Champion’s Reception – ADA Tour de Cure 2019

The annual Orlando ADA Tour de Cure Champions Reception was held Thursday, March 28, 2019, in honor of all the hard work the community had done for the upcoming ADA Tour de Cure ride. Fundraisers that achieve the $1,000 mark are considered “Champions”. This invitation-only event recognized these Champions, key volunteers, and sponsors.

This year the event was hosted at M Bar. With over 60 classic cars displayed at M Bar, the venue made for a memorable evening. Over 220 Champions and more than 2,000 participants this year contributed to the $1.1 million raised. This was the highest amount yet in the history of the central Florida event.

Several special recognitions were made …

Heather Nagy presented Juan Santiago with the Earl Richards award. This award goes to a champion red rider every year in memory of Ear.
TeamOne was recognized once again as a Team of Champions for the fourth year in a row. It is the only team to have achieved that status.
The Lake Nona community has supported this event for 10 years now.
Another special recognition went to Yvette Sanborn as a 20-year veteran volunteer. This year Yvette will be a part of the Board.
Dr. Len Archer was honored as a 12-year champion. He dedicates all his rides to his wife, Nicole, who suffers from Type 2 diabetes.
Additional honorees included Doug Unger, David Sanborn, and Bob Lipscomb.

Rock de Marco, a well-known performance artist, and speed painter donated artwork to a live auction. The lively bidding war garnered $2,000 more for the fight against diabetes.

With great food and drink, the evening came to an end. With just a few days left before the big ride, everyone left happy, excited, and ready to make this a fabulous ride.

Champions

Each year the ADA recognizes participants who earn Champions status. This year marks a special accomplishment: 17 Champions to date. Out of the $1,158,448 raised so far for the Tour de Cure, $21,182 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 the ADA 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 the 4th consecutive year TeamOne has 17 Champions and is label the “Team of Champions” 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: Tom Eldridge and Summer Knight. 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

We have evolved into a tight-knit group of cyclists from past and present members paving a path for future members. Read the summaries below about the event in TeamOne members’ own words by selecting their linked name below.

Bob Fecteau, Catherine Aldea, Diana Riley, Jimmy Vasil, Jodel Jerome, John Legarreta, Jonathan Nunes, Lee England, Ron Hemphill, Seresaa Setzer, Shauna Brookshier, Shawn Deluca, Summer Knight, Susan Schmitt, Tom Eldridge, Tom Wofford, and Z