Shelton Cyclist Elliott Gualtiere Pedals for Cancer in CT Challenge

Written by By Abby Howe

Elliott Gualtiere of Shelton has been a supporter of the CT Challenge for several years and he will once again be pedaling for fellow cancer survivors on Saturday when the ride celebrates its 10th anniversary. Gualtiere, who was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2010, will be riding 50 miles with Team BMW. He has been involved with the Challenge since that diagnosis, both as a rider and a volunteer, after having surgery and other cancer treatments. He found out about the CT Challenge and its work empowering cancer survivors from a friend.

For the past few years, Gualtiere has been a member of Team BMW, which is one of the biggest teams each year and BMW of Bridgeport has been a sponsor of the Challenge since the event started 10 years ago.

Mitch McManus, president and general manager of BMW of Bridgeport, is the driving force behind its association with the CT Challenge. He said, “There is no one who is not touched by cancer, including my family, so our continued sponsorship of the CT Challenge is something we are deeply committed to.” 

Gualtiere became involved with Team BMW when he was looking for help with his fundraising efforts for the CT Challenge and found that BMW was offering a great incentive to join their team. He was excited to join the longstanding and committed team.

“They are very supportive of the Challenge and its efforts, as well as the efforts of all the riders,” he noted.           

Unfortunately, in 2012, Mr. Gualtiere broke his leg and was unable to ride. He volunteered that year while his best friend rode in his place, determined to show his continuing support and dedication. Through physical therapy, intense training, and a good deal of persistence, Gualtiere is ready for the ride once again. A large part of his recovery was his involvement with spinning classes at the CT Challenge Center for Survivorship in Southport, which the ride funds. Gualtiere originally rode 25 miles his first two summers and was able to increase his distance to 50 miles, even after his injury.

 “The ride has given me a sense of purpose and accomplishment," he said. "No matter what distance people are riding their presence makes a difference in people's lives, including my own."

Registration for this weekend’s bike ride is still open for new riders and teams. Over 975 riders and more than 90 teams have already been registered.  A 100-mile ride on Friday starts the proceedings in Lakeville, CT and ending in Westport at the Fairfield County Hunt Club. 

Close to 100 survivors will be among those riding in the Challenge’s signature event on Saturday, which is preceded by opening ceremonies and a survivor tribute.

The ride raised $1.65 million last year. To donate to a rider in this year’s CT Challenge Bike event, visit http://2014ctchallenge.kintera.org and click “sponsor participant.