MS Global 2014, an annual charitable bicycle tour founded by retired professional cyclist Tyler Hamilton to make a difference for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), will be held in the mountains and valleys of western North Carolina from Sept. 28 to Oct.5. Taking place in some of the most scenic regions of the country, the weeklong cycling event has partnered with Can Do Multiple Sclerosis (Can Do MS), a national nonprofit providing comprehensive programs that empower people and families living with MS to transform and improve their quality of life. The organization honors the legacy of founder Jimmie Heuga, a close friend to Hamilton and a pioneer in the MS care management field who was diagnosed with MS in 1970.
This year’s event will be based at the Crowne Plaza Resort in Asheville, N.C., and attended by approximately 25 fundraising riders. Between ride leaders, support people and volunteers, the total group is will include more than 40 people, including riders with MS.
“We always looked forward to the day when we would support the organization Jimmie had founded,” said Hamilton’s father Bill, Producer for MS Global. “That time is now, and we take great pleasure in helping Can Do MS continue with the mission that was Jimmie Heuga’s dream.”
“My dad and I are so excited to bring MS Global to one of the best and most beautiful places in the world for cycling,” says Hamilton, who will participate as one of the tour’s 12 ride leaders. “I fell in love with Asheville when I raced here back in the mid-nineties and I’m thrilled to be back for this rewarding event to help raise MS awareness, provide lifestyle empowerment programs for families living with MS and further what Jimmie started 30 years ago.”
For the past 11 years, MS Global has served to make a difference in the lives of people fighting MS and increase visibility for MS at each year’s hosting location. Previous tours have led riders up and over the Alps of France and Switzerland, the Pyrenees of Spain, the Dolomites of Italy, the Canadian Rockies, the peaks and valleys of Northern California, and more.
This year’s participants include cycling enthusiasts from across the country who pledge to fundraise a minimum of $3,700 each or $5,550 per couple with 100% of proceeds directly benefitting Can Do MS.
MS Global also has day rider availability for those who raise a minimum of $500. The fundraising goal for this year’s event is $125,000.
MS Global 2014 is co-hosted by Tyler Hamilton Training and generously supported by sponsors
EMD Serono, Biogen Idec, Magtek, Clif Bar, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Questcor Pharmaceuticals, CCL Label and others.
To make a donation to Can Do MS and MS Global riders, please visit www.mscando.org/msglobal. For more information on Day Rides, please contact billham123@verizon.net.