See photos from this year's event...

September 13-20, 2008

Even the threat of Hurricane Ike couldn’t stop the dedication of the Lone Star Circle of Life riders. This year marked the 11th Annual Lone Star Circle of Life Bike Tour. Twelve passionate and committed cyclists from Texas rode eight days throughout the state to increase awareness for life-saving donations of marrow, stem cells, blood, organs and tissues. In addition to riding hundreds of miles across the Lone Star state, this committed group also raised $7,500 for the ongoing efforts of adding new members to the Registry.

Each day of the tour, the team rode into special events hosted by local donor centers along with the local blood centers and organ provider organizations. These events were designed to not only honor those were donors or recipients, but also as an awareness event so the media could highlight the need for donors to the entire community.

Honorees, (donors or recipients) were selected in each city to have their story highlighted. The team rode into each local event wearing the name of the honoree, attached to their jersey and would share their story at the event. This was a very moving and emotional experience for all in attendance.

Each year, the team rides hundreds of miles, riding under a variety of weather conditions. This year, the Lone Star team had to contend with Hurricane Ike making landfall on the very day the team was to start off in Houston. Delayed, but not defeated, the team completed all legs but two of the ride, the remaining parts of the ride will be completed in the coming months.

Thanks to the wonderful support of local communities, the media support and dedication of the Lone Star riders, the important messages of the need for organ, blood and tissue donation is heard loud and clear across Texas!