The Breakthrough T1D Ride community has been Jon’s second home for more than two decades, and this year marks a special milestone—his first Ride alongside his 13-year-old son, Marlon.
Since his T1D diagnosis in 1979, Jon has been deeply connected to Breakthrough T1D’s mission as a longtime Ride coach and Greater New York Chapter Board Member. He has an impressive track record, logging nearly 40 Rides, coaching countless cyclists, and serving as a T1D champion on and off the road. He recently rejoined the Breakthrough T1D Coach Corps for the first time since 2019, volunteering as a myRide Coach to support local riders through training, recruiting, and awareness-building efforts. His sister, Robin, even took on the Ride twice herself, carrying the family’s commitment to ride for T1D breakthroughs.
Jon lives in Mamaroneck with his wife, Lindsay, and their two children. His passion for the Breakthrough T1D Ride is deeply personal, not only because of his own T1D diagnosis, but because his daughter and sister also live with the condition.
This year, their family tradition evolves as Jon and Marlon gear up to ride together in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from August 21-24.
All Grown Up and Ready to Ride
For Jon, riding with Marlon isn’t just a proud parenting moment, it’s something they’ve looked forward to for years.
“Marlon has been coming to rides since he was 5 months old. My wife, who also participated for the last 21 years as a rider and volunteer, carried him in a baby carrier at a rest stop in Vergennes, Vermont. He’s been ready to Ride for years, but now he’s finally old enough.”
The pair has been training together this summer, riding around Rye and Mamaroneck whenever they could.
For Marlon, it’s about joining a movement that’s been a part of his life for as long as he remembers.
“My reason for riding is to support my family and friends. There are many people in my life such as my sister, my dad and my aunt who live with T1D. I’m excited to be a rider, because I’ve been wanting to ride for years and this is my chance to do something good.”
Advice from a Coach (and Dad)
Jon is no stranger to giving guidance to first-time riders, and when it comes to his son, his advice is simple:
“Take it at your own pace, enjoy the ride—and take out your headphones!”
Why the Ride Community Matters
Since first saddling up in Death Valley, California, in 2003, Jon has found a unique kind of belonging in the Breakthrough T1D Ride community—one that’s shaped who he is today.
“This was the first place and the first community I’ve been a part of where T1D is celebrated. It’s where we elevate our own possibilities to live not just a better life, but the best life.”
That sense of celebration and support has transformed him in ways he didn’t expect.
“I’ve become the person I didn’t know I always wanted to be—a community builder, a T1D role model, and someone who, even at 46, surprises himself.”
What’s Next
On Saturday, August 23, Jon and Marlon will finally take on their first Ride together in Santa Fe. It’s more than a bucket list moment; it’s a reflection of something bigger. Riding together represents their shared commitment to action, advocacy, and hope. The Reitzes are continuing a family tradition truly rooted in resilience, pedaling toward a future where T1D no longer shapes their lives.
Inspired by Jon and Marlon?
Join the Breakthrough T1D Ride, cheer on Marlon and Jon, or support Ride in other ways. Learn more at Breakthrough T1D Ride.