Sep 14, 2009
21st Annual Bike MS Moves Toward $1.7 Million Goal
The Eastern NC Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is pleased to announce over 2,400 cyclists and 300 volunteers participated in this weekend’s Bike MS: Historic New Bern Ride. Cyclists left from Union Point Park in New Bern for the successful 21st annual Bike MS September 12-13. Over $1.34 million has been counted to date, and officials project that they are on target to meet their $1.7 million goal. The fundraising deadline is October 5.
There is roughly a dollar to dollar ratio of money raised to money spent in New Bern and the surrounding cities. Due to a high demand for hotel space, participants spilled over into Havelock, Kinston, Jacksonville, Oriental, Morehead City and Atlantic Beach. 70 percent of these participants travel from the Triangle.
The two-day ride featured courses of 30 miles, 50 miles, 75 miles, and 100 miles each day. Bike MS benefits the mission of the Eastern North Carolina Chapter of the Society with the money going to support services for local people affected by multiple sclerosis and the Society’s efforts to find better treatments and a cure.
“The turnout and momentum for this year’s event was fantastic,” says Haley Transou, bike coordinator for the Eastern NC Chapter. “With record attendance and the addition of our 50-mile route, our ride proved to be a landmark event. We are grateful for the support and generosity of New Bern and the surrounding areas. Our volunteers, cyclists and donors went above and beyond to raise much needed funds.”
Bike MS is the largest organized cycling series in the country. Over 100,000 cyclists participate in more than 100 rides across the United States. Unlike a racing event, Bike MS is designed to provide a scenic, challenging ride for both the experienced cyclist and the energetic novice. Bike MS includes fully-stocked rest stops with bike mechanics; support and gear vehicles on the routes with the cyclists in case of mechanical problems; and dinner with live entertainment at the end of the day. The ride is complemented by a schedule of community rides across the region that began in May.
“MS is the number one disabling disease among young adults,” explains Transou. “With every donation, we are making real progress toward a world free of MS.” Learn more about Bike MS.