Raymond James to Sponsor First-ever Gulf Coast Bike Trek for Lung Health

The American Lung Association is pleased to announce that Raymond James Financial has signed on as Presenting Sponsor of the inaugural Gulf Coast Bike Trek. The family-friendly cycling event, taking place along the Pinellas Trail on Saturday, October 21, will support the Lung Association’s efforts to improve lung health and prevent lung disease. The theme of the Trek is pediatric lung health.

“Philanthropy is one of our firm’s cornerstones, and we are proud to once again partner with the American Lung Association to save lives,” said Nicholas Terlonge, vice president, eastern divisional sales manager at Raymond James and incoming member of the Lung Association’s Gulf Coast Florida Board. “Our Raymond James family puts our values into practice and will be cycling to bring an end to lung cancer and lung disease with a focus on pediatric lung health. We’re encouraging the Tampa community to join us for an unforgettable event!”

The Gulf Coast Bike Trek will offer a scenic ride through historic Pinellas County, top-notch rider support, plentiful rest stops and finish line festivities. The route will largely avoid main highways by traveling along the Pinellas Trail. The Trek is open to cyclists of all experience levels, with three options: a 62-mile loop (a metric century ride), a 40-mile loop and the Chick-fil-A Family Ride (10 miles).

“We are grateful for Raymond James’ continued support and partnership – both here in Tampa and across the Southeast region,” said Steven Riddle, executive director of the American Lung Association in Tampa Bay. “We are touched by the sheer dedication of their people, who have championed our cause time and time again.”

Cyclists may participate individually or in teams, which can include friends, families, companies and organizations. More than 20 Raymond James colleagues will be cycling together as the RJ Bulls.

“Pediatric pulmonary diseases, like childhood asthma, take a toll on our most vulnerable,” Riddle added. “Our participants will be cycling for loved ones, friends and their community.”

Each year, students miss nearly 14 million school days due to asthma. It is a leading illness-related reason that children and youth miss school. Here in Tampa, more than 42,000 children have been diagnosed with asthma. The Lung Association has resources available at Lung.org/asthma.

Raymond James has partnered with the American Lung Association on events across Florida and the Southeast since 2018. This past April, the company served as the Presenting Sponsor for the Fight For Air Climb Tampa at Bank of America Plaza. The RJ Bulls have participated in a total of 5 climbs.

Registration is $25 for the Chick-fil-A Family Ride (10 miles) and $40 for the 62-mile loop and 40-mile loop. There is a $200 fundraising minimum to participate. Participants who raise more than $500 will earn a promotional bike jersey. Funds raised from the Gulf Coast Bike Trek will support the American Lung Association’s efforts to save lives through lifesaving research, education and advocacy. For more information, and to register, visit GulfCoastBikeTrek.org.