SAN DIEGO–The San Diego Padres and Pedal the Cause announced a partnership expansion that will re-brand the annual cycling fundraiser as Padres Pedal the Cause for 2016 and beyond. The two organizations, which first partnered in 2015, will join forces to make an even larger impact.
Pedal’s 2015 two-day cycling event raised $1.3 million for cancer research and treatment centers here in San Diego. Together, the Padres and Pedal the Cause plan to grow the event, increase funds raised, and pave the way for a cure.
“One in two men and one in three women unfortunately will develop cancer in their lifetime. Being touched in some way by this horrific disease is something we all have in common,” said Padres President and CEO Mike Dee. “It’s going to take every one of us coming together for the fight of our lives to find a cure, and that’s Pedal’s mission. That’s why the Padres organization is so proud to join forces with Pedal the Cause. Together, we are committed to growing this event, raising more money, and keeping those funds here in San Diego to support the world-class cancer research that takes place in our community.”
“We created Pedal the Cause as a way for our San Diego community to raise money for important cancer research that otherwise might go unfunded by the government,” said founder and two-time cancer survivor Bill Koman. “Partnering with the Padres will expand that reach and help fast-track the research collaborations that will hopefully lead to a cure.”
As part of the partnership, the Padres will assume a larger role in the planning, promotion and execution of the event, utilizing the organization’s existing operational resources and audience. This year’s Padres Pedal the Cause event is scheduled for November 12-13 at its new home, Petco Park. New courses, distances and year-round special events will be offered to 2016 Padres Pedal the Cause participants. Individuals may participate by biking distances ranging from 12 to 162 miles, donating directly to the cause or to a participant’s fundraising page, or volunteering during the ride weekend. Youth are also encouraged to participate in the Superhero Kids Challenge, a one-mile ride around Petco Park.
