Tour de Cure

Thousand Oaks Councilmember Jacqui Irwin and Alex Soteras, vice president of the Agoura/Oak Park/Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, have joined together to fight diabetes.

The two are co-chairpersons of the Southern California Market Tour de Cure, which will begin in Thousand Oaks on Sun., May 6.

Their goal is to draw 650 cyclists and raise $175,000 for the American Diabetes Association. The funds will be used for diabetes research and education.

Irwin will be riding her bike 30 miles.

The rides offer rest stops along the way, a hero's welcome when riders cross the finish line and an afternoon of food, music, entertainment, massages and raffles as part of the post-ride activities.

"Everyone knows someone- a family member or a friend- who has diabetes," Soteras said. "It is a terrible disease and we need to raise funds for research."

"We also want to make sure children understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle," Irwin said. "We want to promote lifelong fitness."

Local companies are being asked to contribute to the event and can call (888) 342-2383, ext. 7448 for more information..

- Nancy Needham