Bike 4 Briar is a charitable initiative focused on raising awareness and funds for Angelman Syndrome research. Inspired by Briar, a child living with the condition, Charlie Nuck and Todd Downey have committed to cycling over 4,200 miles across the United States. Their journey, starting in Washington and ending in Maine, is designed to bring attention to the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by Angelman Syndrome. The funds raised will directly support research aimed at developing effective treatments and ultimately, a cure. The sheer scale of the ride underscores the importance of the cause and the dedication of the participants.
Bike 4 Briar is a charitable initiative focused on raising awareness and funds for Angelman Syndrome research. Inspired by Briar, a child living with the condition, Charlie Nuck and Todd Downey have committed to cycling over 4,200 miles across the United States. Their journey, starting in Washington and ending in Maine, is designed to bring attention to the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by Angelman Syndrome. The funds raised will directly support research aimed at developing effective treatments and ultimately, a cure. The sheer scale of the ride underscores the importance of the cause and the dedication of the participants.
Bike4Briar Charity Hat
Let's face it, sometimes your helmet hair needs a break. Or maybe you just want to look effortlessly cool while supporting Briar. Either way, our Bike4Briar trucker hat is here to save the day (and your head).
Features:
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- Classic Trucker Style: Mesh back for ultimate breathability, because even your scalp deserves a little fresh air.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand everything from sun-drenched bike rides to questionable gas station snacks.
- Adjustable Snapback: One size fits most... even those with exceptionally large brains (or just a lot of hair).
- Bike4Briar Logo: Show your support and instantly become the coolest person at the rest stop.
- Sun Protection: Because sunburned foreheads are never a good look.
- Hides Helmet hair: A vital feature.
Perfect For:
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- Cyclists who want to avoid the dreaded "helmet hair" look.
- Anyone who appreciates a classic trucker hat.
- People who want to show their support for Briar in a stylish and practical way.
- People who like hats.
- People with heads.
Grab your Bike4Briar trucker hat today and let the world know you're a champion of style and charity! (And that you have excellent taste in headwear.)
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Bike4Briar Charity Tee
Support Briar and avoid looking like you just wrestled a sweaty octopus in our Bike4Briar charity tee! Made with a magical blend of 95% polyester and 5% spandex, this shirt is so comfy, you'll forget you're wearing it... until someone compliments your impeccable taste, of course.
Features:
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- 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex: The Official Fabric of "I'm Totally Athletic, But Also Really Comfortable." Seriously, it's like a gentle, stretchy cloud.
- Moisture-Wicking Powers: Keeps you drier than a comedian's delivery. No more swampy situations, even during the toughest climbs.
- Lightweight? You Bet! Perfect for when you want to feel like a majestic, unburdened gazelle... even if you're actually pedaling like a caffeinated hamster.
- Helps Briar: Because let's face it, good karma is the best accessory.
Perfect for:
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- Cyclists who occasionally pretend they're in the Tour de France (even if it's just to the mailbox).
- Anyone who appreciates a good cause and an even better tee.
- People who like to wear shirts that make them feel like they're getting a gentle hug all day.
Get your Bike4Briar tee today and show the world you're a champion of comfort and charity! (And maybe a little bit of spandex.)
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What is Angelman Syndrome?
Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a rare neurogenetic disorder, occurring in approximately 1 out of every 15,000 births. This condition stems from the loss or malfunction of the UBE3A gene on chromosome 15, which is crucial for brain development. As a result, individuals with AS experience significant developmental delays, impaired motor coordination, and limited or no speech. Notably, those with AS often display a characteristically happy disposition, frequently smiling and laughing.
While there is currently no cure, Angelman Syndrome is considered a leading candidate for gene therapy research. Scientists are exploring methods to activate the dormant UBE3A gene, which could potentially reverse the symptoms and offer a therapeutic breakthrough.
What is Angelman Syndrome?
Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a rare neurogenetic disorder, occurring in approximately 1 out of every 15,000 births. This condition stems from the loss or malfunction of the UBE3A gene on chromosome 15, which is crucial for brain development. As a result, individuals with AS experience significant developmental delays, impaired motor coordination, and limited or no speech. Notably, those with AS often display a characteristically happy disposition, frequently smiling and laughing.
While there is currently no cure, Angelman Syndrome is considered a leading candidate for gene therapy research. Scientists are exploring methods to activate the dormant UBE3A gene, which could potentially reverse the symptoms and offer a therapeutic breakthrough.
Our Story
In April, the passing of John Nuck, Briar's grandfather, deeply impacted his family and friends. To honor his memory and support the cause close to his heart—finding a cure for Angelman Syndrome—his longtime fraternity brother, Todd Downey, initiated Bike 4 Briar. Todd committed to a 4,200-mile cycling journey from Anacortes, Washington, to Bar Harbor, Maine, a tribute to their 45-year friendship and a drive to raise awareness and funds. Upon hearing of this endeavor, Briar's uncle, Charlie, joined the effort.
Starting May 27th, they will cycle approximately 80 miles daily for two months, dedicating their ride to hope, remembrance, and the pursuit of a cure.
Our Story
In April, the passing of John Nuck, Briar's grandfather, deeply impacted his family and friends. To honor his memory and support the cause close to his heart—finding a cure for Angelman Syndrome—his longtime fraternity brother, Todd Downey, initiated Bike 4 Briar. Todd committed to a 4,200-mile cycling journey from Anacortes, Washington, to Bar Harbor, Maine, a tribute to their 45-year friendship and a drive to raise awareness and funds. Upon hearing of this endeavor, Briar's uncle, Charlie, joined the effort.
Starting May 27th, they will cycle approximately 80 miles daily for two months, dedicating their ride to hope, remembrance, and the pursuit of a cure.
Our Riders
Todd Downey
We would like to introduce Mr. Todd Downey…TD for short! Todd attended Miami University where he and John Nuck were members of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Todd is happily retired and works part time slinging beers at a local craft brewery, 50 West. Todd is an avid cyclist and in 2023 he rode the Southern Tier which starts in California and ends cross country in St Augustine, Florida! He lives in Mason Ohio with his lovely wife of 42 years, Amy. Together they have two kids, Amanda and Tyler, and when asked about a fun fact he said that his most favorite weekend of the year is the Considine Invitational, which is a charitable golf outing for the Pike fraternity brothers that has been going on for the past 35 years!!!
Charlie Nuck
The second half of the riding team is Charlie Nuck. Unlike TD, Charlie is not an avid cyclist and just bought a bike in August 😂. Some say he has a screw or two loose, but he is just an adventure seeking adrenaline junkie looking to make his Dad proud and do good in this world. He saw this as an opportunity to honor his Dad’s memory while helping find a cure that has potential to positively change his nieces life as well as everyone else who is effected by Angleman Syndrome. When he isn’t traveling around the world, he resides in Cincinnati where he owns and operates a construction company. He is a self proclaimed candy enthusiast, a yes-man when it comes to adventure, and loves to be surrounded by friends and family!
How to Support
Spread Awareness
Donate
100% of all donations go directly to FAST (Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics) a 501(c)3 non-profit patient advocacy organization whose sole mission is to find a cure for AS (Tax ID: 26-3160079). to fund life-changing research and help find a cure. Every dollar makes a difference!
Become a Sponsor
Businesses and organizations can support the ride by donating funds, services, or products. Sponsors who contribute $5,000 or more will have their company logo featured on the cyclists’ jerseys, gaining national exposure while supporting an incredible cause.