Boobs + Cancer = Motorcycles?
Hmmm...Haven't been to these forums for a while...but here ya go!
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8Uf0550kR4[/youtube]
The idea for a local ride benefiting cancer research, education, and treatment all began with two Central Illinois women -- Barb Allen and Geri Shurts -- who had ridden in the National Pony Express Tour in 1996. (That year, the Tour - a national fundraising ride for breast cancer research - raised over $317,000.) Together, these two women petitioned the Peoria Memorial Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure to sanction an annual local motorcycle ride.
The first Ride was held May 10, 1997. At that time, the Ride was only open to female riders. The ride started with a ribbon cutting ceremony and included a police escort leading 38 female motorcyclists around Northwoods Mall to the Peoria Motorcycle Club in Bartonville, Illinois. Two pickup trucks from Walters Brothers Harley-Davidson followed in support filled with females who were usually passengers on motorcycles. Another 20 motorcycles with men and women and a cavalcade of 25 automobiles followed at a distance in support of this inaugural ride. Pink commemorative bandannas were given to each rider, thanks to the support of several sponsors.
The second ride on May 9, 1998, was opened to both male and female riders and passengers with a total of 302 registered participants, 168 women and 134 men. On Ride day with great weather, police escort and 174 motorcycles rode In a 20 mile parade from Glen Oak Park to the Peoria Motorcycle Club. The youngest passenger was 5 years old and our oldest passenger and "a breast cancer survivor" was 82 years young.
Over the years the numbers have grown and ride routes have varied. The Ride Committee has seen many changes over the years as members and volunteers have come and gone over the years. The starting points and ending points have varied over the years. Weather has varied over the years from very cold temperatures to drenching down pours of rain to gorgeous rides with sunshine and warm temperatures. Each year law enforcements officers have given escort and assisted the Ride Committee to insure the safety of all participants.
Sponsors, whether they are businesses or families donating in memory of a loved one have been very generous over the years to cover the expenses of the ride. With the generosity of the participants, the ride has continually raised more funds for research, education, and treatment of breast cancer.
