One of the Finger Lakes region’s longest-running charitable cycling events is getting a new name as organizers broaden the focus of the fundraising effort beyond HIV and AIDS.
The Southern Tier AIDS Program announced this week that the annual AIDS Ride For Life will become the Finger Lakes Ride For Life beginning with this year’s event, scheduled for Sept. 19. Organizers said the change reflects the organization’s evolving mission to support people facing a wider range of health and medical challenges.
The ride, now entering its 28th year, remains STAP’s largest annual fundraiser. Participants cycle routes around Cayuga Lake while raising money to support services for people living with HIV and AIDS, chronic illness, substance use disorder, mental health challenges and other barriers to care.
Event coordinator Kayla Thomas said advances in HIV treatment, prevention and education have dramatically changed the landscape since the ride was founded nearly three decades ago. As a result, STAP has expanded its services in recent years to assist people facing stigma, healthcare barriers and hardship related to a broader range of medical crises, including the opioid epidemic.
Organizers said the name change is intended to better reflect that work while maintaining the event’s longstanding commitment to community-based care and support. The annual ride has become a fixture in the region, drawing cyclists from across the country.
In 2025, more than 250 riders participated and raised over $130,000 for STAP programs. Organizers said all proceeds from this year’s Finger Lakes Ride For Life will continue supporting services for vulnerable individuals throughout the region. The event’s presenting sponsor remains CSP Management, which has supported the ride since its inception in 1998.
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