Thousands of riders raise money during South Bend's ABATE/MDA ride

By ED ERNSTES
WSBT-TV Report

Tools

Thousands of riders raise money during South Bend's ABATE/MDA ride

Riders participate in the ABATE/Muscular Dystrophy Association fundraiser in South Bend Sunday. (WSBT-TV Photo)

By SBT 24/7 News

Story Created: Sep 6, 2009 at 5:35 PM EST

Story Updated: Sep 10, 2009 at 11:27 AM EST

Roads around South Bend were filled with motorcyclists Sunday as riders participated in the 29th annual ABATE/Muscular Dystrophy Association motorcycle ride for “Jerry's Kids.”

The ride got under way at noon, with a line of bikes several miles long. It took at least 45 minutes for every one of them to clear the starting point at the St. Joseph County fairgrounds.

Among them was Bill King of Lakeville.

“It’s a good cause,” said King. “It’s just fun to ride with these many bikes.”

And coming together for a reason — to raise money for those suffering from muscular dystrophy — was what attracted Lynn Ritchey of Niles.

“Everybody chipping in a little bit, whatever they can afford to help out a good cause,” she said. “And it’s a lot of fun.”

Organizers say at least 4,000 signed on to take part in this ride, but they wouldn’t be surprised if that number went well over 5,000.

Two of those taking part in the ride were Stacey Landrum of South Bend and her nephew Marcus.

Stacey’s brother lost his battle with muscular dystrophy in May, and Marcus also has the disease.

“It’s only been four months since he’s gone,” Landrum said. “But you see how many bikers are coming out.”

All hoping for a cure for the kids, she added.

The motorcyclists were also grateful for all the support they’ve received in the community.

“It’s a great feeling to hear the rumble, and, like I say, to have the camaraderie of your fellow bikers,” said Pierre Lapham of South Bend.

And as Three Rivers rider Lori Trokey participated, she couldn’t agree more.

“There’s nothing like the sound of that many bikes starting at one time and roaring down the road,” Trokey said. “And to look in front of you and see only bikes.”


Check the Web for more about the Jerry Lewis MDA telethon from Las Vegas — and for information on how you can donate.

More Good Stuff

WSBT Weather

icon
Current Temp 44.8
°
More Weather

On Demand

More On Demand

Stock Quotes

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Tonight On WSBTFull Schedule

7.00
Paid Programming
7.30
Jeopardy
8.00
The Mentalist
9.00
48 Hours Mystery
10.00
48 Hours Mystery
11.00
WSBT News
11.35
CSI: NY
12.35
CSI: NY
1.35
CSI: Miami

Question of The Day

Will the new health recommendations for women change your health screening habits?

E-mail your comments. We'll pick some to read during WSBT News at 5.

  • YES
  • NO
Today's Mortgage Rates