“My cancer scare changed my life. I’m grateful for every new, healthy day I have. It has helped me prioritize my life.” –Olivia Newton John

Pink Specialized Jersey with Breast Cancer Awareness Ribbon Logo

By Tara R. McKee

Over a decade ago, I ran my first 5K race in celebration of an aunt who had survived a bout with breast cancer. It was the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure series: well organized races to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. Primarily these Races for the Cure have been 5Ks and fun runs, but now they have added bicycling and you can find several Ride for the Cure events across the US, including one century Ride for the Cure in Aspen, Colorado.

Participating in one of these “for the cure” events is a great way to participate in the fight against breast cancer. You can get in better physical shape as you prepare for a race or ride. If you aren’t currently active, this is a great cause to start you on the path. My first Race for the Cure 5K was such a positive event, it led to improved physical training, weight loss, marathons and triathlons.

Women's BG Spirita Road Shoe . Specialized women's Body Geometry Spirita sport road shoe is a great performer for any road enthusiast, with casual styling, an efficient sole

Good physical fitness plays an important role in helping to fight breast cancer and regular physical activity, like riding a bike, may reduce one’s risk of developing this disease.

The Susan G. Komen For the Cure foundation has many great corporate sponsors who are active in raising awareness and funds to fight breast cancer. Specialized is supporting several “for the Cure” events and is offering limited edition bikes and equipment with a portion of the proceeds going directly to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. They want to encourage women to get out and ride and at the same time, donate to this noteworthy cause.

Women's Echelon Helmet . The ideal helmet for road enthusiasts, this minimalist, road race design is the most affordable way to experience Specialized-signature fit, comfort and ventilation.

“We are lucky to be able to use the bike – a great vehicle for change – to improve the world we all live in. We are riding to raise awareness to battle breast cancer. Four people who are close to me are battling cancer, so this cause is very close to home. We can find a cure if we all work together.” –Mike Sinyard, Founder and President of Specialized Bicycles

Specialized Ruby SL Gel Saddle "Comfort Comes First"