Brissie to the Bay bike ride hits $300K for MS
A new record has been broken with an expected 5000 riders
well on their way to raising $700,000 for MS in this year’s much awaited MS
Brissie to the Bay bike ride on Sunday 24 June.
Celebrating its 21st year riding for multiple
sclerosis (MS), riders can choose from the 10km, 25km, 50km or the more
enduring 100km course all to help vital research into finding a cure for MS.
Over 21,000 Australians have been diagnosed with this incurable,
lifelong disease. It is the most common neurological condition affecting young
adults with five Australians being diagnosed every day.
Many of the cyclists have been affected by MS through
family, friends or relatives and have formed teams to raise money for MS
research and services. Riders of all ages and levels are encouraged to
participate with teams ranging from 4 to 40 members and solo riders all joining
in for a great cause.
“The 10km is a favourite with families while the 25km and
50km distances provide a realistic challenge. The diversity of participants also
makes the ride quite popular with serious to social cyclists alike taking part. Best of all, a number of people with MS are
able to participate – there really is a distance for everyone,” MS Australia –
QLD event manager, Julia Faul said.
“Many riders feel they can combine their passion for riding
and outdoor activities with helping a great cause. Several Brisbane corporates
are building team spirit while others use the day to get family and friends together
while supporting their loved ones with MS.”
MS randomly attacks and scars the protective insulation that
surrounds the nerve fibres (myelin) in the brain and spinal cord however, the
reason for this is unknown. The progress, severity and symptoms are different
for everyone and include mobility, cognitive and vision problems, fatigue, tingling,
numbness and even paralysis.
“The MS Society provides a range of residential facilities,
social support programs and educational resources which are vital in order to maintain
the independence and dignity of people with MS, as well as help their families
with extra support,” Julia said.
The goal is to raise a phenomenal $700,000. Money raised
will help fund the range of services provided by MS Australia – QLD as well as
vital research projects into treatments for MS. With only a month to go until
the big day, fundraisers are well on their way, recently hitting the $300,000
mark.
“This is a fantastic achievement and our participants are
just as enthusiastic as we are about reaching the $700,000 goal. One rider is
waxing his legs to the highest bidder and another has vowed to ride the 100km
in a bunny suit should his fundraising goal be met!” Julia said.
“If each participant is able to raise just a couple of
hundred dollars we’ll reach our target to provide vital services to those
living with this incurable disease,” she said.
Brissie to the Bay launched in 1991 with just 80 riders
taking part. Thanks to the recent
resurgence in cycling popularity, last year more than 5000 riders descended at
dawn to complete the charity ride.
For more information,
images or interviews please contact Melanie Mead,
MS Australia - QLD Media and Communications Manager, on 07 3840 0825, 0423 524
503 or melanie.mead@msqld.org.au
