May 29, 2009
Florida’s Largest Charity Bike Tour Raised close to $2 million in 150 Mile Ride to Fight Multiple Sclerosis
Beth Cohen
Miami, FL – The 23rd Annual Zimmerman MS Bike Ride brought out 2500 riders that made the 150-mile journey from Miami to Key Largo and back.
The event, held on May 2 & 3, is Florida’s largest and most exciting charity bike tour. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society South Florida Chapter raised close to $2 million to help the thousands of South Floridians affected by multiple sclerosis, supporting MS research and client services to thousands of men, women and children living with MS.
Riders began their trek from University of Miami’s BankUnited Center, and spent the night in Key Largo at The Village at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. One of the highlights of the weekend included an exciting lap around The Maroone Pit Stop at Homestead-Miami Speedway as friends and families cheered them on. Participants received a medal from a group of volunteers with multiple sclerosis as they crossed the finish line.
“This has been a tough year financially for everyone. That is why I am so proud of our riders, volunteers and sponsors for helping us get so close to our goal. These individuals are passionate about finding a cure for MS, and together we can change the future and bring an end to this disease.” said Karen Dresbach, National MS Society South Florida Chapter President.
In addition to the generous support from returning title sponsor, Zimmerman Advertising, the following were major supporters of the Ride: Maroone, Dade County Federal Credit Union, Miami-Dade County, American Medical Response, FedEx, UPS, Ryder, Cordis, Homestead-Miami Speedway, BankUnited Center at the University of Miami, Publix, Bacardi USA, 790 The Ticket, 93 Rock, NewsRadio 610, Comcast, Sun-Sentinel, Telemundo 51, Univision, CBS 4, Clearchannel Worldwide and The Palm Beach Post.
For more information about the National MS Society South Florida Chapter please visit http://fls.nationalmssociety.org or call 954-731-4224.