Riding for Ronald: 2nd Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities Bike Ride, Saturday, June 18

ST. LOUIS, June 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- On Saturday, June 18, 2011, professional cyclists and recreational riders alike will convene at Forest Park to participate in the 2nd Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Metro St. Louis' Bike Ride sponsored by Mercy Children's Hospital. Participants have raised more than $30,000 to be used to help the RMHC of Metro St. Louis provide the comforts of home to more than 1,300 families of seriously ill children traveling to St. Louis for medical care.

Event organizers expect a turnout of 400 riders and 200 volunteers. Last year, the event drew more than 500 involved citizens from St. Louis and surrounding areas.

Angie Mock, the anchor of Fox 2 News in the Morning, will act as Master of Ceremonies. Justin and Kristin Akin, St. Louis residents with a long history of devotion to Ronald McDonald House Charities, are the official heroes of the ride, and will share their story with attendees.

The RMHC Ride has five race options (all races start and end at Forest Park): 6-mile Fun Ride with Ronald McDonald for families, a 32-mile Fitness Challenge, 62-Mile Metric Century, 100-mile Century, and our newest route—the Century Fondo—a timed century ride complete with rally stops and prizes. Those completing their rides will receive an RMHC Finisher's Medal; awards for our largest fundraisers will also be given. Food and drink will be available all day, along with a bike shop, fitness village, massage tent, and kid's area with fun activities.

"In its inaugural year, the Ronald McDonald House Charities Bike Ride brought in more than $175,000 and made it possible for St. Louis' third Ronald McDonald House to provide nutritious meals, warm beds, and other comforts of home to 2,000 families," said Dan Harbaugh, RMHC President. "The continued success of this ride is paramount to our ongoing improvements and programs. This year, our fundraising goal for the ride was set at $365,000. To date, we have raised over $130,000."

Press Contacts:
Andrea Arco
Arco & Associates
636-527-9254
[email protected]

Lindsey Fletcher
314-932-4146

SOURCE Ronald McDonald House Charities of Metro St. Louis