Motorcyclists set a fundraising record this weekend in San Diego, bringing $64,493 to the fifth annual PBTF Ride for Kids®.
A light mist fell as the 255 participants gathered at Mira Costa College in Cardiff. Eight local brain tumor patients were the “stars” of the day. Several of them accompanied the ride along the southern California coastline.
The weather was warm and sunny as the Celebration of Life program got underway. Fundraisers were inspired by the accomplishments of the stars, including Amanda, who recently graduated summa cum laude from UCLA. She thanked the riders for their contributions, and for helping her attend college with a PBTF scholarship.
In addition to family support, Ride for Kids® funds medical research. Motorcyclists heard about the latest developments from pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Michael Levy and pediatric neurologist Dr. John Crawford.
Ride for Kids® fundraisers fuel these efforts. In San Diego, the top contributors were:
- Individual: Ken Wahlster, $16,244
- Chapter/Club: Starting Gate, $8,088
- Motorcycle Business: Bike Bandit, $16,244
The new Honda motorcycle went to Peter Friedkin of Laguna Niguel, Calif.
Gary Magee, Rick and Patti Hinrichs, and Christian McCart led the hardworking volunteer task force that worked all year to organize the event.
Planning has already begun on next year’s San Diego Ride for Kids®, taking place on Oct. 17, 2010.
| Get a 2009 Ride for Kids® registration kit |
