**THE REASONS FOR THE RIDE**
It is with heavy hearts that we remember Michael Lander, a remarkable human and Red Beacon in the C group for BMTR's Flat 100 Event for over five years, who was loved by all. Michael passed away unexpectedly on February 24, 2025, at the age of 56 due to previously undiagnosed heart issues.

This BMTR Cares event is fundraising in partnership with Michael's sister, Rebecca Lander, for Sports Cardiology Toronto, a cause that perfectly reflects Michael’s passion for ultra-endurance sport and helps protect other athletes and families from the same devastating loss. A core mission of Sports Cardiology Toronto is to help athletes with heart conditions return to play safely or continue exercising in modified ways when needed. Their multidisciplinary team of cardiologists, exercise physiologists, and kinesiologists delivers care that truly understands both the heart and the athlete.

As we approach the one-year anniversary of his passing, we invite you to join BMTR Cares and Michael's family in honoring his memory. Let's come together for a group ride to the "BMTR LANDER" memorial Zwift created last August at the request of Michael's sister, Rebecca, located just beyond hairpin number seven on the Alpe Du Zwift climb. When we reach the tribute, we will pause in silence to reflect on the lasting positive impact Michael had on all of us, then continue our ascent to the top of the climb.

We truly appreciate your support and hope you will consider making a donation, no matter the size, to Sports Cardiology Toronto. Every contribution, big or small, makes a meaningful difference for this important cause that touches so many lives: https://www.fundraiseforstmikes.ca/fundraisers/rebeccalanderOpens a new window
.
**THE RIDE PLAN**
- There will be two Yellow Beacon Ride Leaders
- We will ride together at an average of 2.2-2.6 w/kg for the first 19.4 mostly flat miles (31.2 mostly flat kilometers :) to the base of the Alpe Climb.
- At the base of the Alpe Climb, we will split into two pace groups: One Yellow Beacon will pace the climb at 2.6 w/kg, while the 2nd Yellow Beacon will pace at 2.2 w/kg.
- Upon reaching Michael's Memorial just past bend 7, both groups will pause for a minute of silence before continuing to the top of the Alpe Climb.
- The route and event officially end at the Alpe banner at the top, but there will be an "After Party" where many will continue riding in honor of Michael.
- The estimated completion time for the entire route to the top of the Alpe climb is 2:15 to 2:30 hours, depending on your chosen climbing pace.

We hope you will join us to honor and remember Michael and to support a vital cause.



**Join Us On Any or All of the Following Platforms!**
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bmtrzwiftclubOpens a new window
- Strava: https://www.strava.com/clubs/BMTRZwiftClubOpens a new window
- Zwift: https://www.zwift.com/clubs/BMTR/homeOpens a new window
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/bmtr_zwift/Opens a new window

**To Find All Weekly BMTR Events**
- https://bmtr.eventsOpens a new window