The Mike Utley Foundation DAM2DAM “Thumbs Up!” Bike Tour over the last seven years has funded many outstanding projects.  Two Terrain Parks, Research, Funding for Patient Equipment not covered by insurance, SCI Scholarships and Therapeutic Recreational opportunities.

Our heartfelt appreciation must first go to our Sponsor’s for making this event possible.  Partnering with the Mike Utley Foundation through their generous funding and in-kind donations has allowed us to create a great bike tour.   Participants in the bike tour that have contributed thousands of dollars in donations to support these SCI projects have completed the package.  To all Thank You!!!!

The economy has been a hot topic for the past two years and it has been affecting everyone.  Fortunately the bike tour has remained financially strong but it was time to re-evaluate our position.  The Board of Director’s would need to consider the financial stress that would be placed on our Sponsors and Riders promoting a bike tour in 2010. During these difficult times the decision was to cancel the 2010 DAM2DAM “Thumbs Up!” Bike Tour.  The Board of Directors will revisit the possibility of a 2011 bike tour if the economy improves over the next year. 

In addition to funding research, rehabilitation and education for spinal cord injuries, the bike tour created an opportunity for handcyclists to participate in a recreational sport.  The purchase of a handcycle was often out of reach financially for many.  As an incentive to collect donations during the bike tour interested parties had the opportunity to win a new handcycle.  In an effort to continue with this recreational opportunity, the Mike Utley Foundation will run a special campaign starting April 1, 2010 through September 30, 2010.  You can still win a new handcycle simply by setting up your own donation page through access on our website and encouraging others to donate $6,000.00 in contributions.  For those without access to the Internet, donation packets are available to help you reach your goal through the Foundation.  When you have met the $6,000.00 minimum in donations your new handcycle will be ordered and shipped directly to you.  

The Mike Utley Foundation welcomes questions, comments or suggestions.  You make it possible to financially support those living with a spinal cord injury.

THANK YOU!