Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the DCC?
  The acronym DCC stands for Dolphins Cycling Challenge. It is a two-day, tri-county charity cycling event spanning 170-miles that was founded by the Dolphins to increase cancer awareness, encourage healthy hobbies, and raise funds for UM’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
  
• When does it take place?
  The date varies each year depending on the Dolphins and UM Football schedules. This year’s ride will take place on November 3rd & 4th.
  
• Where does the ride take place?
  The various routes have cyclists traveling through Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties and across 37 municipalities. 
  
• Do you have to be an avid cyclist to participate?
  No, a rider can choose to bike shorter, more manageable routes accommodating cyclists of all skill levels.  DCC participants have several other options in addition to participating in the entire two-day ride.  For example for 2012:

• How many miles are there between rest stops?
  On the average there is a rest stop about every 15-20 miles with food, beverage, and mechanical and medical assistance. SAG vans will also patrol the route to provide immediate assistance to cyclists if necessary. Law enforcement will work to ensure rider safety on the road.
  
• How do I register?
  You can register at www.ridedcc.com. If joining an existing team, select the team name you wish to join (i.e., Team UM, Team Sylvester, Team UM – Athletics, etc.); and enter GOCANES12 for your promo code.
  
• Why is there a registration fee?
  This is a fundraiser event, with all funds raised by riders going directly to the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.  The registration fee covers the cost of: a commemorative ride jersey, water bottle, gift bag and two (2) tickets to the Miami Dolphins DCC Celebratory Game (for 2012 it will be the Dolphins vs. Seahawks on November 25th), in addition to amenities during the ride such as food, beverages, medical supplies, mechanical assistance, etc.
  
• What are the fundraising requirements for DCC?
  Fundraising requirements vary depending on the route you select to do.  There is a discounted requirement for 1st year riders, students, or out-of-state riders.  Remember all funds raised by the rider go directly to Sylvester and the fight against cancer. 
  • 2-Day Complete Ride: 170 miles - $1,200 ($600 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • Miami 30 & Ft. Lauderdale 30: 60 miles - $1,200 ($600 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • Miami 30 & West Palm Beach Ride: 100 miles - $1,200 ($600 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • Palm Beach 30 & Ft. Lauderdale 30: 60 miles - $1,200 ($600 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • Miami Century Ride: 100 miles - $1,000 ($500 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • Miami 30: 30 miles - $500 ($250 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • Palm Beach 30: 30 miles - $500 ($250 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • West Palm Beach Ride: 70 miles - $750 ($375 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • Fort Lauderdale 30: 30 miles $750 ($375 First-time rider, student, out-of-state rate)
  • Kids Ride: $25 registration fee; no fundraising required ($50 Suggested Fundraising)
  • Virtual Rider: $25 registration fee and $125 minimum fundraising requirement
    
• What if I am unable to meet the minimum fundraising amount?
  Because the Dolphins Cycling Challenge is a fundraising effort, by registering to participate you are committing to the fundraising requirements and are personally guaranteeing that the fundraising minimums will be submitted to DCC in a timely manner. Riders are responsible for raising and submitting the appropriate fundraising minimum amount to Dolphins Cycling Challenge before November 18, 2012. As family and friends make pledges to your cause, it automatically contributes towards your fundraising goal. Your fundraising commitment is met once you have raised the amount indicated as a minimum requirement upon registering. If, for any reason, a rider is unable to reach his or her fundraising minimum before November 18, 2012, the credit card provided will be charged for the unmet portion.

• How do I get back to the starting location of my ride from the finish line?
  Complimentary transportation is provided. If you will not be participating in the 2-Day ride, Miami Homecoming Loop or Palm Beach Loop which start and end at the same location, complimentary transportation options are available from all finish lines to all starting locations. Shuttle services are offered before the start and at the conclusion of each ride. You will be prompted to select the appropriate transportation option from the drop down menu during the registration process. Transportation will be provided for the rider, their bike, and a small piece of luggage for personal items, such as a change of clothing.
  

• What is the start time?

• What if I am unable to ride? Is there another way for me to support this effort?
  Yes. The Dolphins Cycling Challenge offers several avenues through which you can get involved, whether it be as a Virtual Rider who fundraises for the Sylvester cause, supporting another rider by making a donation to his or her fundraising effort, or by volunteering. The DCC is a major event that requires many volunteers; even if you are not available to help on November 3rd and 4th, you can help with other events planned before the actual ride.
  
• How can I make a donation?
  There are several ways you can donate:
  • You can register as a Virtual Rider (VR).  A virtual rider raises funds just as a rider but does not ride.  There is also no registration fee or fundraising minimums.  To register as a VR simply go to http://ridedcc.com/virtual-rider and complete the registration process.
  • You can support a team or a rider by making a contribution under their name at their DCC webpage.  Go to http://www.ridedcc.com/dcc/pfp/Search.asp and enter their name.
  • You can make a donation via check. All checks should be made out to the Dolphins Cycling Challenge and mailed to the DCC office with a completed Check Donation Form (PDF).
    
• Is my gift tax deductible?
  Yes, rider donations are tax deductible. If the donation was made on-line, you should receive an email acknowledging your donation immediately. Donors who mail a check will receive an acknowledgment letter via the email address provided on the Check Donation Form.