Closer to Free Ride

The Closer to Free Store is BACK (with 10% off!)

The store, offering the finest apparel and accessories that support Closer to Free, is redesigned and officially reopened, just in time for summer.

Whether you’re training on the road or relaxing at the beach, we have you covered. Grab your summer essentials, including lightweight tanks, beach totes, sunglasses and insulated water bottles, or gear up for warm-weather rides with fresh cycling swag.

To celebrate our re-launch and clear out vintage merch to make way for our brand-new store at the Yale Bowl on Ride Day, take 10% off all orders placed from June 25 to July 2 using the code SUMMER26.

Explore the full selection today at shop.rideclosertofree.org.

*Promo ends July 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM.

Tune in to NBC Connecticut tonight at 6:15 to hear from first-time rider Maria Tomei.

Maria will be riding on Team Jackie Strong in memory of her friend Jackie, as well as her late husband, Michael.

Thank you, Cathy, for sharing your powerful story.

Watch it here: https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/video/news/local/closer-to-free-ride-volunteer-now-has-a-team-riding-in-her-honor/3746733/

Smilow Cancer Hospital

Closer to Free ride volunteer now has a team riding in her honor Cathy Rives said she was stunned when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2025. She and her family is raising $45,000 for this year’s Closer to Free ride and all of the money is donated back to the Yale Cencer Center and Smilow Cancer Hospital for Patient Care and Research.