Testimonials
Joel Young, North Carolina
"I discovered my deep-rooted passion for the Arthritis Foundation along the route of the California Coast Classic Bike Tour. Pedaling alongside dedicated supporters, inspirational honorees, and incredible volunteers was truly life-changing. Their stories, struggles, and triumphs continue to fuel my determination to make a difference. Join us in the spirit of camaraderie, philanthropy, and adventure as we share the hospitality and beauty of the East Coast."
Duncan and Gloria McRae-Spencer, North Carolina
"We are so excited to see the Arthritis Foundation Cycling Experience come to the Carolinas! As Juvenile Arthritis parents, we have been regularly involved with the Foundation since our daughter was first diagnosed in 2019. We have been keen to raise awareness that kids get arthritis too, and Arthritis Foundation events give us the chance to get to know other JA families, contribute to local fund-raising events, and become aware of what's happening on the national scene.
In 2022, our family traveled to California to experience the California Coast Classic, where we encountered a community full of committed, enthusiastic riders and volunteers focused on their goal – raising funds, raising awareness, and riding for a cure! We can’t wait to bring some of that community to the unique setting of the Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains in 2025 and beyond."
Dennis Ehling, California
Our first Annual Carolina Hills Classic Bike Tour is a huge moment for us at the Arthritis Foundation, and we are thrilled to be able to bring the spirit of the Arthritis Foundation Cycling Experience to the Carolina Hills! The CHC is our second national destination event and an important part of continuing to raise funds to support the Arthritis Foundation’s mission, to raise awareness of the importance of that mission to the nearly 60 million adults and children living with diagnosed arthritis and those who care about them, and to build-up the Arthritis Foundation community.
But what is more, as a 20-year rider and leader of the California Coast Classic, I am personally very excited to bring a particularly energetic and committed part of the Arthritis Foundation community - the CCC family– to the Carolinas to start growing that family here!
Bob Johnson, Maryland
The California Coast Classic has changed my life in so many ways. You make quick connections with people who are dedicating their time and effort to a loved one or to prove to themselves that “I can do this!” The vibe and atmosphere this ride has brought thousands of people over the years is so wonderful. And we all do it to support those who have challenges with the thing we take for granted in our lives... MOVEMENT. The various forms of arthritis are the leading causes of disability in the USA. The Carolina Hills Classic Bike Tour is going to be EPIC, and I can’t wait!
Tim Clepper, California
I signed up for the first-ever California Coast Classic Tour in 2001 as a bucket-list cycling challenge. The first time I did this in 2001, I just wanted to do the ride. I just got hooked on it and I’ve been coming back every year since. After 23 years of making friends while riding the California Coast Classic with the Arthritis Foundation, I am incredibly excited to expand the legendary experience and feel of that event to the Carolinas for a new Ride-of-a-Lifetime adventure. There’s no way I'm missing this inaugural event and opportunity to ride the Carolina hills and make new lifelong friends!