The Eastern North Carolina Chapter of the National MS Society is excited to announce that the 2009 Bike MS event raised $1.7 Million

Thousands Attended 21st Annual Event in New Bern

The Eastern North Carolina Chapter of the National MS Society is excited to announce that the 2009 Bike MS event raised $1,736,537 to create a world free of MS. Over 2,400 cyclists and 300 volunteers participated in the Historic New Bern Ride. Over 70% of those participants traveled from the Triangle for the September event. This year’s fundraising exceeded last year’s total and this year’s estimated goal by almost $200,000.

“This represents a lot of people pulling together for a very important purpose and doing it in an exceptional manner,” said Jeff Furst, President of the Eastern North Carolina Chapter. “This feat is going to touch and help so many people living with MS.”

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 2010 Bike MS event is scheduled for September 11-12 in New Bern.

For more information, registration and event sponsorship, visit www.msbike.org or call 1-800 FIGHT MS.

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