— from Suzanne Olson —
On September 6-7, a group of Orcas Islanders will ride as many as 150 miles to benefit MS research through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Deception Pass Classic. The local riders are Axel Greening, Adia Dolan, Suzanne Olson, Kevin O’Brien and Keenan O’Brien.
Kevin and Suzanne have been riding for MS since 2007 — ever since Nancy O’Brien was diagnosed with MS and Suzanne, who has lived with MS since 1988, was inspired to ride with a little push from her daughter (read the whole story at: nationalmssociety.org/goto/olson). Adia and Axel are joining the ride this year to support Suzanne; Keenan is making this ride to support his mom and for greater MS awareness, his senior project.
The two-day ride starts and finishes at the Mt. Vernon Fairgrounds. The first day’s route takes riders across the LaConnor, Tommy Thompson and Deception Pass bridges with an optional loop through Whidbey Island. Day two climbs Bow Hill and up to Larabee State Park, returning along Padilla Bay and through the Skagit flats. The ride is well supported with MS Society volunteers and the Fairgrounds become a happening festival site for riders and their supporters.
Riders raise money to support MS research, programs and services dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals affected by MS. Each rider must raise at least $250 to support the cause. All donations are tax-deductible.
The Orcas team had planned an event to raise the funds needed but, because of a competing event, has postponed the “2nd Ever Chili Cook-off and Ping-Pong Tournament” until September (date TBA).
To support these riders in their Bike for MS ride, please go to:bikewas.nationalmssociety.org – you can look up each rider by name and make a donation.
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