The Utica Ride for Kids® set another record this year, raising $109,826. The city’s 13th event brought in 8 percent more than the previous year’s ride for the PBTF.
Beautiful riding weather attracted over 500 people to the start point at the Deerfield Volunteer Fire Department. Motorcyclists enjoyed a scenic ride through the forests of the Adirondack foothills on their way to Old Forge Pavilion in the Town of Webb.
Nine brain tumor survivors and their families shared their stories during the Celebration of Life program. Cassandra, 13, said she has been to nine rides and “wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
The Utica ride was escorted by several law enforcement agencies, including the N.Y. State Police. Trooper Dave Olney spoke for his colleagues when he said, “It’s humbling to see the outpouring of support and to be a part of something this huge. It feels good to go from enforcing the law to helping out this great cause.”
The event’s top fundraisers were:
- Individuals: Peter Weidman & Judy Laforest, $10,311
- Club/Chapter: GWRRA NY-N, $24,879
- Motorcycle Business: Sportline Power Products, $24,839
Volunteers are the heart of the Ride for Kids® program, and Utica’s local task force worked hard all year to make this event a success. Many thanks go to the local leadership team of Ken and Kathy Sweatman and Mike and Lesley Grogan.
Plan a fundraiser:Each state requires PBTF to approve your fundraiser, so contact us early in your planning process. The first step is to complete our fundraising application.
