The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is challenging local cyclists to “take the ride of your life” by participating in the 2007 Tour de Cure, an annual cycling event that raises funds for diabetes this Sunday at Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone.

Cyclists from around the region will ride “silk sheets” in south metro Atlanta. Route options include 100K, 50K, 25K and a new eight-mile family fun ride. With registration as early as 7 a.m., the ride will include entertainment and fully supported rest stops with energy packed snacks. The ADA hopes that cyclists, along with their friends and family from around the region will raise over $300,000 to support research for a cure.

“Many people will participate in Tour de Cure for the camaraderie and physical cycling challenge. But the real reward comes in knowing that every mile they ride and every dollar they raise brings us that much closer to a cure for this disease that affects nearly 750,000 children and adults in Georgia each year,” said Doug Papciak, who is a member of Team Bank of America for Tour.

“With diabetes growing at near-epidemic proportions, the need for funds has never been so great,” added Papciak.

Tour de Cure is sponsored by Cox Enterprises, WSB-TV Family2Family, WSB 750 AM, and 92.9 Dave FM. Cyclists are welcome to participate as an individual, join a team or start their own. Registration is $25. To register, form a team or volunteer for Tour de Cure, call Kendra Cross at the American Diabetes Association 404.320.7100 ext 3084 or visit www.diabetes.org/tour.