The Team LIVESTRONG Challenge Austin 2012 invites you to join their ride on October 19-21, 2012 starting at Palmer Events Center – 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX
We were lucky enough to be granted an interview with Matt Florio of Team LIVESTRONG Challenge Austin to ask some questions about their upcoming ride.
How long has the event been around?
This is the 16th year of the event.
What was the motivation behind starting the tour and who benefits from it?
Lance Armstrong started the ride, originally called the Race for the Roses, in 1997 to raise money for cancer survivors and their families in Austin. The event has blossomed as the Foundation has grown and matured. The money raised goes back to LIVESTRONG and is used to fund programs and services for people affected by cancer. Thanks to our generous sponsors who cover the production costs, 100% of money raised goes back towards the programs.
How have they been able to utilize the funds in the past?
To support local, national and international programs that are available to cancer survivors. These can include Navigation services, health & wellness programs, fertility preservation, insurance issues, emotional support or clinical trial options. We work with various organizations who help us fulfill and run these programs.
Do you hav a map of the start facility showing registration point, parking, all toilets, water/snacks, start line?
A map of the venue can be found at www.livestrong.org/
Logistically, can you give us an idea how many volunteers, finances, and
Over 300 volunteers and about a year of planning to successfully run an event like this.
What was the most rewarding experience throughout the years hosting this event?
Seeing cancer survivors finish the ride. For most it is a milestone in their recovery/treatment and huge accomplishment. Some of these people were told that they would have 6 months to live and then the next year they finish a 100 mile bike ride with other like them. It’s a very moving scene to witness. Each survivor is handed a yellow rose at the finish line, a trend we have kept every year at all of our events since the original race for the Roses.
What is the average number of participants per year? How many riders do you assist during the average race?
We average about 2,500-2,800 riders. This year we currently have over 3,300 and we are shooting for 4,000. We are a fully supported ride with SAG and PowerStops loaded with nutrition, water, mechanics, medics and restrooms.
What was the most unforgettable experience or worst accident you had in this event?
Standing by the Finish line at the end of the day and watching the last riders come in. Some have been out on the course for 8-9 hours and won’t stop until they cross the finish. It’s truly a matter of will and determination that get’s them through it. I am just happy to know that we continue to be a symbol of hope and inspiration for people.
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
Be an advocate for cancer survivors, volunteer with us, fundraise, donate, spread the word of the work we do.
What is your role in this race and to the success of it?
I work with all of our participants and answer their questions about the ride and the logistics of the event. I also play a role in encouraging and assisting their fundraising throughout the year and leading up to the event.
Do you ride and if yes, what kind of bicycle do you ride and what is your favorite route in your area? Which are your top 3 favorite MUST DO rides in Texas (besides your own)?
Yes, I like to ride on the north east side of town by Decker Lake.
Top 3 Rides
1. LBJ 100 Ride
2. Real Ale Ride
3. Shiner Gasp
If you had to come up with a David Letterman style top 10 about the race, what would it read like?
The great thing about our event is that we fully encompass our participants in the LIVESTRONG experience. People should leave our event knowing a little more about the Foundation and the work we do. Hopefully we empower them to take action and lead some efforts on our behalf in their own communities. We promise a good ride, good food and a great time!
Thanks Matt for this quick interview and we hope to catch everyone at the ride!
Click here to view the event details of the Team LIVESTRONG Challenge Austin 2012
