In October, premier cycling events are happening across Florida, including two Bike MS events benefitting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. One takes you into the Keys. The other starts in Ponte Verda Beach. And a third Bike MS ride takes place in April along the Gulf Coast. All three have panoramic ocean view routes.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has an inspiring story about its founding. Sylvia Lawry’s brother, Bernard, was diagnosed with MS in the 1940s. Very little was known about the disease, even among doctors and scientists. Their family was told there was no treatment available, much less a cure.
Here is Sylvia, in the above photo. One woman, who refused to accept that nothing could be done for her brother and others afflicted with MS. In 1946, Sylvia gathered 20 of the nation’s most prominent researchers and founded the organization that would become the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Now, 80 years later, the question is no longer if MS can be ended — but rather how quickly.
Each year, nearly 35,000 participants and more than 3,500 teams take part in Bike MS events across the U.S., raising millions of dollars and awareness to support advocacy, research, and resources for people living with MS. I have ridden in two Bike MS events over the years in honor of my friends who have battled this disease.
As avid cyclists, the Bike MS events in Florida are an opportunity for us to make a difference. There is the usual registration fee, plus a minimum $300 to raise in donations. Florida Cycling Newsletter has arranged for our subscribers to receive a 25% discount off the $70 registration fee. The discount code is BIKEMSFL. (Note: the early registration fee for the April Bike MS is currently only $20).
The Bike MS Florida events
North on the Jacksonville/St. Augustine Atlantic coast to Daytona Beach.
South from Marathon to Key Largo.
West in Sarasota County on the Gulf Coast.
Route lengths for these three Bike MS events vary from 21, 24, 36, 59, 77, to 100 miles, making it doable for cyclists who want to challenge themselves to a longer distance or those who want to enjoy a less strenuous distance.
Each event has a route and amenities to remember. For example, here is what the “Bike MS: Breakaway to the Keys” has to offer.
Ride the scenic Overseas Highway, where the ocean surrounds you mile after mile.
Finish Day 1 at the beautiful Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club in Marathon, a premier waterfront destination in the heart of the Keys.
Celebrate at the Team Village Post-Ride Party, featuring great food, music, and the camaraderie that makes Bike MS so special.
Watch a spectacular sunset over the marina before relaxing and anticipating another day of riding.
Enjoy a two-day island adventure, returning to Key Largo while taking in even more of the stunning coastal scenery of the Florida Keys.
When registering, consider joining a team. It is so much more enjoyable to ride with others. You can search what teams have already registered and select one to join.
Here’s an alternate option
For those whose schedule won’t allow you to ride on one of the dates or locations - you can ride virtually. When you register choose the “Ride Virtual” option. You can even form a team to invite family, friends and coworkers (even in another state) to join with you in riding at a time and location of their own choosing and still support the MS cause.
Year-round, Florida Cycling provides a comprehensive list for other cycling events across Florida and surrounding states. It includes road, MTB, gravel and triathlons.
Register. Raise funds. Ride. Make a difference. Well done.
Ride often. Be safe.
Bruce