Threatening weather in Golden, Colo., didn't stop motorcyclists from raising more than $56,000 at the area's fifth annual Ride for Kids®.
Heritage Square Park was the meeting spot for more than 160 riders and supporters. Early hail and rain gave way to blue skies for the police-escorted event, which followed winding mountain roads into the Front Range with wide vistas of snow-capped peaks.
Four local brain tumor patients, including Shelby, 12, and PBTF scholarship recipient Brystal, 21, were the stars of the day. The Celebration of Life program featured their stories as well as words from parents and the local medical community.
Pediatric oncology nurse practitioner Jody Dickerson expressed her gratitude, as did Dr. Lea Gore, a pediatric oncologist from Children's Hospital in Denver. "The funds PBTF provides creates miracles," Dr. Gore told the appreciative crowd.
The event raised a total of $56,200. Pam McCombs brought $8,527 to become the top individual fundraiser, while members of the top chapter/club, BMW Motorcycle Club of Colorado, raised $12,128. The top motorcycle business was Apex Sports with $11,287 in customer donations. The grand prize, a Honda motorcycle, went to Linda Shelley of Elbert, Colo.
Many thanks to Colorado's hardworking task force, led by P.J. Wilderman and Chris Spanos. They and their event volunteers organized a terrific event.
