On September 1, the wheels start turning across the nation as hundreds of riders, families, and supporters join together for A1F Riding for a Reason, the Alpha-1 Foundation’s signature cycling fundraiser and a powerful celebration of purpose, unity, and hope.
This year’s ride is deeply meaningful. It is dedicated to Alpha, Fred C. Walsh, whose life and legacy left a lasting imprint on the entire Alpha-1 community. Fred’s passion, advocacy, and unwavering support for Alpha-1 patients and families set a standard of leadership and compassion that continues to inspire. His memory fuels our mission, and this year, every rider and volunteer will carry his spirit forward with every mile.
The ride will also celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Alpha-1 Foundation. For three decades, the Foundation has funded research, raised awareness, and built an unshakable community of patients, caregivers, researchers, and advocates. A1F Riding for a Reason will serve as both a tribute to the journey so far and a rallying call for the work still ahead.
From coast to coast, participants will ride on bike paths, neighborhood streets, scenic country lanes, and city routes. While the ride is virtual, the shared mission connects us all. Riders will proudly wear vibrant event t-shirts, and many will debut the brand-new limited-edition 30th anniversary jerseys, designed to commemorate this milestone year. These jerseys will not only make a statement but also serve as a reminder that we ride for the people behind the mission, and for the promise of a cure.
Friends, families, and teams in every state will ride in honor of loved ones, in support of groundbreaking research, and in solidarity with the Alpha-1 community. The energy will ripple across social media, with photos, videos, and stories flooding timelines in a wave of Alpha-1 pride using the #A1FRidingforaReason on social media.
Rider Spotlights
Radley Krill & Family
Cheer on the Krill Family riding as Team Ride for Radley! Radley is a little boy full of dreams like becoming a pilot, and his family is riding in his honor to raise Alpha-1 awareness and funds for research.
Dr. Wilson & the CReM Lab
We’re thrilled to spotlight Dr. Wilson and the Boston University CReM Lab Team, joining Escape to the Cape and riding alongside Alphas in support of research, awareness, and hope.
Siobhan Spears
A big shout-out to Siobhan, riding, and volunteering for the very first time in Escape to the Cape! Wish her the best of luck as she gears up for a fun and meaningful weekend.
Heather Hail Sutton
We’re excited to welcome Heather Hail Sutton on her first year with Riding for a Reason. Recently diagnosed with Alpha-1, Heather is eager to ride, raise awareness, and make an impact.
Jason Medeiros & Family
From Tennessee, Jason Medeiros and his family will be joining the Gulf Coast Ride for the first time in Dunedin, FL. Let’s cheer them on as they take on this inspiring challenge together.
Dr. Jennifer Sherman
Happy 50th Birthday to Dr. Jennifer Sherman! She’ll be celebrating in style by joining Riding for a Reason for the first time — cruising on her pink tricycle while raising awareness and funds for Alpha-1.
There is still time to register for A1F Riding for a Reason, Escape to the Cape and the Gulf Coast Ride.
For more information, please visit: http://give.alpha1.org/a1fridingforareason2025
For further information, please contact: Irene Calderon, A1F Development Manager at icalderon@alpha1.org
