Large crowds anticipated for upcoming MS Bike event

By Amber Tompsett

A bigger crowd is expected at this year’s M.S. Bike for multiple sclerosis. The event is open to the community on July 7 in Prince Edward County.

The bike for multiple sclerosis is coming back to Prince Edward County for its second annual tour. Participants can expect more support and participants fighting for the cause this year, said Carrie Gibson of the MS Society.

The bike ride starts at 8 a.m. on July 7at the Prince Edward County Community Centre. The route is 75km and is open to everyone regardless of their fitness level. First aid will be offered throughout the route along with food and rest stops.

“It is a great family event,” said Gibson.

Teams of four or more can register for the bike ride. A registration fee of $25 is required along with a minimum fundraising collection of $300 per person. Teams are also eligible to win extra prizes based on their fundraising efforts.

“The money raised gets divided to areas of greatest need,” said Gibson.

The goal for this year is expected to reach $175,000, over 15 percent more than what was raised last year.

Multiple Sclerosis affects 1 in 500 Canadians and this event provides a chance for the community to come together and fight for a cure.

This event not only helps the people dealing with this disease but it also brings tourism to Prince Edward County. Out of the six bike tours in Ontario, Prince Edward County is the most tourist friendly said, Gibson.

The money collected is used in many areas of research and services for people living with multiple sclerosis. MS is the most common neurological disease in Canada and it is still without a cure.

Check- in for the event starts at 7 a.m. on July 7 and the tour begins an hour later. The ride will begin and end at the Community Center.

Once teams finish the tour they will be offered a massage for a job well done, said Gibson.