Baer's biker run from Honesdale to Lackawaxen nets $27K for Multiple Sclerosis
The 14th annual Baer Harley-Davidson Polaris “Ride for the Cure” Multiple Sclerosis Poker Run, held this summer, raised $27,700 to benefit multiple sclerosis research. The 72-mile motorcycle ride started at Baer Sport Center in Honesdale.
Baer Harley-Davidson Polaris, Honesdale Harley Riders/H.O.G. Motorcycle Club, Jim and Sophia Sisco, and Combined Energy Services sponsored the ride held June 26. The results were recently announced.
Over 350 motorcycles gathered for the spectacular run which took them down scenic back roads around Lake Ariel, Lake Wallenpaupack, the D&H Canal, and Lackawaxen River ending at the pavilion at Lackawaxen Fire House Field.They stopped along the way to pick different cards to make up each person's poker hand.
"The generosity of motorcyclists is beyond anything we could ever imagine," Diane Helferich, of Baer Sport Center, said. "This year we had the highest amount raised throughout all of the years. It seems each year we surpass the year before
She said that the money goes to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and is used for research. A representative from NMSS was at the benefit to talk about the foundation and all of the progress they have made.
The poker run funds come partly from 2000 raffle tickets that were sold which included 10 different prizes. Ride entrance fees, raffle baskets, 50/50 tickets sold and donations from local businesses also contribute to the total.
The ride was started 15 years ago by George Baer's grandson, Michael Watson, as a high school senior project.
Helfrich said that what began as a one-year chicken barbeque motorcycle ride to raise money for MS has turned into a 14-year motorcycle Ride For The Cure poker run accumulating into thousands of dollars raised for Multiple Sclerosis.
Trophies and a cash prize were awarded for the top three poker hands, along with the drawing of the 10 gun and other prizes raffle tickets. Live music by R.E.N.O., food, raffles, and 50/50 were enjoyed.
Baer Sport Center, Inc., in a statement, expressed thanks to Honesdale Harley Riders/H.O.G., Hamlin Hawgs, Gospel Warriors Christian Motorcycle Association, Blue Knights PA Chapter #26, Lincoln Rider MC; to the many businesses for monetary sponsorships and gift baskets, and for all of the help and participation from raffle ticket sellers, 50/50 sellers, poker stop card attendants, basket raffle attendants, food cooks and servers.
This article originally appeared on Tri-County Independent: Honesdale bike run nets $27K for Multiple Sclerosis
