BY Stephanie Specchio
KEUKA LAKE--Bicyclists are on track to raise thousands of dollars for the United Way of the Southern Tier on Aug. 5, as they take to the roads for the annual Tour de Keuka. The event also helps to raise awareness about the work that the four-star rated non-profit organization does for community members.
“This is a nice event, and it builds brand awareness for the United Way,” said Lois Wilson, director of communications and community engagement. “Tour de Keuka gives us the chance to speak directly to the community and share what we do. We support early childhood education, seniors, and basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter.”
Bicyclists select a course (45-, 60-, or 100-miles), pay a registration fee, and commit to fundraising at least $150 in addition to a registration fee. Those who raise $300 or more in donations also receive a special 2023 Tour de Keuka cycling jersey. In addition, riders receive an event t-shirt and a finisher award.
The ride began in 2005 when husband and wife team Randy and the late Jennifer Rhoads became motivated to raise money to support research designed to cure diabetes. Randy focused primarily on the pre-ride work with Jennifer handling the day-of duties so that he could ride. In 2015, the beneficiary shifted to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, a local organization with an infrastructure capable of managing the event and compatible mission.
“This is really a feeding event,” said Rhoads. “People riding the 100-mile route are going to burn between 5,000 and 6,000 calories. They need to be fed.”
In 2021, when the Food Bank decided to move in a different direction, Rhoads met with the Tour de Keuka’s three-member Board of Directors (Rhoads, Blaine Mayes, and Annis Fadul) and researched potential beneficiaries.
“The United Way of the Southern Tier has a broad impact and has the skills to run a large-scale fundraising event. Ultimately, we have transferred leadership of this event twice, and it continues to be a viable event. We’re very fortunate.”
Rhoads is also happy that the event retains a connection to its original mission.
“Exercise is important to diabetes,” said Rhoads. “This event is all about exercise and enjoying what our area has to offer.”
The ride begins at the Hammondsport Fire Station at 7 a.m. or 9 a.m. depending on the length of the ride. The 100-mile course goes around Keuka Lake with the addition of extra mileage north of Branchport and into Benton and also east to Bradford before going through Bath. The 60-mile includes going around the lake with the extra portion north of Branchport, while the 45-mile ride is just around the lake.
KEUKA LAKE--Bicyclists are on track to raise thousands of dollars for the United Way of the Southern Tier on Aug. 5, as they take to the roads for the annual Tour de Keuka. The event also helps to raise awareness about the work that the four-star rated non-profit organization does for community members.
“This is a nice event, and it builds brand awareness for the United Way,” said Lois Wilson, director of communications and community engagement. “Tour de Keuka gives us the chance to speak directly to the community and share what we do. We support early childhood education, seniors, and basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter.”
Bicyclists select a course (45-, 60-, or 100-miles), pay a registration fee, and commit to fundraising at least $150 in addition to a registration fee. Those who raise $300 or more in donations also receive a special 2023 Tour de Keuka cycling jersey. In addition, riders receive an event t-shirt and a finisher award.
The ride began in 2005 when husband and wife team Randy and the late Jennifer Rhoads became motivated to raise money to support research designed to cure diabetes. Randy focused primarily on the pre-ride work with Jennifer handling the day-of duties so that he could ride. In 2015, the beneficiary shifted to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, a local organization with an infrastructure capable of managing the event and compatible mission.
“This is really a feeding event,” said Rhoads. “People riding the 100-mile route are going to burn between 5,000 and 6,000 calories. They need to be fed.”
In 2021, when the Food Bank decided to move in a different direction, Rhoads met with the Tour de Keuka’s three-member Board of Directors (Rhoads, Blaine Mayes, and Annis Fadul) and researched potential beneficiaries.
“The United Way of the Southern Tier has a broad impact and has the skills to run a large-scale fundraising event. Ultimately, we have transferred leadership of this event twice, and it continues to be a viable event. We’re very fortunate.”
Rhoads is also happy that the event retains a connection to its original mission.
“Exercise is important to diabetes,” said Rhoads. “This event is all about exercise and enjoying what our area has to offer.”
The ride begins at the Hammondsport Fire Station at 7 a.m. or 9 a.m. depending on the length of the ride. The 100-mile course goes around Keuka Lake with the addition of extra mileage north of Branchport and into Benton and also east to Bradford before going through Bath. The 60-mile includes going around the lake with the extra portion north of Branchport, while the 45-mile ride is just around the lake.
