Bike ride raises funds to fight multiple sclerosis

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is hosting its 24th annual Bike MS: Pedal to the Point Ride 2010 Aug. 14 and 15. Cyclists and volunteers are asked to share the challenge to help create a world free of multiple sclerosis.

More than 2,200 riders and 500 volunteers are expected to participate in the Bike MS event, presented by Giant Eagle. Cyclists begin their journey at Polaris Career Center in Middleburg Heights Aug. 14. The majority of riders travel 75 miles to Sandusky and then make the return trip back to Middleburg Heights Aug. 15.

For information, visit www.MSohiobuckeye.org or call Lindsay Fairchild at 216-503-4161.

There are several route options (30, 75, 100 and 150 miles) so riders of any age, experience and ability level can register to ride. The route is fully supported with frequent rest stops and an abundance of food along with medical and mechanical support.

The 30-mile route is for first time riders or those who want a less strenuous trip. Riders who cycle 30 miles ride with the rest of the cyclists to the lunch stop, located at the Lorain County Joint Vocational School in Oberlin. New riders receive free registration until Aug. 1.

Cyclists who ride for two days and collect a minimum of $250 in contributions by the day of the ride are rewarded with a ticket to Cedar Point or Soak City upon their arrival in Sandusky. Participants will receive additional prizes and special achievement awards by raising additional dollars.

The goal of Bike MS: Pedal to the Point Ride 2010 is to raise $1.3 million to fund quality-of-life programs and services for people with multiple sclerosis and to fund MS-related research efforts to find a cure for this chronic, unpredictable disease.