The annual Bike MS: Pedal to the Point rolled through the region this past weekend, bringing together more than 500 cyclists for two days of riding in support of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
The ride began early Saturday morning in Berea, where participants departed from Baldwin Wallace University on routes of 35, 75, or 100 miles. Some completed the one-day challenge, catching a shuttle home after the finish, while others rode both days, covering up to 200 miles over the weekend.
I first caught up with the event at Quarry Hill Orchards, one of several rest stops along the route. The scene there was part pit stop, part fall market. Local vendors offered fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items, giving riders and spectators a warm welcome and a chance to relax before heading out again. The crisp air, the smell of apples, and the chatter between cyclists made it feel like a festival tucked into the middle of a long ride.
From Quarry Hill, I made my way to Sawmill Creek Resort in Huron, the finish line for Saturday and home to the weekend’s Rider Village. The grounds were decorated for a Margaritaville-themed celebration, with tents, tables, music, and plenty of space for riders to unwind after a long day.
What stood out was how organized it all felt. On Friday afternoon, I had sent a message to Julie Leggett, President of the Ohio National MS Society, not expecting a reply until the following week. She responded that same evening, during what she described as the busiest night of their year. She and Mary Van Den Broek, a board member and volunteer for more than a decade, still took the time to meet with me on Saturday.
Both women are deeply committed to the mission of the National MS Society. Mary, who lives with MS, has volunteered for years, often working at rest stops. “You see people with MS riding, others volunteering. Everyone is here for the same reason. All the funds go right back into research and helping people with things they need, like accessibility ramps,” she said. Julie described the event as their “Super Bowl,” the culmination of nearly a year of planning, partnerships, and community involvement.
Behind the scenes, the ride depends on hundreds of volunteers, returning sponsors, and local businesses that donate products or services. Everything from Gatorade to post-ride massages is made possible through these partnerships. Sawmill Creek Resort is a key host, providing space and resources to make the Rider Village possible.
By Sunday morning, more than 300 cyclists were back in their saddles for the return ride to Berea, closing out another year of pedaling toward a future without multiple sclerosis. Whether they rode one day or two, 35 miles or 100, every participant and volunteer played a role in advancing that goal.
About the Author
