Bikers from 35 states to ride for breast cancer

Bikers from across four time zones and 35 states will rev their engines at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, in a nation-wide poker run called “For You We Ride” to raise funds for breast cancer.

Riders Harley-Davidson of Trussville is one of five dealerships in Alabama and nearly 90 national dealerships participating in the national ride, which will raise money for more than 20 breast cancer assistance charities. Funds raised in Alabama will go to Decatur-based Journey of Faith, which gives away 100 percent of funds raised.

“We’ve had a lot of response. I think we’ll have a better turnout than normal on this ride,” said Shawna Corley, Riders Harley-Davidson marketing director. “Obviously breast cancer is a great cause, and the biker community is always willing to rise for a cause to raise money.”

The ride grows out of an event in Oklahoma started by Rhonda Thompson and Becca Warren of Event Solutions LLC, after losing their mother to breast cancer five years ago. It is now expanding as an inaugural national ride.

“It’s about putting help in a patient’s hands right now when they need it the most,” Thompson said. “Our mom was a recipient of assistance when she was going through treatment, and when she passed away we realized how big of deal that was.”

Riders Harley-Davidson was the first dealership to sign on to the ride, according to Thompson, who said she sent out emails to more than 600 dealerships nationwide.

Cost for the ride is $25, with 95 percent of all proceeds going to charity, and includes a chance to win a seven-day cruise for two. Riders can register at their local dealership or online at foryouweride.com. 

Riders can also choose to carry a Ribbon of Hope for a survivor, which will be mailed to the survivor after the ride. Various levels of sponsorships are also available online under “Supporting the Event” for those not riding but who wish to donate.