Cassandra Davis, left and Mark Dunn of Team Pango of Lake Brandon were among the more than 1,500 that took part in the Annual Bike MS: The Citrus Tour, a two-day cycling event to raise money and support the fight against Multiple Sclerosis.
Mid Florida Chapter of the National MS Society spokes person Meagan Mills was pleased to announce the successful participation of more than 1,500 from around the state, who mounted their bicycles and paddled the 2012 Bike MS: The Citrus Tour last month, thus showing their support of the effort to raise money and fight against Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
While the unpleasant, stormy weather made things a bit difficult, it was not enough to halt the crowd of supporters, among them Brandon-based, Team Pango, whose members have also braved the elements and successfully completed the scheduled two day route, raising $16,988 for those who are suffering with Multiple Sclerosis.
“We celebrate the 25th anniversary of the event for the Mid Florida Chapter and the third year of our increasingly popular Citrus Tour route,” said Mills. “We’re so thankful to the Florida cycling community, the media such as the Osprey Observer and all those who have helped to make this event one of the premier cycling events of the year and, for supporting our fundraising efforts.”
Last year, more than 1,500 cyclists raised more than $921,569.
The annual event began at the historic Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida as riders chose a 50, 75 or 100-mile route to arrive at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, and enjoy dinner held in their honor.
On day two, the route reverses with a choice of a 50 or 75 mile return route to Bok Tower Gardens where the two-day event culminates in a Finish Line Victory Picnic.
“All the funds raised goes toward the overall fundraising goal of $966,000 for the Mid Florida Chapter of the National MS Society to fund programs and research for our those in our community affected by the disease,” Mills said.
In march the Mid Florida Chapter also hosted its annual Walk MS event in eight central Florida locations.
“The two events are the biggest annual fundraisers for the National MS Society’s Mid Florida chapter, which last year generated more than $1.3 million in the fight to cure MS,” said Mid Florida chapter president Carroll Franklin.
For more information about Walk MS, call 407-478-8882, ext. 27. For more information about Bike MS: The Citrus Tour, call 813-889-8363, ext. 201.
