DC Bike Ride and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Celebrate Community Impact and Unveil Exciting Plans For the Fall 2024 Event
DC Bike Ride Returns for Eighth Year and Promises Even Greater Engagement and Philanthropy
WASHINGTON, D.C. - May 22, 2024 - DC Bike Ride, proudly presented by CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) and Events DC, is set to hit the streets of Washington, D.C. once again this fall, marking its return on Saturday, September 7, 2024. With over 10,000 riders expected, this signature event has firmly established itself as a highlight on the city's annual agenda and made a lasting impact on the local economy, with contributions totaling approximately $16.5 million since inception.
The ride will continue its iconic views, flavor stations, live music and fun along the way, while incorporating some new elements, including more experiential elements throughout the course, and a new start line on historic Constitution Avenue. This starting point will bring an even better and smoother rider experience for participants. The ride’s 2024 edition will also bring an enhanced give back component that empowers all riders to make an impact in their community.
The event is proud to confirm the continued support of its presenting sponsor, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. This partnership, established in 2016, has flourished, nurturing community involvement and charitable endeavors such as Pedal For A Purpose. This continued collaboration will solidify the event's philanthropic endeavors, with proceeds benefiting nonprofit organizations and community programs. Over $225,000 has been donated to organizations such as the Washington Area Bicyclist Association, Fruitful Planet, and the Wounded Warrior Project since the event began.
“This partnership shows what two organizations can accomplish when we harness our resources toward a shared mission of positively transforming the health of our community,” said Mack McGee, Chief Marketing Officer for CareFirst. “We’re proud to continue this partnership with DC Bike Ride and play a part in enriching the health of Washington, D.C. while supporting an opportunity for thousands to experience the signature monuments and history of our nation’s capital.”
Through the Pedal For A Purpose initiative, CareFirst and DC Bike Ride have raised $75,000 to support efforts to alleviate food insecurity and enrich local communities. Now, they are collaborating to enhance their annual grant to Dreaming Out Loud. Year five of the Pedal For A Purpose initiative brings an expanded timeline that encourages cyclists across the region to pedal and contribute to community well-being, launching in May and running for 120 days, ultimately culminating at the DC Bike Ride on September 7. And, for the first time, every rider’s participation in the DC Bike Ride will count towards the total collective mileage goal of 200,000 miles. The proceeds will go to support Dreaming Out Loud and their efforts to fight food insecurity, embodying the spirit of making a tangible difference in the lives of local communities through every ride.
“Witnessing the growing enthusiasm and participation year after year is truly inspiring,” said Chris Browne, Managing Director of DC Bike Ride. “We're dedicated to making this event a showcase of inclusivity, health, and community spirit, and I'm thrilled to see how our riders can continue to come together as a community to have fun and make an impact. We extend our heartfelt thanks to CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield for their unwavering support. Having an organization like theirs backing this event not only helps us in our mission but also underscores the importance of fostering a healthier, more connected community.”
Commencing on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. EST, the car-free event welcomes all riders of all levels on a scenic journey, traversing 20 miles with iconic monuments and vibrant culture. The ride culminates in the Finish Festival, featuring delicious food, fitness classes, and live entertainment against the backdrop of the U.S. Capitol Building. Before the September 7 event, attendees are invited to join the Packet Pickup Party on September 5-6. This party, along with the Finish Festival, is free and open to the public. Check out the complete weekend schedule of events here.
To register or volunteer for the DC Bike Ride and for more information, please visit www.dcbikeride.com. The ride is created for participants of all ages (3+) and cycling levels. Riders ages 3-7 years old are free to ride, and children 8-17 are always half price. Adult registration starts at $74 and various registration add-ons, including bike and helmet rentals and cycling jerseys, are available.
To learn more about the 2024 DC Bike Ride, visit www.dcbikeride.com.
About CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
In its 86th year of service, CareFirst, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is a not-for-profit healthcare company which, through its affiliates and subsidiaries, offers a comprehensive portfolio of health insurance products and administrative services to 3.5 million individuals in Maryland, the District of Columbia and Northern Virginia. In 2023, CareFirst infused $233 million in support of regional community impact to improve overall health and advance accessible, affordable, equitable, high-quality healthcare. To learn more about CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, visit www.carefirst.com.
ABOUT DC BIKE RIDE
Founded in 2016, DC Bike Ride (DCBR) is the Washington, D.C. region’s premier recreational bicycling event. The Ride celebrates the people, places, and culture of Washington, D.C. while providing unprecedented car-free access to iconic sites. The event raises awareness and support for various local nonprofits through the Pedal For A Purpose program. The event is operated by American Bike Ride, a leading organizer of iconic cycling events in the United States. With other flagship events including Philly Bike Ride, the company aims to promote active lifestyles, community engagement, and the exploration of American cities' cultural and historical significance. American Bike Ride is committed to creating unforgettable experiences that prioritize safety, sustainability, and inclusivity for riders of all ages and abilities. For more information, visit www.dcbikeride.com.