Everyone was a winner at the third annual Las Vegas Ride for Kids® on Sept. 30, when 400 motorcyclists and supporters raised $55,193 for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. Proceeds benefit medical research and family support programs.
The gorgeous day matched the crowd's spirits as they gathered at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. On the way to Blue Diamond, Nev., the police-escorted riders were treated to incredible vistas of Red Rock Canyon and the desert mountains.
When the ride reached its destination, eight local brain tumor patients took the stage to share their inspirational stories. These "stars" included Kendall, 8, and PBTF scholarship recipient Devin, 18.
Two local oncologists, Dr. Jonathan Bernstein and Dr. Ron Kline, told the motorcyclists that their fundraising efforts are making a big difference.
"Thanks to you, we are curing more kids with less invasive treatments so they can have not just life, but quality of life," said Dr. Kline.
Other special guests included motorcycle racing world champion "Fast Freddie" Spencer, singer/songwriter George Dare, and local radio personality Lorrin Bond.
Top fundraiser honors went to Peggy Sanders of Las Vegas, who brought $6,762. GWRRA NV Chapter A was the top chapter/club with $6,865, and the customers of Carter Powersports of Las Vegas made it the top motorcycle dealer with $19,479 in contributions. The grand prize Honda motorcycle went to Donna and Walter Young of Elko, Nev.
Special thanks went to the 2007 task force leaders, Charli and Dave Carter and Tammy and Ron Palmer, along with visitation leader Bill Foster. They and their hardworking volunteers made this event possible.
