A Two-Day Endurance Challenge for Spina Bifida
Date: Friday, June 12 through Saturday, June 13, 2026
Location: Edinburg to San Antonio, Texas (Start: TownPlace Marriott, Edinburg, TX | Finish: Rancho El Chema, San Antonio, TX)
Event Information
The SB250 is the premier annual road cycling event for Suzannah Smiles, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds and awareness for children impacted by Spina Bifida. This ultra-endurance event takes participants on a 250-mile journey through the heart of South Texas. Known for its intense summer heat and significant distance, the SB250 is a test of both physical and mental fortitude, bringing together a community of riders committed to making a difference with every rotation of their wheels.
Presented by Apache Industrial, the 2026 edition of the ride emphasizes safety, camaraderie, and high-impact fundraising. Proceeds from the event support research and provide essential resources for families navigating the challenges of Spina Bifida. Because of the extreme nature of the route, the organizers provide extensive resources for training, preparation, and rookie support to ensure every cyclist is equipped to reach the finish line safely.
Ride Distances
The SB250 is a point-to-point endurance event covering a total of 250 miles over two consecutive days:
- Day 1 (June 12): Riders depart from Edinburg, TX, navigating the vast landscapes of South Texas as they push northward.
- Day 2 (June 13): The journey continues toward the final destination at Rancho El Chema in San Antonio, TX, culminating in a grand finish line celebration.
Support and Logistics
The event is fully supported to help riders manage the “grueling South Texas heat.” Logistics are professionally managed to allow participants to focus entirely on their performance and the cause:
- Official Gear: Every registration includes the 2026 SB250 event jersey. Participants who register after April 26 will receive their kits via mail in mid-August.
- Refreshment Stations: Regularly spaced rest stops provide the necessary hydration and nutrition to sustain riders through high temperatures and long hours in the saddle.
- Lodging and Transport: The event website provides a dedicated guide for hotel accommodations in Edinburg and San Antonio, as well as transportation options for riders and their bicycles.
- Rookie Support: For first-time ultra-endurance riders, the “Rookie Riders” program offers tailored advice and mentorship to help navigate the complexities of a 250-mile event.
Fundraising and Training
Fundraising is the heartbeat of the SB250. Riders are encouraged to share their journey with their networks to meet specific goals that benefit Spina Bifida research. To prepare for the physical demands of June in South Texas, the organizers provide a “Training and Prep” resource covering endurance building, essential gear, and road safety.
Registration
Prospective participants should review the sizing charts for the mandatory jersey before completing the online registration. Early registration is encouraged to ensure timely delivery of event gear and to maximize fundraising time.
Registration Link: https://www.bikereg.com/sb250
Website
For the full event schedule, detailed route maps, and specific training resources, please visit the official SB250 website:
Website: https://www.sb-250.org/
Contact Information
For official inquiries regarding the 2026 SB250, including sponsorship or mechanical support questions, please contact the Suzannah Smiles team via their website:
Website Contact: https://www.sb-250.org/
