For those who may not know, what is Team Rowland?
As a family, we founded Team Rowland LLC with one mission: to raise money for medical research and services for Parkinson’s patients. Since our first ride in 2016, we’ve raised more than $1.6 million and have become one of the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Top 5 Community Fundraising Organizations. Every dollar from our events benefits the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and the Parkinson Association of Alabama.

Following my dad Mike Rowlands’ Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2014, my grandparents joined a cycling fundraiser organized by the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Friends, relatives, and colleagues rallied around them, and in 2019, we officially formed Team Rowland as an Alabama non-profit. Our mission is simple but powerful: put funds directly into the hands of scientists—like those at UAB—who are working toward a cure, while also supporting organizations improving life for those living with PD.

How long have you lived in the Preserve, and what do you like best about it?
We have lived here since February 2022 (about three and a half years), and truly enjoy being part of a quiet, safe neighborhood full of friendly, welcoming people. Being apart of a community that cares about each other is a rare thing and we are thankful to be apart of it.

Tell us more about the events you’re hosting this year.
The 2025 Team Rowland Ride to Eradicate PD, presented by O’Neal Industries, will be held October 4, 2025 at Oak Mountain State Park, and there’s truly something for everyone. Cyclists can choose from rides ranging 5–30 miles, and for non-cyclists, there’s the fun 1-mile “Roll & Stroll.” Can’t make it to the park that day? You can still participate virtually! We’ll also have games for kids and adults, breakfast and lunch, and a live band to keep the energy high. The easiest way anyone can help—without even leaving their living room—is to sponsor a rider by visiting: https://give.michaeljfox.org/event/2025-team-rowland-road-series/e670562

The day before, October 3rd, we’ll host our annual Golf Scramble — Par Fore Parkinson’s Golf Scramble, presented by Captrust, at the Oaks Course in Oak Mountain State Park. The scramble is open to everyone, and we welcome golfers, Hole Sponsors, volunteers, and spectators. It’s a great way to kick off the ride weekend while raising critical funds for Parkinson’s research.

Join other Preserve Residents like John & Tracy Van Gerwen, Ron & Leann Travis, and Jim & Karen Huntsinger, who help make this event a success every year!

What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Our biggest challenge is hosting an event for several hundred riders, walkers, and supporters each year. We’ve been able to pull it off thanks to a small army of dedicated volunteers—friends and family who believe in us and share our vision of a world free of PD! Gaining new riders, volunteers, and supporters each year is also a hurdle, but the passion of our community keeps us going.

What has been the most rewarding part of your work?
Probably the biggest reward is watching the group of several hundred people come together - volunteering their time - to support the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Parkinson Association of Alabama. We’ve seen the impact as the momentum toward scientific discovery, clinical trials and new treatments has accelerated dramatically in the past few years. Being part of team Fox means being part of a massive community fundraising effort that has directed more than $3 billion towards high-impact research since Mike Fox created the foundation nearly 30 years ago. Seeing the support from our family and friends for Mike has been the best motivator for our fight against PD. Knowing that we are not alone in this battle is the greatest blessing.

Yes. This year’s ride is dedicated to my grandfather, Gene Rowland, our family’s patriarch, who lost his battle with cancer just weeks before last year’s ride. His love and determination continue to inspire our fight against Parkinson’s.