The seventh annual St. Louis Ride for Kids® raised $70,159 on a clear, crisp morning in Cottleville, Mo. St. Charles Community College hosted the 325 supporters, many of whom toured the area's lush green countryside with a police escort.
Several motorcyclists served as the VIP escorts for the event's 11 "stars," including 3-year-old Chance and Hope, 14. Erin, mother of 11-year-old Brian, said, "Without all that you do, we would not have the hope that we have."
The medical community was represented by PBTF grant recipient Dr. Joshua Rubin, an oncologist and researcher from Washington University School of Medicine. "It is so inspirational to be a part of this event and experience all of your commitment and generosity to this great cause," he said.
The top individual fundraisers were the David Piel Family of Troy, Mo., who brought $7,500. GWRRA MO-Z members raised $9,925 to make it the top club/chapter. They were closely followed by B.O.B. (Brian Ott’s Bikers), who brought $9,903. The top motorcycle business, with $12,670 in customer contributions, was Niehaus Cycle Sales of Litchfield, Ill.
Sam Clary of Troy, Mo., won the grand prize, a new Honda motorcycle.
Many thanks went to the event's task force leaders, Greg Hoette, Norm and Angie Riekena, John and Lorrie Lehmann, and Charlie and Shirley Barnett. Along with a wonderful crew of volunteers, they gave the kids a day to remember
