More than 1,500 people 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, including FishHawk’s Team Rockwell, pictured above.
Mid-Florida Chapter of the National MS Society spokesperson, Meagan Mills was pleased to announce the successful participation of more than 1,500 from around the state. Each participant mounted their bicycles and paddled the 2012 Bike MS: The Citrus Tour last month, showing their support of the effort to raise money and fight against Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
“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 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.”
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.
Team Rockwell, with its 50-plus members, most of whom live in the FishHawk community, fundraised more than $85,000 in support of Multiple Sclerosis research, treatment and support.
Team Rockwell was proud of its efforts to round up hundreds of individual and business sponsors, including Rockwell Building Systems, Arthur Rutenberg Homes, Creative Recycling, Busciglio Orthodontics and BB&T.
Last year, more than 1,500 cyclists raised $921,569.
The annual event began at the historic Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales 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 go toward the overall fundraising goal of $966,000 for the Mid Florida Chapter of the National MS Society to fund programs and research for those in our community affected by the disease,” Mills said.
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.
