Breakaway to the Beach registration fee includes an official event t-shirt, five catered meals, all support services and much, much more. This two-day ride caters to cyclists of all ability levels with a variety of route options each day. Shorter options are available for the less experienced rider and a century option is available for the more seasoned rider. Our charity ride includes rest stops approximately every 8 to 12 miles along the route, catered meals, rest stop support, bike mechanics, medical staff, police support, SAG, beer and loads of fun at every turn. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a recreational cyclist, or a hard core roadie, this ride is for you! In addition to your non-refundable registration fee, your participation requires a minimum of $300 in collected donations which must be turned in before picking up your ride packet.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What are the dates of 2012 Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach?
September 22-23, 2012
Where will the 2012 Bike MS Ride be located?
Saturday:
100- mile route starting from Monroe, NC.
75 and 100 -mile routes starting from Kershaw, SC
Sunday:
100-mile route starting from the overnight location at Francis Marion University in Florence, SC
50-mile route starting from Green Sea, SC.
How do I register for the 2012 Bike MS Ride?
Register online or call 1-800-344-4867.
What are the registration fees?
$25 -- November 15, 2011 - December 31, 2011
$35 -- January 1, 2012 - May 31, 2012
$55 -- June 1, 2012 - September 18, 2012
Registration fees are nonrefundable, nontransferable, and not applicable to the $300 fundraising minimum.
$35 Friday Shuttle Pass From Sunset Beach, NC to Kershaw, SC - Click here to purchase your Friday Shuttle Pass.
$35 Sunday Shuttle Pass From Sunset Beach, NC to Kershaw, SC or Monroe, NC - Click here to purchase your Sunday Shuttle Pass.
Is there a fundraising requirement?
Yes. To continue our efforts to find a cure for MS, each rider is required to raise a minimum of $300. The funds raised by Bike MS participants support research and provide programs and services to individuals with MS and their families. While we want this ride to be an amazing event for all of our participants, we must remember that we are here for one purpose: to bring an end to multiple sclerosis. You can help us do that.
How can I raise funds?
Once you register, we'll provide you with simple fundraising tips to help you meet and exceed your fundraising goals. You can track response rates and online donations on your webpage with the fundraising thermometer. And don't forget to ask your donors if their company has a matching gift program!
You cannot pick up your rider packet until your $300 fundraising minimum has been turned in.
What if I only want to ride one day or one of the shorter routes on Saturday, do I still need to raise $300?
All riders, regardless of how far they ride, are required to raise the $300 fundraising minimum. And you don't have to stop there! We encourage you to take up the challenge and raise as much money as you can to join us in this important quest to end MS.
How old must I be to participate?
The minimum age to participate in the 2012 Bike MS Ride is 16. All riders 16-17 years old must be accompanied at all times, on and off the route, by a participating parent or guardian. If an under age rider is picked up by one of our SAG vehicles, the participating parent or guardian must accompany the under age rider. Additionally, all participants 16-17 years old must have a notarized waiver form submitted to the Greater Carolinas Chapter prior to the ride.
Can people who haven't registered show up and ride morning of the event?
Yes. All riders who register the morning of the event will be required to pay the $55 registration fee and turn in donations that meet or exceed the $300 fundraising minimum.
When should I collect my donations to ensure I raise the $300 minimum?
As soon as possible! It's best to collect donations as soon as you can; remember you are required to raise a minimum of $300 in order to ride. Take advantage of our online donation feature and watch your donations grow! For your donors who prefer to donate by check, make checks payable to the National MS Society or NMSS and be sure to put the rider's name and 2012 Bike MS in the memo line/ Remember...try to collect all donations before September 7, 2012. If you turn in your minimum $300 by September 7th, your rider packet will be mailed directly to you. You will not be able to pick up your rider packet until the $300 fundraising minimum is met. The final deadline to collect your donations to be eligible for prizes is October 30, 2012. ***Donations are non-refundable and non-transferable.
When and where do I turn in my donations?
Online fundraising is the key to success! Studies show that fundraisers who ask for donations via email, Monday through Friday 9 AM-5 PM, are more than twice as likely to receive contributions.
Donations not received online should be mailed to the NMSS office at:
National MS Society
Attn: Bike MS: Breakaway to the Beach Ride
3101 Industrial Drive, Suite 210
Raleigh, NC 27609
You also will have an opportunity to submit donations in person at one of our Packet Pick-Up locations prior to the event.
Can I transfer my online donation(s) to another participant?
No. Funds cannot be transferred from one rider to another once the funds have been assigned to an individual online. If someone would like to make a credit card donation to be divided amongst a team, please contact our administrative team at 919-834-0678.
How can I become a Top Fundraiser and what are the benefits?
Becoming a top fundraiser not only gives you bragging rights but also gives you many perks and incentives (such as prizes, trips and much more)! Check out our fundraising tools page for ideas, or contact Mary Saier, Bike MS Coordinator at mary.saier@nmss.org or 704-731-1430.
Will I need to carry identification or medical information?
Each participant MUST carry a current driver's license, state I.D. or student I.D. with them at all times. It is imperative that each rider is easily identified should an accident occur. We also require each participant to submit emergency contact information upon registration. This information will only be used if an accident occurs during the event. It is recommended that each cyclist carry medical insurance card/coverage information.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes. All cyclists are required to wear helmets. Your safety is of the utmost importance to us.
When will I receive my rider number, helmet number, luggage tag and bike frame number?
If your $300 fundraising minimum is turned in by September 7, 2012 we will mail you your packet the week of September 10th. We will also host a Check-In and Packet Pick Up the Friday afternoon before the ride at the Monroe and Kershaw start sites. You can also check-in and pick up your packet the morning of the event at both start locations. ***You will not be able to pick up your rider packet until the $300 fundraising minimum is met. ***
How many pieces of luggage can I bring and how does it get to where I am going?
Each rider may bring two pieces of luggage that will be tagged to correspond to your rider number. We ask that the bags be no heavier than 50 pounds since volunteers will be loading and unloading the luggage truck. Once you arrive at the start line, drop off your luggage by the sign "Luggage Drop." Make sure you have all belongings (identification, bike supplies) that you plan to carry with you before you drop your luggage.
Your luggage will be held in a designated area at the overnight site in Florence, SC. Please have your rider number bib handy for the attendants so they can quickly retrieve your bag for you. Please remember that you are responsible for your luggage as soon as you arrive in Florence. On Sunday morning you will leave your luggage on the bus that picks you up at your hotel and pick it up by the finish line at Sunset Beach. If you do not ride one of our provided shuttles, you can drop your luggage by the "Luggage Drop" sign at either of our start sites.
Is there storage for my bike at the overnight location?
We offer secured overnight valet bike service with 24-hour security guards at the overnight location in Florence, SC. We highly suggest that you take off any removable equipment, as we are not responsible for lost or damaged items. The secure bike area will be locked up from 7pm-6am. You will not have access to your bike during this time, no exceptions.
Where do I sleep?
Most cyclists choose to reserve a hotel room at one of our many partnering hotels near the overnight location in Florence, SC. Free shuttles will be available to all Bike MS partnering hotels and overnight camping location. Free overnight camping (gym floor camping) is available at the local YMCA.
What type of route support can I expect on the tour?
Safety is our number one priority for our riders! Support and Gear Vehicles (SAGs) monitor the entire route to help the weary rider or offer assistance to those riders who experience mechanical problems. Medical personnel is stationed at the start/finish, as well as at all rest stops. We also have a safety crew made up of experienced riders, police officers, medical personnel, HAM radio operators and other law enforcement who will be with you every step of the way. Their expertise and authority will be a valuable asset to assist novice riders and to remind all participants to follow all the rules of the road.
What if it rains during the Bike MS?
Rain or shine, the 2012 Bike MS Ride still goes on.
Is this a race?
Bike MS is a ride, not a race. Routes are designed for everyone from the occasional rider to the experienced cyclist. Form a team with friends, family or co-workers and enjoy an unforgettable weekend!
My spouse/co-worker/family member doesn’t ride but wants to come support me at the event, what can they do?
We need volunteers! There are many volunteer opportunities during Bike MS, including working at rest stops, assisting with set-up, registering cyclists and much more! Register to be a volunteer.
SUNDAY 50-MILE FAQs
How will I get to the start site?
Cyclists will be transported to the start site from area hotels on a Bike MS shuttle bus. Shuttle buses will pick up riders at all official Bike MS hotels and camping locations. All buses will go directly to the 50 mile Green Sea Floyds start site. Bike MS staff and volunteer will be on hand to lend assistance as needed. Shuttle buses will pick up promptly at 7:30am on Sunday morning.
What if I don't need a shuttle ride?
Cyclists who have their own transportation can click here to download a map and directions to the 50-mile start site. There will be a Drop Off zone for cyclist drops-off only.
How will my bicycle get to the start site?
Cyclists who have chosen the 50-mile route for Sunday will have their bicycles transported to the start site on Saturday evening. Volunteers will be at the finish line in Florence to make sure that your bike is ready for you on Sunday morning no matter where you begin the day. All bicycles transported to Sunday start sites will be stored within a secure bike lock-up area with around-the-clock security.
How will my luggage get to the finish site at Sunset Beach?
Simply place your luggage on the shuttle bus that takes you to your start site and when you arrive at your start site drop your luggage at the luggage drop location. Your luggage will be waiting for you at the finish.
What do I need to take with me when I get off the shuttle bus?
After dropping their luggage at the luggage drop sign, cyclists will go directly from the shuttle bus to their bicycles. As soon as the route is opened, cyclists can begin the ride. The start will be a rolling start.
Will there be breakfast served at this start site?
No. This start site will offer the same, simple start site menu that is featured at the Saturday start sites.
Will lunch be served along the 50-mile route?
No. There will be a classic backyard cookout waiting for you at the finish line.
TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS
I forgot my Username and Password.
Remember that your username and password are case sensitive. Click the forgot username or password link on your login page and you will receive an e-mail with your username and/or password immediately. If you still have problems, please contact Mary Saier at mary.saier@nmss.org for help.
How do I change my Username and/or Password?
First, login to the site using your username and password. Once logged in you will see a link at the top of the page called "Update My Profile." Once in your profile, you will be able to change your contact information, email address, username and password. All changes will be made to your account immediately. There is no need to sign in again.
How do I unsubscribe from e-mail?
Towards the bottom of each email message there is a link stating, "Unsubscribe from this E-mail Message."
ABOUT MY PARTICIPANT CENTER
A personal page is an online promotional tool for your use when asking your friends and family to join your team or sponsor you by making donations. Once you sign up for an event online, by default, you will have a personal page created for you. You have the option of personalizing this page by going to your Participant Center. You will be able to customize images, text and the style/color layout of the page.
By default I have a personal page; do I have to change it?
Once you sign up for an event online, by default, you will have a personal page created for you. A compelling personal page attracts and engages supporters. While you can spread the word using customized email solicitations, your personal campaign page can be your own creative expression of your commitment to the cause. Customize your page by selecting the layout and style that work best for you. Use the elements of text, photo and status indicators to their fullest advantage.
How do I change my personal fundraising goal?
First, login to your Participant Center. On the bottom right side of the Participant Center home page is the location to modify your personal fundraising goal. Enter your new goal and submit the changes.
How do I change my team name, team division or team goal?
Only the team captain can change the team name or team division. The team captain will need to login to his/her bike center and click the "My Team Progress" button on the top right. On the Team Progress page, team captains can update the team name, division and goal.
How can I see who has donated to me?
Login to the site using your username and password. Go to your Participant Center and view "My Progress" ; this will allow you to view your donor list and any amounts donated.
How can I see who is on my team?
Login to the site using your username and password. Go to your Participant Center and view the "Team Progress." This will allow you to see your team roster and the amounts raised by each team member.
What is a team message?
Team Captains can send a message to the entire team. Simply go to your Participant Center and view the "Update Message to Team." This will allow you to make all necessary changes to your team message.
What is the difference between making my personal page private or public?
By default, a personal page is public, meaning your name will appear in the participant search list, and anyone accessing the site will be able to support you. Setting your personal page to “private” means your name will not appear in the participant search list, and only people you personally invite will be able to support you.
What if I have more questions?
For more information, contact the National MS Society, (704) 525-5906.