The ninth annual A Reason To Ride for Cancer Research, presented by Fuddruckers, will be held on Sunday, September 11 at 8:00 a.m. at 75 Sylvan Street in Danvers. The funds raised by the ride since it started in 2008 have supported research initiatives and lab researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Last year, more than 185 cyclists rode 10-, 25- or 50-mile rides on a spectacular coastal route along North Shore towns starting in Danvers, and biking into Wenham, Hamilton, Essex, Manchester by the Sea, Gloucester, Ipswich, Georgetown and Topsfield, raising more than $65,000.
Each year the ride draws an increasing number of riders, participants, and supporters and has surpassed its ambitious fundraising goals. “The ride is very emotional for me as a cancer survivor,” states Tom DesFosses, founder of A Reason to Ride “The thrill I get seeing so many riders, volunteers, and businesses join us year after year is hard to put into words. The ride is an incredible journey, whether you are participating for yourself, a loved one, or in memory of someone passed. To know that you are impacting and contributing to life-saving cancer research is reason enough for me to get on my bike year after year.”
There is something for everyone at A Reason to Ride, from leisure cyclists to serious riders, and everything in between. This year, registrants will have a choice to participate in a new 5K walk to help raise funds and awareness. The popular Trike-a-Thon for youngsters will also be back. Registration is $25 per child, $75 per adult, and $150 per family to benefit cancer care and research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. The family-friendly event also includes a Fuddruckers cookout, raffles, music, and much more.
This year’s ride is dedicated to Deb Brown, a gifted artist, wife, daughter, and friend. Brown was diagnosed with Primary CNS Lymphoma in the summer of 2015. Nine months later, with a determined spirit and the support of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, she is in remission and living life to its fullest. To learn more about Brown, visit http://www.areasontoride.com/AboutDeb.pdf.
Once again, this year’s presenting sponsor is Fuddruckers. Support for the ride also comes from NovaCure, The Print House, Jungle Prints, Brookwood Financial Partners, Herb Chambers Auto Dealerships, Starbucks, Beverly Cycles, Dick’s Sporting Goods, O’Neill’s Authentic Irish Pub & Restaurant, Woody’s Cyclery, Garden City Pub, EBSCO Information Services, and Dunkin Donuts. To become a sponsor or make contributions contact Tom DesFosses at (508) 932-3677 or tomdesfosses@gmail.com. Please visit http://www.firstgiving.com/areasontoride/2016 to register for this year’s ride.