Breast Cancer Ride Begins

By Misty Cryer

In support of Pink Pedals 4 A Cure—Terry’s Ride and to raise funds for The Breast Carlsbad Research Foundation, a Minnesota man is pedaling for a cure in a cross-country bicycle ride for the eighth year. His wife, a breast cancer survivor, is driving the support vehicle, cheering him on, and looking out for his safety.

The 46-day ride started on March 22 at Walter Gerrells Civic Center with the couple, Al and Terry Reszel, enjoying the hospitality and send-off Carlsbad is known for. The ride is expected to arrive on Mother’s Day at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s Global Headquarters in New York.

Community members, including City of Carlsbad Officials, Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Staff and Ambassadors, and even Ripple the Elf, gathered for the send-off with the Destination Carlsbad hot air balloon tethering. City Councilor Mary Garwood spoke on behalf of Mayor Lopez and the community of Carlsbad, wishing the couple a safe and successful journey. “We are proud to be the starting point for such a meaningful mission. This year, Al and Terry have set a goal of raising at least $10,000 for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation,” she said.

Al said they ride about 90 miles a day to raise funds for the foundation, which he said is the number one rated breast cancer charity in the United States. “This ride is going to be 4,000 miles. We’re riding across the southern tier of the U.S. right along the coast—across Texas and across the Atlantic Coast, Daytona Beach, and then all the way up the East Coast. We’re going to end like we’ve ended all of our rides at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation Headquarters in Manhattan, New York City,” said Al.

The 2025 Pink Pedals 4 A Cure—Terry’s Ride marks a historical milestone. “When we reach Fredericksburg, TX, for the eighth run, we’re going to hit 24,901 miles, which is the equivalent of riding around the equator,” Al said. He said he talks to groups and schools about breast cancer, telling them that you can do anything if you put your mind to it.

“I’m 66 years old,” Al said. “I can’t do research, but I can ride a bike. We’re just trying to do our part,” he said.

According to Terry’s story, posted on the Pink Pedals 4 A Cure website (https://pinkpedals4acure.org), this year also marks 15 years since Terry was diagnosed with breast cancer after enduring multiple biopsies and ultrasounds over the previous 10 years.

To follow Terry’s Ride of 2025, visit the Facebook page for Pink Pedals 4 A Cure. Donations to the cause can be made online at give.bcrf.org/pp4ac2025.

Councilor Garwood recognized and thanked those who helped make the send-off possible, with special mention of Chad Ingram, the Chamber of Commerce, his staff, and the ambassadors who organized the event. “Thank you to Renee and the Riverwalk Recreation Center for the beautiful banner. And a special thanks to our public safety officials for being here to provide an escort and ensure a smooth start to Al’s journey,” she said.

Al and Terry both expressed gratitude for the support and hospitality received from the community, as did Councilor Garwood, who said, “Thank you to everyone who has supported Al and Terry through donations, encouragement, or simply by being here today. Your support makes a difference.”

To Al and Terry, Councilor Garwood said, “On behalf of our entire community, we wish you a safe and successful journey. May the road ahead be smooth, and may your efforts bring us closer to a cure.”