In order to raise money for those with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the National MS Society is hosting its 35th annual bike race this weekend.
Bike MS: Tour de Farms is a cycling series is DeKalb, Ill., where participants can ride for one or two days, and choose from several challenging routes, ranging from 15 to 200 miles. Beginning 7 a.m. Saturday at the Northern Illinois University Convocation Center, riders can choose from six route options, and will pass several local farms where they can stop and visit with the animals.
After Saturday’s ride, a festival will take place at NIU, and will feature free food, live music and a beer garden. Sunday morning, cyclists will receive a hearty breakfast, and the competition will pick back up at 7 a.m. with four route options.
On every route, there will be a rest stop every 10-12 miles, along with lunch stops, safety provided by medical personal, HAM radio operators, law enforcement and motorcycle escorts.
Each participant is expected to fundraise $300 to go towards MS research, programs and services. Every year, the event has raised over $1.6 million, and they have reached 70 percent of that goal so far this year. Registration is $80.
“You’ll experience an incredible level of camaraderie as you embark on a journey filled with laughter, excitement, support and a profound sense of accomplishment,” the event website says. “Your participation will drive MS research forward faster, and deliver programs and services to those who face the challenges of MS every day.”
