure, $380,000 of that is by these Champions!
Earle E. Richards Red Rider Award
The Earle E. Richards Red Rider Award recognizes special Red Rider Champions. Earle Richards lost his battle with diabetes, but his name and memory are dear to everyone’s hearts. Bib #51 is reserved in his honor for the recipient of this award each year. Heather Nagy, the committee member, introduced this award with a bit of background, and of course her wonderful words of praise. The recipient, David W. Staples, was recognized for his amazing contributions as a 4 year Champion, Planning Committee member, and Volunteer. David also suffers from Type 2 Diabetes. He has not let this disease stop him! It was a moving experience to not only remember Earle this way but to see how David continues to fight. This kind of dedication inspires our team to keep endeavoring to do more in support of this cause.
Special Recognition Award
The Planning Committee gave special recognition to Heather Nagy and David Nagy. These two volunteers have supported for many years. This year they lead the committee. Having moved to Florida several years ago, they became not only participants in the ride but also active participants on the planning committee. Heather and David’s exceptional contributions help make this event a wonderful community event in support of fighting diabetes.
TeamOne Smashing Records
This year TeamOne so far has 20 Champions 
Champions ( Bill, Bob, Catherine, Dawn, Diana, Gail, Jimmy, Jodel, John L., Kelly, Kenesha, Kevin, Lee, Ruben, Seresaa, Shauna, Shawn, Susie, Tom, and Z) for Diabetes in the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Lake Nona Tour de Cure!
TeamOne gathers riders from many areas. As in the past, several of TeamOne’s riders traveled from far distances, and much colder climates, to support the Tour de Cure and ride!
New riders are always a joy to have. This year TeamOne welcomed 2 new members (first-time riders) who also made Champion: Catherine and Shauna. To become a Champion is recognized as a great accomplishment! Becoming a Champion for the first time is spectacular! TeamOne is thrilled to have these new riders embrace the quest to find a cure for diabetes.
With only a few days left until the big day, excitement is growing. The rider, runners, and walkers are looking forward to Sunday and an incredible day of riding, running, walking, camaraderie, and fun with maybe a little of that Florida wind thrown in!
Who is TeamOne
Read the summaries below about the event in TeamOne members’ own words by selecting their name link below (more to follow).
| Affiliation | 5K Run/Walk | 25 Miles | 50 miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAIC | Bill Truett |
John Legarreta Kelley Boutilier Kevin Belkofer Susie Schmitt |
Bob Fecteau Diana Riley Lee England 4 Ruben Herrera Shawn DeLuca Shauna Brookshier Tom Wofford Zrain Olivencia 3 |
| Family / Friends | Kenesha Osbourne |
Gail Tromp Jimmy Vasil  Seresaa Setzer 3 |
Catherine Aldea 1,3 Dawn Atanasio Jodel Jerome |
| Notes | 1 First time ADA event riders 2 Very close to joining the other Champions
3 Also will ride 40 miles in St. Petersburg for ADA Tampa4 Virtual Rider (a team member who raised funds but couldn’t ride) Red Rider: A person who rides with diabetes. Tour de Cure Jersey
Champions for Diabetes |
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