50 riders.
43 sponsoring companies.
23 support crew members.
200+ miles.
$168,491 dollars raised.
52 salad bars to schools!
After only its fourth year, the Tour de Fresh three day cycling event, with the help of the United Fresh Start Foundation, has raised more than $600,000 and funded 200+ salad bars. As a result of the 2017 event, more than 20 school districts across the country will receive their very own salad bars!
Fundraising and camaraderie were both at an all-time high as riders battled scorching temperatures, complicated switchbacks and steep climbs from Pismo Beach to Lake Nacimiento. Encouragement from fellow riders and Olympic cyclists Ina-Yoko Teutenberg and Axel Merckx along the way helped riders overcome the challenging course. The work certainly paid off as riders crossed the finish line at The Wharf Marketplace in Monterey, CA to the cheers of family, friends and industry peers.
We are blown away by the unwavering support shown by everyone involved with this event! The photos below highlight a very small portion of the fun that was had by all throughout the event, with more photos and videos to come.
California Giant’s Morgan Maitoza and Tom Stenzel hold up the Tour de Fresh flag at the starting line in Pismo Beach.
Riders from Mission Avocados show off their coordinated cycling kits at the starting line.
As a Tour de Fresh tradition, the yellow jersey ceremony took place after the conclusion of the ride each day to commemorate good sportsmanship. Yellow jerseys were awarded to individuals nominated by their peers.
More yellow jersey winners celebrating on Day 2.
Riders enjoy a snack break and amazing views at Morro Rock.
Olympian Axel Merckx encourages riders before the tough Day 2 ride.
Drew MacDonald of Taylor Farms gives the camera crew a thumbs up.
A group of riders encourages each other on a tough climb on Day 2.
The riders celebrate together at the finish line ceremony in Monterey.
While social media, pictures and videos can offer a glimpse into the incredible journey the Tour de Fresh offers, they can only highlight so much; the true power is felt while attending in person. As a first time support crew member myself, I cannot emphasize enough how inspiring it is to see industry colleagues come together in this way for a shared cause. DMA Solutions has had the pleasure of working hand-in-hand with the California Giant Foundation since the inception of this event, and we remain humbled and in awe of the power fresh produce holds when we work together.
If you didn’t have a chance to give, there’s still time! Donations will be accepted at www.tourdefresh.com/riders until the end of August.
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