Benaroya Research Institute Cycling Team Goes Racing for Research
The Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason (BRI) is proud to announce the second year sponsorship of the Benaroya Research Institute Cycling Team for 2005. Founded in 2004, the Benaroya Research Institute Cycling Team competes in major regional and local cycling competitions in the Northwest.
"Our involvement with the team last year was very beneficial. They helped generate great interest in our research efforts to discover the causes and cures of autoimmune and genetic diseases. Our goal is to help patients with conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer and heart disease," said Paula Brady, Sr. Director of Development and Public Affairs for BRI. "To be involved with a team that touches the community with such drive and determination is rewarding for all of us and everyone who benefits from our research."
The team, lead by founder and team captain Russell Stevenson, finished the 2004 season as the Northwest’s premier cycling team with 21 victories that culminated in Stevenson’s overall victory at the Mount Hood Cycling Classic.
"Our whole team took great pride in being associated, involved and supported by the Benaroya Research Institute," said Stevenson. "We were more than just a race team. It motivated everyone and brought the whole team together. Our great results were definitely from teamwork and not just individual efforts."
BRI is fueled by scientific collaboration, which is a similar commitment necessary for a cycling racing team. Bike racing is a team effort, with each member providing support, strategy and determination to carry the eventual winner across the finish line. This type of "team collaboration" is exactly how researchers at BRI employ a search for answers about diseases and their origins.
Both the BRI Cycling Team and the BRI research team embody the highest level of dedication to their cause--sharing it though community involvement and education, as well as a desire to usher the power of BRI’s research to as many people as possible.
In addition to racing a full Northwest competition schedule, the BRI Cycling Team will attend special events for the public associated with Benaroya Research Institute. These include the Tour de Cure American Diabetes Association Ride, the Benaroya Research Institute Triathlon at SEAFAIR, the Virginia Mason Team Medicine Marathon at SEAFAIR and BRI’s Illuminations fund-raising event.
"Last year the team represented BRI at the American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure Ride. They made it a priority to help support BRI and our partners in community events. A team ride was auctioned at our Illuminations fund-raising event for $5000, which went directly to fund research. While the team’s primary focus is racing, their support of our community programs is a very special element of our partnership. The year 2005 will be an opportunity to build on the momentum of last year," said Brady.
Also strengthening Benaroya Research Institute Cycling Team in 2005 and beyond is the addition of team manager David Visintainer of Seattle. A cycling enthusiast and racer since 1984, Visintainer is the founder and owner of BikeCafe.net, bringing a strong business background to the team. Combined with Russell Stevenson’s experience in pro cycling, the two partners are approaching the management, development and promotion of cycling with a fresh look in the Northwest.
About CNC Sports
The Benaroya Research Institute Cycling Team is managed by CNC Sports.
