Michael Boston will be challenging himself with a 100-mile ride when April 30 rolls around this year.

That’s the date of the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure cycling fundraiser. This is Boston’s second year participating but hisfirst attempting the century ride.

“I wanted to challenge myself,” Boston said of why he decided to participate last year. “I wanted something that I could leave a mark on.”

Boston, a Suffolk resident, is diabetic and said he wanted to be an example to others.

“I wanted people who were diabetics to think they could do the same thing,” he said.

The ride features route options of 10, 25, 65 and 100 miles, all of which wind through the back roads of Suffolk.

Boston chose the 65-mile option last year.

“I didn’t think 10 was enough or 25 was enough,” he said. “I shied away from 100, being it was my first time out. I didn’t want to embarrass myself by going out and not finishing.”

Boston trained through cold and snow and freezing rain before last year’s ride.

“I’m glad I did, because last year on April 25 it was unseasonably cold and rainy,” he said. “Training was the hardest thing.”

Despite the weather and the fact that all his electronics died shortly into the ride, meaning he didn’t know exactly how long he had ridden or how far he had to go, Boston still finished.

“I always looked at the achievement, not the distance, so it was over before I knew it,” he said. “That tour and that time inspired me so much.”

Boston was so inspired, in fact, that he started “TEAM GOOD SPIRIT” on Facebook, a group whose 500 members get daily positive reinforcement and encouragement.

Boston said he would encourage anyone looking for a challenge to join the Tour de Cure.

“All of the people are happy and helpful, and I can’t say enough about them,” he said.

The Tour starts at King’s Fork High School, 351 Kings Fork Road, and takes place on April 30.

Fundraising takes place before the event. There is a $25 registration fee and a $200 fundraising minimum.

For more information about the Tour de Cure, visit www.diabetes.org/hamptonroadsvatour.