Utica’s 14th Ride for Kids® raised $98,866 for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation® yesterday. More than 480 people were there to cheer on children like Thomas, Vincent, Hunter, Joshua, Vinny, Cassandra, Mackenzie, Cassie, Kevin, and C.J.
The ride began at the volunteer fire department in Deerfield, then went through the Adirondack foothills to reach Old Forge Pavilion in the Town of Webb.
Riders heard from the “stars” and their families during the Celebration of Life program. Thomas’ mother described her 10-year-old’s struggles and thanked everyone for being there.
“This was our first year, and we cannot believe the overwhelming support from these riders,” Cindy said. “[Thomas] is now cancer free … academically, his last report card was the best he has ever received.”
New York State Sen. Joe Griffo was also on hand to show his support. The leading fundraisers in Utica were:
Individuals: Peter Weidman & Judy Laforest, $10,553
Club/Chapter: GWRRA NY-N, $18,674
Motorcycle Business: Sportline Power Products, $24,875
Congratulations to the event’s drawing prize winners: Jim Thompson (Honda motorcycle); John Bereza (Dunlop tire); Danielle Willis (AGV helmet); Clifford Bonesteel (Tourmaster luggage); and Keith Miller (Cardo Systems headset).
Many thanks to the hardworking volunteers who organized this event, led by Ken and Kathy Sweatman and Mike and Lesley Grogan. Please join us on Sunday, July 15, 2012, for the next Utica Ride for Kids®.
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.
