100 Miles for a Cure

Marty Miserandino and his brother Vinny are biking 100 miles this Sunday to help find a cure for diabetes.

They ride from South Hamilton to New Hampshire in honor of their mother Julie, who they lost to diabetes in 2008 as she suffered severe complications from the disease. And they riding for their father Vinny as well, who they recently learned has diabetes.

Miserandino, co-owner of specialty bike shop  over on Foster Street, has been riding in the North Shore Tour de Cure, a signature fundraiser for the American Diabetes Association, for the past five years. He's serving as the chairperson of the event again this year and is captain of Team Fit Werx/JULES.

Prior to the Tour de Cure, Miserandino started the indoor cycling spin-a-thon Ride for JULES, which has raised $500,000, he says.

In a recent message to supporters, Miserandino reports he's already hit his fundraising goal of $10,000, and there's still more time to donate before May 20.

"Thanks to each and everyone one of you who took the time to make a difference...every 17 seconds someone is diagnosed with diabetes, but with your help we'll stop this thing," he said.

The tour is not so much a race as it is just a ride for a good cause, although awards will be given out for fastest male and female in time trials and hill climbing sections in the 100-mile course. There are also 15-, 31- or 62-mile options for cyclists, and each route does include rest stops, food and fans.

Miserandino is also offering anyone who gives $50 a chance to win a Cervelo R3 road bike (valued at $3,150) while all entries in the 100-mile course also have a shot at a Parlee Z5sli bicycle (valued at $4,700) plus a free fitting at Fit Werx.

If you'd like to donate to the cause through Miserandino's team, you can do so here. You can also still register to ride the day of at the Pingree School -- the registration fee is $25 and you need to have raised at least $200. Registration for the 100-mile Grand Fondo is $200 and there is no minimum fundraising.

For more updates, follow Miserandino on Twitter.