Age Knows No Boundaries When It Comes to the Fight Against Diabetes

71 Year Old Embarking Upon a 31 Mile Bike Race to Support Diabetes

Carefully checking his Camel Bak to make sure it is full, Gene Schmuckler will get on his bike once again, this time to participate in the 2010 American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure. Schmuckler, who is
almost 71 years old, will attempt to tackle the 31 mile course which begins in
Tyrone, GA on Sunday, May 16^th.

While living in Brooklyn, NY Schmuckler began riding a bike, upgrading to a two wheeler at the age of 10. When he had some extra money Schmuckler would often go rent a bike by the hour just so he could ride.
Then on his 13^th birthday Schmuckler received his very own bike, a
Schwinn Black Phantom, a trusty bike that lasted him all the way through
graduate school at LSU.

Schmuckler has participated in Tour de Cure events before, however this year he will be joined by two of his daughters. “For us it is a family event,” he explains.

Although no one in his family suffers from diabetes Schmuckler believes this event to be a worthy cause due to the affect that diabetes has on so many people.“Being able to participate in a healthy and
beneficial activity while supporting a worthwhile issue is definitely a winning
combination,” states Schmuckler.

Tour de Cure is not a race, but rather a ride which offers smooth terrain, great scenery and routes for everyone. The ride contains fully catered rest stops and of course plenty of support. Upon crossing the
finish line riders will be greeted by volunteers, treated to lunch, a massage,
a live band and more.

The Tour de Cure raises funds to aid the American Diabetes Association in research, education, treatment and advocacy for adults and children. Diabetes affects more than 24 million Americans, including more
than 1 million people in our community.
Join Tour de Cure today and help stop diabetes. For more information
visit www.diabetes.org/tour or contact Lirys Cullinan at LCullinan@diabetes.org.

By: Ragan Helms