Gulf Coast Bike Trek returns to Dunedin Oct. 17 with four cycling routes

The fourth annual Gulf Coast Bike Trek returns to Dunedin on Saturday, Oct. 17, offering four cycling routes along the Pinellas Trail to raise money for the American Lung Association.

Riders will depart at 8 a.m. from John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park, 420 Main St., with routes passing through Dunedin and surrounding Pinellas County communities, including Clearwater and Tarpon Springs.

The event supports research, education and advocacy aimed at preventing lung disease and improving respiratory health.

Four routes offer options for different skill levels

Cyclists can choose from four distances:

62-mile metric century: A longer ride designed for experienced cyclists.
40-mile adventure ride: A challenging option for recreational riders.
25-mile ride: A new route introduced for the 2026 event.
10-mile family ride: A shorter route suitable for families and casual cyclists.

The city of Dunedin's event listing lists registration fees of $45 for the 62-mile and 40-mile rides and $25 for the family ride. The fee for the new 25-mile route should be confirmed through the registration portal.

Registered event-day riders must also meet a $200 fundraising minimum, according to the city.

The event will feature rest stops, hydration stations and support services along the routes.

For those unable to attend in person, the American Lung Association also offers a "Cycle Your Way" option, allowing participants to choose when, where and how far they ride. That option has no registration fee.

Fundraiser supports lung health research

This year's event highlights the importance of lung health, including respiratory conditions affecting children.

Steven Riddle, executive director of the Gulf Coast American Lung Association, told WFLA that pediatric lung health is a focus of this year's fundraising efforts.

"The focus this year is on pediatric lung health. Really driving the impact of kids with asthma and RSV," Riddle said.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of children nationwide. Respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV, can cause serious respiratory infections, particularly in infants and young children.

Proceeds from the trek support the American Lung Association's broader mission, including research into lung diseases, public education and advocacy for cleaner air.

How to register for the Oct. 17 ride

The Gulf Coast Bike Trek begins at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, at John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park in downtown Dunedin.

Individuals and teams can register through the official Gulf Coast Bike Trek website, which also provides route information and fundraising resources.

For questions, contact event organizer Steven Riddle at [email protected] or 813-712-2309.