Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2005. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Bay Windows - April 7, 2005
Ethan Jacobs, ejacobs@baywindows.com.
The 175-mile ride, which takes place Aug. 13-14, raises money for 13 different HIV/AIDS organizations across Massachusetts, including AIDS Action, JRI Health, the Multicultural AIDS Coalition, and Cambridge Cares About AIDS. Genser said the event is designed to ensure that the bulk of the funds raised go directly to the organizations organizing the ride.
Last year the ride raised just shy of $300,000, and this year Genser said organizers hope to top $400,000.
Riders will tour across the state, starting in the Berkshires, passing through the Northampton/Amherst area, and over the Quabbin Reservoir. Next the riders will pass through towns in the Metrowest area, finishing the ride in Weston. Seasoned pros can make the two-day trek, but for those of more modest abilities Mass Red Ribbon Ride offers the option to ride for one day on a 50, 75, or 100 mile route. Genser said the various distance options, as well as the team spirit among the riders, ensures that even riders with modest athletic ability will be able to participate in the event.
"We'll help you and the rest of the community will help you do this, so if you have the will and drive it's definitely possible," she explained.
Riders band together in teams of three or more both to help fundraise and to begin training for the event. Genser explained that people can join teams to help with fundraising even if they will not be participating as riders. For two-day riders organizers set a minimum fundraising goal of $1800, and for one-day riders the minimum goal is $10 per mile.
People can sign up for the ride right up until the day of the event, but Genser urged people to sign up as soon as possible to allow them to take part in pre-ride training and other activities. On April 12 at 6 p.m. organizers will hold a dessert social and information session at AIDS Action's offices at 294 Washington St. to allow people interested in getting involved to learn more about the ride and speak with some of last year's participants.
For more information visit www.MassRedRibbonRide.org. To sign up, e-mail bikeride@aac.org or call 1-888-MassRide or 617-450-1100.
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