I started riding the MS150 with Team BP seven years ago when the event was mentioned to me by a former BP employee, and I thought “That could be fun, and a good way to get in shape while making some new friends.”

Originally it was just a challenge. But since I have started, I have met people afflicted with MS, and it has made the ride much more than a social event and physical training.

Today, I have a good friend who lives with MS, and the ride has become much more personal.

I have become more involved in the movement to fight this debilitating disease, at first as a ride marshal, then helping in the training series, now as Team BP co-captain. I accepted the challenge to be a co-captain because I would like to see the team exceed our fund raising goals and still have a fun, safe and rewarding experience for each rider.

The feeling you get when you cross the finish line is the reason many riders continue to ride each year.  I’m hoping the feeling you get when you know you have just helped save a life, or make someone’s life a little less stressful, will help Team BP set another fundraising record in 2010.  This challenge will continue into the future with the drive to exceed our contributions from year to year.

As a final word coming from a seasoned ride marshal, remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility. “Let’s keep the helmet side up and the rubber side down!”