I first learned of my friend’s cancer diagnosis a couple of months ago, but I didn’t know it was colorectal cancer. The last couple of days we’ve been communicating and today we decided to make the offer to Mark Te Ruki, and he accepted. Mark like myself, is a transplant to Tulsa… though he traveled across the Pacific vs the Red River. Mark is from New Zealand, and he traveled to the US after becoming a New Zealand National Junior Champion in road racing. While in the US he met a woman, who later became his wife and the mother of his children… and Mark tied down roots in Tulsa. He’s been a major figure in Tulsa’s cycling scene for over a three decades: racing, coaching/mentoring cyclist of all ages, and just being an all out ambassador for the sport.
Mark is one of the most special people I’ve ever met: his radiant personality, warm heart, generosity, and contagious smile ensures that you will love him immediately. During communicating with Mark, he mentioned he would like to raise awareness for the importance of getting a colonoscopy for early detection. Ashlee and I launched this event in 2023 for her colorectal cancer treatment and to help raise awareness, so not only are we going to help Mark out with his battle financially… we’re teaming up to help raise awareness!
So, stay tuned for more details on how you can help make sure, the 2025 12hrs of Twisted Oak is a huge success!
For event registration and details please visit our website at:
https://www.twistedoaktrails.com/12-hours-of-to
#mtb #mountainbiking #oklahomamountainbiking #cycling #racingforacause #colorectalcancerawareness
