Ride Miles for Kevin McDowell

Triathlete Kevin McDowell of Geneva, who earned the silver medal in the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore and a bronze in the 2010 ITU Junior Triathlon World Championship in Budapest, is running a new race, against Hodgkins lymphoma.

“We’re calling it a little bit of a speed bump in the road,” said mom Traci McDowell, noting the illness is in its early stages, the prognosis is excellent and Kevin has already begun treatment. 

Teammates on his MultiSport Madness Triathlon Team wanted to share encouragement and support for Kevin, who graduated early in January from Geneva High School. They are holding a Miles for McDowell fundraiser from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. this Sunday at the Bike Rack, 2930 Campton Hills Drive, St. Charles.

The Bike Rack, where Kevin does many a winter bike workout, is donating its coaching and class time to hold the Computrainer Marathon event. There will be 12 bike stations (riders need to bring their own-smooth-tire bikes) open for shifts for 12 hours. Bikes will be set up on the Bike Rack’s Performance Center equipment, and coaches will coach participants through the sessions, Traci said. Riders may sign up for any amount of time they wish. 

The aim? To complete a total of 3,000 rider miles, about the distance from the East Coast of the United States, to the West.

The original thinking by some of the team members was to raise funds so that Kevin -- normally sponsored in his racing -- could accompany the team on those races for which he’d already qualified, even though he won’t be competing.

The McDowells asked that proceeds also help fund research into curing lymphoma. Chris Palmquist, the MMTT youth coach set up a website through which people may donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

His treatment means he’s sidelined from “doing what he loves and does so well ... racing triathlons,” the page says. “Part of our mission is to raise money for lymphoma research–so than other people like Kevin won't have to go through this. We are completing this event in honor of all individuals who are battling blood cancers. These people are the real heroes, and we need your support to cross the ultimate finish line–a cure!”

“People can ride and contribute that way, or can donate via the website. Or they can do both,” Traci said. “It’s a positive thing for everyone to be able to do.” 

“(He) has inspired us throughout the years not only with amazing athletic abilities, but also with his kindness, friendship and mentoring of fellow junior and youth teammates on the MultiSport Madness Triathlon Team,” said fellow teammates, in a flyer on Sunday’s event.

Sunday’s fundraiser is but one of the many ways the family has experienced an outpouring of love and support.

“The community has been unbelievable,” Traci said, adding they didn’t even know about the fundraiser until one of the organizers called.

Families also have lined up to bring food and the McDowell’s street is full of trees bedecked with big yellow bows of support. 

“It’s amazing how supportive this community is.” 

Here’s more on how to ride on Kevin’s behalf.