Support our Tyler 'Shine On' Haute Route Campaign!
Team Riders
Meet the riders of the Haute Route Shine On Project. They will be training, racing and riding to raise awareness and money for Tyler Foundation.
Tim Smith:54 years old
Currently a resident in Japan for more than 7yrs, I began cycling seriously in my teens and in my 20′s started competing in local track and road races. With cycling, I found the perfect match of challenge and accomplishment. I started a bicycle import business in the 80′s and through that channel supported many young riders and enjoyed racing and touring all over the world. My career path changed as I grew older, but now has come full circle and once again I find myself involved in the sport that I love so much both in terms of business and passing on my experience to other riders. I believe one of the primary missions of any cyclist is to contribute positively in any way they can. By our involvement with Tyler Foundation ‘Beads of Courage’ program, we can directly contribute towards a young child’s life within the context of a sport that we love to do.
Stefano Girodano: 38 years old
I Started mountain biking in north of Italy, near the French border, when I was 12 years old. From my parents house, located just few meters from the beach, it was possible to reach a peak 950 meters high in less than 2 hours. Later on, my consultant job brought me around the world and far away from my bike. Finally, about a year ago, thanks to close friends and the great Japanese mountain roads, I found the motivation to jump again on a bike; a road bike this time. Refreshing. I promised myself I will never stop anymore.
The Tokyo-Itoigawa race, as well as all rides and races I am planning to do this year will be a great opportunity for me to achieve a personal milestone, while helping others. I feel so lucky.
Andreas Lundquist: 37 years old
I have always loved both cycling and riding motorbikes. I started riding Motocross when I was only 5 years old.
After only riding MTB’s I picked up my first real roadbike in August 2011. Wanted to get in better shape for the trackdays I did on the motorbike but instead cycling has become my main hobby.
The Tokyo- Itoigawa ride will be a big milestone for me and I also hope we can make a difference for other people together with the Tyler foundation.
Colin Housing: Age 35.
After a few years on motorcycles, I decided to get into shape and try road cycling. I got my first road bicycle in September of 2011 and have been trying to ride it as much as possible. The Tokyo-Itoigawa race I see as a great goal to achieve a finishing result for myself, and at the same time be part of a team supporting a good cause with the Tyler Foundation Shine On for children with cancer in Japan.
Eric Edler: Age 23
I was never really interested in bicycles until I came to Japan. I had a car back in the United States but here in Japan I had nothing but the crowded trains. I bought my first road bike in August 2010 just to be able to commute to school but I was instantly became addicted to biking. It gave me freedom to go anywhere I wanted and I was improving my health at the same time. I had my first race in November 2011 and that drove my addiction to cycling. Now I want to expand my cycling career and help people. Being able to ride for G.S. Astuto and the Tyler Foundation has given me an opportunity to do things I have never been able to do before and at the same time, every ride I do I am helping a child overcome a challenge of their own.
