On Sunday, March 24, 2024, the anticipation in the air was palpable as the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Tour de Cure rolled into Lake Nona. At 7:00 am, three dedicated TeamOne members gathered, their spirits high and enthusiasm contagious. Every year, this event is a celebration of community and commitment, and this year was no different. As they approached the venue, the team was greeted by the cheerful sounds of laughter and excitement echoing throughout the area. Volunteers moved about energetically, setting up tents adorned with an array of merchandise and informative displays. The Breakfast Cafe was a beacon of warmth, filling the morning air with the irresistible aroma of breakfast sandwiches, fresh bagels with cream cheese, juicy fruit, and steaming cups of coffee that welcomed participants back for yet another inspiring day.
While the weather forecast suggested an overcast sky with a sticky humidity of 80%, spirits remained undeterred as the temperature climbed from a cool 64 degrees to an anticipated sweltering 93. The notorious Florida winds, known for adding a dynamic challenge to the event, were present yet again, blowing gently at 5 to 10 mph with gusts reaching 15 mph. Participants donned their gear, ready to brave the heat and wind, united by a shared purpose to raise awareness and funds for diabetes research and advocacy. With the sun hidden behind clouds, the team felt fortuitous, drawing energy from both the community around them and the mission at hand. As the ride commenced, their hearts raced in anticipation of the day ahead—a blend of camaraderie, challenge, and a collective drive to make a difference in the fight against diabetes.
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The Ride
TeamOne’s participation in the Tour de Cure event was a testament to their spirit and camaraderie, with one group tackling the 10-mile course while the other bravely set out on the more challenging 25-mile stretch. This was a particularly special occasion, marking the second time the team donned their striking “Team of Champions” jerseys, which had become a symbol of their determination and unity. The vibrant jerseys not only highlighted their presence on the course but also attracted positive attention from fellow participants, fostering a communal atmosphere among riders. As the cyclists gathered for a photo opportunity near the starting line, they exuded a palpable sense of pride, readiness, and excitement, embodying the essence of teamwork that defines TeamOne.
Each year brings a unique energy to the event, shaped by the diverse group of participants who come together with a common purpose. Despite the varying goals for distance and pace, one element remains constant: the deep bond shared by the team members, all committed to conquering the challenges ahead. With the sound of cheering volunteers fueling their motivation, it didn’t matter whether they were on the 10, 25, or the more demanding 50-mile route. The team set off in unison, riding side by side during the initial warm-up phase, which covered 10% of the course. As the cyclists transitioned into their respective routes, the atmosphere shifted from anticipation to determination, with the day evolving from a chilly morning to ideal riding conditions. The wind picked up, adding an exhilarating challenge, but TeamOne’s camaraderie ensured that every rider felt supported and empowered as they embraced the journey ahead.
10-Mile Group
Beginning at 9:30 am under clear skies, the 10-mile group saw changes in attendance, culminating in a single dedicated rider, Diana. Embracing a steady pace of 10-12 mph, Diana embarked on her journey along a route marked by gentle turns through the neighborhood. The course was aesthetically charming, adorned with tree-lined streets and notable landmarks such as the VA Hospital, the Adventure Park, and Boxi Park, allowing her to soak in the scenery as well as engage in pleasant conversations.
The ride was deliberately designed to be a relaxed affair, encouraging participants to enjoy the experience rather than compete against the clock. With light traffic to contend with, Diana was able to focus on her surroundings and the leisurely pace, embodying the very essence of the 10-mile group. Her finish time of just under an hour was met with cheers and applause, and she was greeted by smiling volunteers who handed out finisher medals—a tangible symbol of her achievement.
After crossing the finish line, Diana eagerly awaited the arrival of the 25-mile group. Their camaraderie was a heartwarming reminder of the community that biking can cultivate, even when the numbers dwindle.
25-Mile Group
The 25-mile group, consisting of four determined riders, Dawn, Jodel, Kwesi, and Z embarked on their journey with enthusiasm and camaraderie. The first leg of their ride brought them to a scenic stop at 12.5 miles near Rummel Road in St. Cloud, where they took a brief ten-minute break to recharge and chat about their progress. This pit stop was essential, not just for catching their breath but for reinforcing the bond between them as they shared their thoughts and motivations for the ride ahead. Once back in the saddle, the next five miles whisked by quickly, powered not only by their eagerness to complete the course but also by the invigorating challenge presented by the wind.
As they made their way further along the route, the environment played a significant role in their experience. The wind, initially a formidable foe coming from the southwest, seemed intent on testing their resolve. However, instead of being discouraged, the team embraced the struggle. With each push against the headwind, they built resilience and determination, transforming what could have been an exhausting experience into a valuable workout. The tide turned when, for the next 16 miles, the wind shifted to their backs, acting as a supportive push that allowed the group to accelerate to speeds of 18 to 20 mph. With the finish line approaching, excitement pulsed through them, and they rode with renewed vigor, each pedal stroke reinforcing their sense of accomplishment.
Crossing the finish line filled the team with an overwhelming pride, considering that life had kept them from extensive preparation for this ride. They grabbed their hard-earned medals and made their way to the Champions tent, eager to celebrate their achievement and enjoy a well-deserved lunch. The 10-mile group had already arrived and was waiting patiently for their fellow riders, a perfect example of the spirit of community within the event. The shared meal was a culmination of their efforts, not only satiating their hunger but also serving as a reminder of how they had come together as a team, overcoming challenges and enjoying each other’s company. They laughed, shared stories of their ride, and basked in the satisfaction that they had not only completed their journey but had also strengthened their bonds along the way. 🙂
Special Call Out
This year, we want to take a moment to honor some remarkable individuals whose contributions, though not marked by physical presence on the ride, were invaluable to our cause. Among those deserving of special recognition are Bob Fecteau and Seresaa Setzer-Cesareo. Life’s circumstances may have prevented them from joining us on the road, yet their unwavering commitment to our mission shone through as they successfully raised donations, earning them the title of Champions. Their efforts exemplify the spirit of our community, demonstrating that advocacy isn’t solely about being present; it’s also about making a difference from afar.
In addition to these dedicated individuals, our team was bolstered by the incredible efforts of E. Jerome Thompson. Not only did he proudly ride as part of TeamOne on the challenging 50-mile course, but he also harnessed his fundraising prowess to amplify our impact. Dr. Thompson’s enthusiasm and dedication not only helped him rise to Champion status but also significantly contributed to the overall success of our team’s fundraising goals. Together, both the silent champions working behind the scenes and those braving the elements on the ride remind us that every effort counts, helping to drive us forward in our mission.
How We Helped
This marks the ADA’s Tour de Cure 33rd anniversary and TeamOne’s 18th consecutive year of support and 9th consecutive year as the “Team of Champions”!
| TeamOne | ADA Totals |
|---|---|
| Achieved to Date: $9,261 Number of Champions: 8  Corporate Teams: 9 Overall Teams: 22 Number of Riders: 8 Average per team member: $1,158 |
Achieved to Date: $775,720 Number of Champions: 94 Number of Corporate Teams: 14 Number of all Teams: 54 Number of Riders: 750 Average per team member: $1,034 |
Other Information:
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TeamOne’s Part in the Tour de Cure:
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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 | 10 Miles | 25 Miles |
|---|---|---|
| SAIC | Zrain Olivencia |
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| Family / Friends | Bob Fecteau Diana Riley Seresaa Setzer |
Dawn M. Antanasio Jodel Jerome Kwesi Johnson |
| Notes | 1 First-time ADA event riders 2 Very close to joining the other Champions3 Also will ride 63 miles in St. Petersburg for ADA Tampa 4 Virtual Rider (a team member who raised funds but couldn’t ride)  Red Rider Tour de Cure Jersey Champions |
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What a year it’s been! As fundraising becomes increasingly challenging, navigating the financial landscape requires creativity, resilience, and an unwavering belief in our mission. Despite the obstacles, we’ve managed to defy the odds and continue our impactful work in the community, a feat made possible only through the unwavering support of our generous donors. These individuals aren’t just benefactors; they are integral members of our extended team, whose contributions have allowed us to earn the coveted “Team of Champions” title for the ninth consecutive year!
Who could have predicted such a remarkable achievement amid the swirling uncertainty? Our generous donors belief in us fuels our passion and drive, reminding us that our collective efforts can overcome even the toughest of circumstances. This journey is a testament to the power of collaboration and the profound impact of generosity, and we remain deeply grateful for every supporter who stands with us. Together, we not only aim to reach our goals, but we also create a legacy of hope and positive change in the world.
Thank you,
TeamOne
