The BikeMS ride is one of the largest organized charity rides in the U.S., with events held annually from coast to coast to raise money and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis. In 2006 I rode in the MS150 on the 175 mile route to Colorado Springs, then to the Royal Gorge Bridge on day two.

The 2008 route, held June 28 and 29, took us from Front Range Community College in Westminster to Fort Collins via the foothills of Northern Colorado, then a return on day two.

I’m happy to say that our team of 55 members, raised $30,000 for Multiple Sclerosis research and awareness!

Along with rider teams both large and small, the Colorado tour is made possible thanks to the coordination of the MS Society’s Colorado Chapter, plus hundreds of volunteers who donate their time in order to help find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis.

This year, day one’s route traversed the foothills and towns of Northern Colorado before an intense climb up to Horsetooth Reservoir. After an exhilarating decent into Fort Collins riders relaxed on the grounds of Colorado State University enjoying food, fun, and camaraderie.

The second day started with an early morning climb back into the foothills, then into the Boulder Valley before returning to Westminster.

The Colorado weather was perfect with cool mornings and afternoons in the 80s. Hundreds of volunteers manned the rest stops keeping riders fueled and hydrated, mechanics and support vehicles roamed the route seeing that wheels ran smooth, and local police departments ensured the safety of all.

This was a wonderful opportunity to showcase community commitment, make new friends, and work hard for a great cause.

Everyone that rode and volunteered this year deserves the highest praise and recognition for their efforts.

See you next year!

Event info at Bikemscolorado.com and more photos below