Make a lasting impact in the fight against blood cancer by joining Team 209, a community-driven cycling group dedicated to training, fundraising, and saving lives. Together, the team rides in the America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride around Lake Tahoe in June—a breathtaking event with 100, 72, or 35-mile routes. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out and have never ridden before, Team 209 will equip you with expert coaching, tailored training plans, and a supportive group to help you achieve your goals.  

Founded in 2012 by Coach Mel Bradley to honor his late wife Nancy, Team 209 has grown into a powerhouse, raising over $3.4 million for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). In 2024 alone, the team included 65 members who raised $445,000 for cancer research. With eight national fundraising titles in the last 10 years, this local team is making a global impact.  

Why Join Team 209?

- Contribute to cutting-edge cancer research and patient support.  

- Train under award-winning leaders like Coach Mel Bradley.  

- Be part of a passionate, encouraging, and tight-knit community.  

- Challenge yourself while creating lifelong memories.  

No experience? No problem! Training begins in February, giving you plenty of time to prepare. Team 209 welcomes cyclists of all levels and will guide you every step of the way.  

Make 2025 your year to inspire hope and take action. Be part of something bigger than yourself—join Team 209 today and turn your determination into lifesaving cures.  

Mel's passion for building community through cycling began as a way to honor his late wife, Nancy. Mel spent 7 years driving to Sacramento weekly to train with the team before founding a team right here in the 209. This year he was named the inaugural recipient of the Spirit of the Valley Award. This award was presented to Mel by Community Hospice and Health Services. The award was created for an individual who “embodies a tireless spirit of generosity, commitment to community, understanding of and dedication to fundraising to advance organizations’ missions, demonstrated belief in collaboration, and relentless tenacity and tenure in service to others.” Mel Bradley has spent decades giving back, including nearly a decade of service on the Board of Directors for Community Hospice and Health Services Foundation, where he served as Chairman in 2023. 

Team captains Linda Lindenberg and Debbie Sommerfeld are not only founding members of the cycle program but also the heart of the team community. Together, these fantastic women serve as the team cheerleaders, motivators, and social glue all season. 

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Team 209 has grown to be the TOP FUNDRAISING TEAM in the NATION for 8 of the last 10 years running! Team 209 has raised more money ($3.4M) than any other TNT Friends & Family Team in the 33-year history of Team In Training.