After raising a jaw-dropping $685,000 in 2024 — averaging $1,089 per mile — the Fireflies West cycling community is officially recruiting new riders for its 2025 tour, reigniting its mission: to ride bikes, to raise money, and to find cures for cancer.
Now in its 16th year, Fireflies West brings together a passionate group of cyclists, many hailing from the advertising and entertainment industries, to honor loved ones, support patients, and fund critical cancer research at City of Hope, one of the nation’s leading cancer centers. To date, the Fireflies West community has raised more than $5 million for the institution.
“With every mile covered and every dollar raised, we are one step closer to finding a cure for cancer,” said Michael Raimondi of Union Editorial, a longtime rider since 2004.
Last year, the tour expanded beyond California for the first time, launching a stunning seven-day, 628.8-mile ride from Oregon’s Willamette Valley to California’s Napa Valley. The new route didn’t just offer epic vistas — it helped set a new fundraising milestone and reaffirmed the community’s relentless spirit.
The 2025 Route and “Call for Riders” Opens
This month, organizers announced the official 2025 tour route and dates, and opened the “Call for Riders,” inviting new and returning cyclists to join the cause. The announcement also kicks off a five-month training window leading into the fall tour, giving riders the time to prepare physically and mentally for what is, for many, a transformative experience.
“The Fireflies West Tour isn’t a race,” said Erik Press, co-founder of Fireflies West. “It’s a shared journey that challenges people to join us in changing the world a little bit at a time.”
More Than a Ride—A Global Movement
What began as a ride among friends has blossomed into a global movement — with rides now spanning Europe and North America — powered by the belief that the fight against cancer is universal and deeply personal. Fireflies West riders push themselves not for medals or podiums, but to honor those who’ve faced cancer, and to fund research that could save lives.
Each year, the ride becomes a deeply emotional pilgrimage, reminding participants that no hill, no headwind, no saddle sore compares to the daily battles faced by cancer patients and their families.
“What’s most impressive is seeing our community support less experienced riders accomplish goals that once appeared impossible,” Press added. “Our work in creating meaningful impact — both on and off the bike — is far from over.”
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a first-timer inspired by a greater purpose, Fireflies West welcomes those ready to put in the miles, raise the funds, and ride with meaning.
To apply or donate, visit fireflieswest.com.
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