Bike to the Bay Sept. 20-21 expected to raise more than $1M
Bike MS: Bike to the Bay presented by NRG Indian River Generating Station and Discover Bank, is set for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 20 and 21. Celebrating its 31st anniversary, Bike to the Bay is the largest and longest-running two-day bike ride in Delaware.
The goal is to raise multiple sclerosis awareness and $1 million to support national multiple sclerosis research as well as programs and services needed by more than 1,550 Delawareans with MS. Bike to the Bay attracts more than 1,500 cyclists who come to enjoy the personal accomplishment and camaraderie of the ride, and who strive to support Delawareans with multiple sclerosis.
The ride covers much of Kent and Sussex counties with a choice of six route options - 17, 50, 75, 100, 150, & 175 miles, and finishes at the towers at Delaware Seashore State Park, just south of Dewey Beach.
“There is an opportunity for every member of the community to join us for our Bike to the Bay event. We offer route options for all skill levels, and if you don’t ride a bike, you can register as a virtual cyclist. Plus we are always looking for volunteers. It’s a great day to give back to an important cause, and celebrate the accomplishments we’ve made in MS care and research,” said Linda Risk, development director at the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Delaware Chapter.
More than 200 MS Society volunteers work tirelessly over the two-day weekend to maintain a safe and enjoyable route for all the cyclists. These volunteers also set up and man rest stops every 8 to 12 miles along the route. Each rest stop is well stocked with beverages, fruit, and high-energy snacks.
Professional bike mechanics and support-and-gear wagons constantly patrol the route for cyclists in need. If necessary, the cyclist and his or her gear can be transported to the end of the ride. Overnight accommodations in local hotels are also available. In other words, the MS Society tries to anticipate and meet the cyclists’ every need.
Fee discounts are available to early registrants. Registration fee schedule is as follows: $45 through Sunday, Aug. 31; $50 through Monday, Sept. 15; $55 after Sept. 15.
In addition to the registration fee, cyclists must meet a minimum pledge of $300. To help the cyclists meet their pledges, the MS Society provides plenty of support and incentive, especially to teams of four or more cyclists.
Team captains can download a captain’s kit with important recruiting and fundraising tips, and are eligible for team photos, top-quality event apparel, and many more great prizes. Register at www.biketothebay.org or call 302-655-5610.
