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Brissie to the Bay bike ride hits $300K for MS

Announcement posted by MS Society of Queensland 29 May 2012

5000 riders on their way to $700K goal

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 21
st 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