229 cyclists left Miami last Friday morning enroute to a wet, cold and blistery Key West to raise money for AIDS related charities in Florida. 100% of all money raised goes to a variety of organizations to help many, many people. 100%! Please check out the Smart Ride website for much more information about the ride. Hundreds more volunteers helped make the ride successful and wonderful. I have heard so many great stories from people involved and was lucky enough to attend the closing ceremonies; that my heart is super warm. Great job everyone! The above photo shows the amount of money raised at the time; it is now thousands more thanks to many donors and volunteers continuing to bring in the money. This post barely scrapes the surface of the 2010 Smart Ride. I cannot do it justice. Patrick closed down Fixed Gears so Max and I could attend the ceramonies. He had also been gone for the last few days as a volunteer mechanic and helped many people with their bicycles along the two day, 165 mile ride. Please also check out the Conch Republic Cyclist who rode the ride and will have a much better post and inside view!
There was a tent to keep the bicycles out of the nasty weather. The loop around the island was canceled and the closing ceremony at the AIDS Memorial at the White Street Pier was moved to the HOV School auditorium.
Crici Stroy-Martin, crew manager and ride committee member, addressing the emotional crowd.
A riderless bike was walked though the crowd as a song was played to pay respect to those who could not ride today. A very emotional moment for many.
Rosie's Bar and Grill was presented the Founder's Award for contintiued service. They have helped with every smartride, helping and feeding many riders and crew. I heard many amazing things about their Friday dinner and Saturday breakfast this year.
Glen Weinzimer, the founder of Smartride. Thank you Glen! Well done.
There were about 16 motorcycles helping to ensure riders are safe on road. Any issue they couldn't handle would quickly have them on the radio to get right vehicles to help out with any situation.
Another shot of all the bicycles trying to stay dry during the ceremonies!
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