Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride - 2010 Rider Manual by Laurie Palmer

Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride 2010 Rider Manual

www.bikeMSgeorgia.org Photo courtesy of Atlanta Event Photography

Title Sponsor

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PLATINUM AND GOLD SPONSOSRS

SILVER AND BRONZE SPONSORS

Cox Communications, Inc.

BIKE STORES

MEDIA

Development Staff Ailena Gibby Parramore Director of Special Events Ailena.parramore@nmssga.org Jared Miley Walk MS Development Manager Jared.miley@nmssga.org Cara Misuraco Reeve Special Events Manager Cara.reeve@nmssga.org Amanda Karnik Moran Community Development Manager Amanda.moran@nmssga.org

Program Staff Hilary LaMotte Director of Clinical & Chapter Programs Hilary.lamotte@nmssga.org Kyle Pinion Director of Public Policy & Advocacy Kyle.pinion@nmssga.org Tammy Earnest Senior Manager, Community Programs & Chapter Services Tammy.earnest@nmssga.org

Administrative Staff Nicole Hill Vice President Finance & Administration Nicole.hill@nmssga.org Melissa Polun Operations Manager Melissa.polun@nmssga.org Susie Collins Receptionist Susie.collins@nmssga.org Lynn Runsten Finance Associate Lynn.runsten@nmssga.org Terri Cool Data Entry Associate Terri.cool@nmssga.org

Table of Contents Welcome to Bike MS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 About MS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Where Does the Money Go?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Getting Started: 3 Simple Steps to Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Why Ride Alone?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Fundraising Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Online Success. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Matching Gifts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Top 100 Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Friends and Family. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 On Route Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Official Bike Stores. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Packet Pickup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Street Festival. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Bike MS Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Preparing For The Ride. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Safety Starts With You. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Going The Extra Mile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Champions Against MS Mission Possible Award Tour of Champions Calendar Of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

For more information and team resources, please go to: bikeMSgeorgia.org 1

Welcome to Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride 2010! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve accepted the challenge, and now you are ready for the ride of your life! This Rider Manual is designed to assist you in moving forward and staying motivated, as well as provide you with some great tips for having fun while fundraising.

RIDE WITH US Date: September 11-12, 2010 Location: C allaway Gardens Pine Mountain, GA Title Sponsor: Cox Enterprises

For more information, visit www.bikeMSgeorgia.org or call 678.672.1000. National Multiple Sclerosis Society Georgia Chapter 1117 Perimeter Center West, Suite E101 Atlanta, Georgia 30338 Phone: 678.672.1000 Fax: 678.672.1015 www.nationalMSsociety.org/gaa

We are people who want to do something about MS NOW About MS Multiple sclerosis interrupts the flow of information from the brain to the body and stops people from moving. Every hour in the United States, someone is newly diagnosed with MS, an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving us closer to a world free of MS. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with more than twice as many women as men being diagnosed with the disease. MS affects more than 400,000 people in the U.S., and 2.5 million worldwide. About the National MS Society The National MS Society helps people affected by MS by funding cutting-edge research, driving change through advocacy, facilitating professional education, and providing programs and services designed to help people with MS and their families move their lives forward. Early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your health care professional and contacting the National MS Society at www.nationalMSsociety.org or 1-800-FIGHTMS.

Where does the money go? MS stops people from moving. The National MS Society exists to make sure it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. We do this through our home office and 50-state network of chapters by funding more MS research, providing more services to people with MS, offering more professional education and furthering more advocacy efforts than any other MS organization in the world. Just look at the difference it makes in your own community: Chapter Program & Research Highlights For over 50 years, the Georgia Chapter has been providing hope to nearly 8,500 individuals and families affected by multiple sclerosis in Georgia. The Georgia Chapter provides outstanding, comprehensive programs and support services designed to help people with MS and their families better address the challenges of living with this unpredictable disease. We strive to provide knowledge and assistance to help people with MS to maintain the highest possible quality of life. Offering much needed services and funding top-rated research, our staff and volunteers are dedicated to achieving a world free of MS. Chapter Financial Information 85 cents of every dollar raised in the Georgia Chapter is spent towards ending the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis. The Georgia Chapter depends on community support to fund local programs and accelerate national research projects to identify the cause and cure of MS. We are thankful to our members and their friends, event participants, corporate partners and the general public who help us raise the money to help create a world free of MS.

Getting Started: 3 Simple Steps to Success As a part of the MS movement, you are committed to a world free of MS. We’re committed to you and your Bike MS experiencence. 1. Raising Money (Pages 6-9) Fundraising comes more naturally when you make it personal. Share your story, or ask to share the story of someone riding with you. Don’t forget to ask everyone who sponsors you if their employer offers matching gifts! Remember, you are raising important dollars through Bike MS for vital research and client programs. Ask Boldly! 2. Preparation And Training (Pages 10-18) With a little training and preparation, this event will be an experience you can be proud of. Prepare yourself with general knowledge about the National MS Society and MS, details about the event, and how to prepare for the ride. Bicycling success can be achieved through basic knowledge of hydration and fitness training. Get to know your local bike store representatives, participate in regular training rides, and continue reading for further tips. 3. Really Having Fun! Bike MS can be more than a fundraising event — it can be a joyous celebration of how far we’ve come together! This is an opportunity to share a great experience with friends and family members, or co-workers — a community coming together for a common goal and the accomplishment of a unique personal challenge! Experiencing the Bike MS ride as part of a team can make your experience that much more fun. Continue reading for more information on joining or forming a team.

Benefits to Moving Together 1. Teamwork and Team Building 2. Corporate Pride and Employee Retention 3. Fantastic Marketing Opportunity 4. Strong Community Relationships Built Through Community Involvement 5. Creates Health Conscious Employees and Community 6. Team Fundraising Makes Asking for Donations Easier 7. It’s More Fun at the Event!

Why Ride Alone? There are many benefits to forming and riding on a team. It’s is a lot of fun! Riding in the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride is more enjoyable when you have a group of teammates to support and encourage you along the way. When you form a team, training and fundraising is easier and more fun leading up to the event as you work together toward your goals. Plus, there are great perks to riding with a team, including the opportunity to have a team tent at the overnight celebration, team jerseys and more! Everyone loves to win! Teams can compete for top awards Encourage team building! Team involvement is a great way to network within your company and in the corporate community. It is an opportunity to meet people you normally would only pass at the copier or in the elevator. By forming a corporate team you can give your co-workers or employees the opportunity to work together towards a goal in a fun, social setting. Enhance moral and employee retention! Company involvement promotes loyalty among employees and general goodwill within the company. Participation as a team encourages community involvement and camaraderie. Working together to achieve a common goal brings everyone together. Increase Recognition! Your marketing department will thank you for the additional exposure your company will receive. More than 1,500 event participants, along with over 500 volunteers, the media and lots of our supporters will see your team. By wearing company jerseys, you can gain valuable exposure. INTERESTED IN FORMING A TEAM? Call the National MS Society – Georgia Chapter office at 678-672-1000. Team Captain Manuals can be provided with recruitment ideas, fundraising and training tips. Team Captains will also receive team captain e-mails with tips and advice on team recruitment and fundraising. National MS Society Staff are also available to visit your company to promote the Ride and meet with your management team. Schedule a “Lunch & Learn” session at your company to encourage team growth and answer questions for prospective recruits. The National MS Society is here to help every step of the way!

Fundraising Tips The Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride is more than just a bike ride — it’s a bike ride with a mission. The National MS Society is dedicated to ending the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis and as a rider, you will help us reach this goal. The average participant goes above and beyond the minimum pledge amount of $250. Learn new ways to meet your fundraising goals.

The Basics ∫

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Set Goals! Determine a personal goal and let your supporters know what dollar amount you are aspiring to reach. Have Enthusiasm! Excitement shows potential donors that you are enthusiastic about their support. Share Why You Ride! If you are riding in honor of a loved one with MS, include their story and picture in any letters or emails that you send out. If you don’t have a personal connection to MS, contact the National MS Society, Georgia Chapter to find out about the Champions Against MS program. Show Commitment! Make the first pledge yourself. Don’t Apologize! You are doing something good for the community, so don’t apologize for asking for support. People will respect you for the commitment you’ve made to a worthy cause. Make a List of Places That You Spend Money! Donations to the National MS Society are tax deductible, and we will be glad to provide receipts. Do not forget doctors, dry cleaners, dentists, hairdressers, mechanics and your favorite restaurants! Send Letters & Emails! Send an announcement of your plan to participate to friends, business associates, church members, family and old acquaintances. Do not forget companies, organizations and school newsletters! Get Educated! You can contact the National MS Society, Georgia Chapter

and request useful materials full of information. Also, visit www.nationalms society.org/gaa for more information.

Going The Extra Mile ∫

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Have A Party! For a donation, throw a party. Host a dinner party and treat your guests to a home-cooked meal in exchange for a donation to your cause; throw a birthday party for someone, but instruct guests to give donations to the ride, in lieu of gifts. Go Out! Organize a night out at a local restaurant or bar where a portion of the proceeds go to your efforts. Get a band that is willing to donate their services and charge a cover at the door. Host An Event At Work! The office is a great place to get people to support your efforts. With permission, raffle off tickets for either a day off or a parking space close to the door. Have employees pay a fee to be able to dress down one day. Create a challenge between offices or departments. Pin-Up Sales: If you work somewhere with lots of foot traffic, ask about Bike MS pin-up sales — an easy way to quickly raise money. Speak At A Civic Organization Or Place Of Worship! Ask to be placed on the agenda at the next meeting or service. Ask the group to vote to support your effort, join your team or be volunteers! Sell Something! Join forces with your team members to host an auction, garage sale, or bake sale.

Simple Steps To Online Success My Participant Center 1. Set up your Personal Web Page Your personal web page is your invitation to the world to become involved in the movement. By setting up a web page, you are setting yourself up for success. Here are a few hints to help make your page one to remember: ∫ Make it personal – Put in a picture of you or your team. Write your story and how you are moving toward a world free of MS. While there is sample text available, nothing is more compelling than your own words. ∫ Change it often – Keep your page current to generate interest. Provide updates on how your training is going or how close you are to your goal through the blog feature. ∫ Create a url shortcut – By doing this you will be able to easily direct people to your page. Put a link to your fundraising page in the signature of your email. 2. Fundraise online – Now for the fun part! After you send your personalized e-mail to all your friends, family and colleagues, you can watch your up-to-theminute fundraising tracker. Our online tools make it simple for your supporters to donate online to keep you moving toward your fundraising goals. 3. Encourage others to join you! Encourage your friends & family to join you as a rider or volunteer by registering online. If you are part of a team, direct them to the team’s web page for easy registration.

Online Resources The Bike MS website has a plethora of helpful information to assist you in your fundraising and training efforts. The following items are available for download at www.bikeMSgeorgia.org: ∫ ∫ ∫ ∫ ∫ ∫ ∫

Bike MS Guide to Training and Nutrition My Participant Center How-To Guide Registration and Pledge Forms Route Maps and Cue Sheets Event Schedule Sample Fundraising Letters Event and Society Logos

Double Your Pledges With Matching Gifts! Many companies sponsor matching gift programs to encourage employees to support numerous charities and non-profit organizations. Most companies match dollar for dollar and some may even double or triple match a donor’s gift. By informing your donors of this opportunity, you could greatly increase your fundraising total with little effort.

Helpful Tips for Matching Gifts ∫

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Spread the Word About Matching Gifts: Encourage all of your event donors to see if their company participates in a matching gift program. Please remind your donors to include information on whose event campaign they are supporting so the gift will be credited to the correct event participant’s account. Have Matching Gift Forms When You Approach Your Coworkers: If your company participates in a matching gift program, have the forms available when you approach your coworkers to donate. When a coworker makes a contribution, you can hand them a form to complete. The Earlier the Better: Providing the matching gift forms on the weekend of the event or even before will ensure that your matching gift will be included with your current year’s total. To assist us in the process, please include a copy of your pledge form for the National MS Society to reference.

TOP 100 CLUB The Top 100 Club is an exclusive club available to fundraisers who achieve the highest fundraising pledges among all participants of the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride. Ranking for the 2011 Top 100 Club will be based on participantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2010 fundraising and will be tabulated as of the deadline of December 31, 2010. There is no fixed dollar amount that guarantees club membership. To find out more about this special club, and the exclusive benefits available to club members, visit the website at www.bikeMSgeorgia.org. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society would not be able to fund cutting-edge research, provide services, host programs, or educate healthcare professionals and the public if it were not for the extraordinary fundraising efforts of those who support Bike MS rides in Georgia. Once again, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to show our appreciation to the 2010 Top 100 Club: Amt Ranking Name Raised 1 Cherise Mlott $17,873 2 Kevin Kuntz $17,295 3 Dan Yuhaschek $14,950 4 Kevin Drummond $10,047 5 Michael Dresdner $9,498 6 Lance Liggin $7,735 7 Scott Stafford $6,890 8 Tommy Hanks $6,771 9 David Small $6,570 10 Matt Calamari $6,125 11 Kevin Ketts $5,630 12 Daniel Shim $5,502 13 J. Paul Oxer $5,025 14 David Cohen $4,410 15 Bill Holley $4,270 16 Catherine LeMay $4,240 17 Leslie Paulsen $4,220 18 Mike Parrish $4,105 19 Shena Tharnish $4,105 20 Catharine Cato $4,013 21 Christopher Uher $3,791 22 Barry Nash $3,751 23 Joshua Benton $3,555 24 Jeanne Slagel $3,365 25 Jeff Paske $3,325 26 Jacquie Tatman $3,131 27 Jan Saperstein $3,090 28 Guy Tucker $2,965 29 Erin Hawkins $2,963 30 Harald Walter $2,875 31 Richard Arch $2,845 32 Glenn Mason $2,795 33 Susan Fulkerson $2,785

Ranking Name 34 Jeffrey Lund 35 Zev Yanovich 36 Sonja Rasmussen 37 Garnie Nygren 38 Eve Kofsky 39 Robin Keebler 40 Diane Heller 41 Paul Barrie 42 William Stinson 43 Bart Mitchell 44 Matthew Tallman 45 Jennifer Murkison 46 Bob King 47 Bert Reese 48 Eric Williams 49 William Plough 50 Brent Mlott 51 Kevin Treanor 52 Alex Herr 53 Patrick Enyart 54 Angela Black 55 Christopher Griggs 56 Mark Neville 57 William Dyer 58 Smith Levenson 59 Maureen Horgan 60 Christiana Muntzel 61 Ashley Thomas 62 Richard Griffths 63 Michael Ezzell 64 Todd Smiley 65 Curtis Mcllvain 66 Jerry Burns 67 Brad Nash

Amt Raised $2,744 $2,666 $2,660 $2,650 $2,640 $2,625 $2,580 $2,575 $2,575 $2,500 $2,500 $2,480 $2,450 $2,407 $2,400 $2,395 $2,350 $2,215 $2,205 $2,200 $2,175 $2,170 $2,150 $2,131 $2,090 $2,070 $2,065 $2,065 $2,060 $2,000 $1,990 $1,980 $1,975 $1,950

Ranking Name 68 Sean Baxter 69 Ray Shaddick 70 Michael Klein 71 Jim Heilbron 72 Gayle Kruger 73 Mary Lynn Butler 74 John Stamey 75 Karyn Levesque 76 Bob Broome 77 Arlen Gray 78 Bob Kendall 79 Kathy Miller 80 Charles Bible 81 Kristin Miller 82 Robert Moody 83 Cinda Stamey 84 Carl Bennett 85 Jack Hawkins 86 Kathy Slough 87 Daniel Coats 88 Juanice Christian 89 Lily Patel 90 Ellen Ressel 91 Donna Ross 92 Starr Bryne 93 Timothy Kennedy 94 Ryan Scheinfeld 95 Clay Stafford 96 Cliff Hagan 97 Kim Stirner 98 Christopher Hauck 99 Julie Opraseuth 100 Steve Webb

Amt Raised $1,932 $1,930 $1,851 $1,850 $1,850 $1,840 $1,820 $1,760 $1,706 $1,660 $1,655 $1,635 $1,545 $1,540 $1,525 $1,520 $1,501 $1,470 $1,455 $1,430 $1,423 $1,416 $1,395 $1,363 $1,250 $1,350 $1,345 $1,340 $1,325 $1,324 $1,310 $1,310 $1,304

General Information More detailed information on the following topics can be found at www.bikeMSgeorgia.org. Minimum Age Requirement: The minimum age to participate is 12 years old at the time of the ride. For the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride 2010, riders must be 12 years old by September 11, 2010. Safety Restrictions: Equipment and accessories attached to bicycles for transporting children and/or pets are not allowed. This includes, but is not limited to, bicycle trailers, Tag-Along or Trail-a-Bike products, and child carrier seats. Packet Pickup and Rider Packets: All riders must pick up a Rider Packet at the Packet Pickup prior to the ride (please review page 14 for more information). The minimum pledge commitment of $250 is due prior to or at the Packet Pickup. Rider Services Centers: For any questions that you may have regarding the bike ride during the event, the Rider Services Center will be able to help you. A location will be available at the Packet Pickup as well as at the Start/Finish. Accommodations: Riders are responsible for arranging hotel accommodations during the ride. Several area hotels have been secured with special rates for the weekend including the official host accommodations, Callaway Gardens. A dedicated, free camping area will also be available. Start/Finish Location: The start and finish lines for the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride will be located at the Beach Entrance at Callaway Gardens. Ride Schedule: The ride will start on Saturday, September 11th at 8:00 a.m. Day two begins on Sunday, September 12th at 8:00 a.m. Riders are encouraged not to leave the start line early as there is no support on the route prior to start times. Food And Beverage: Food and beverages are provided throughout the ride to all participants. Break points will provide water, sport drinks, fruit and snacks. Lunch will be provided on the route on day one. Day one breakfast and dinner and day two breakfast and lunch will be provided at the start/finish. Please be sure to have your event wristband on at all times, since this will be your access to the meal service along the entire route. Friends and family may purchase meals for $5 each at point of sale. continued

General Information continued

Bike Compound: The bike compound is a secured, covered facility located at the start/finish line. The bike compound will also be available for early arrivals on Friday, September 10th, beginning at 4:00 p.m. NOTE: For security reasons, your Rider Number must be clearly displayed on the bike and you must have the matching Rider Number on you in order to pick your bike back up out of the compound. Bike Maintenance: The Official Bike Stores will have mechanics at break points, and at the start and finish lines. An inspection sticker will be provided for passed inspections and will entitled you to 50% off labor while on the ride. Non-Denominational Service: A non-denominational fellowship service will be offered on Sunday, September 12th at 7:00 a.m. at the overnight location. Photography: Photographers will be located at different points along the route. In addition, team photos may be taken at the start line.

General Information - Friends And Family The start/overnight/finish area for the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride is open to all friends and family of riders wishing to show support. Whether coming to cheer on the riders as they cross the finish line or to help prepare arrangements for overnight, friends and family are considered an important part of the Ride. Additionally, supporters are welcome to join us for meals at the start/finish lines for only $5 per meal. For the safety of the cyclists, supporters should not make plans to meet cyclists on the route. Official support vehicles such as medical, SAG, bike repair, event staff, breakpoint trucks, and supply trucks will be available along the route. There will also be no parking allowed at any breakpoint.

continued

General Information â&#x20AC;&#x201C; On Route Support continued

Medical: First-aid volunteers will be available at break points, start and finish, and overnight designated areas. An ambulance will also be on route both days of the Ride. If you have any medical conditions requiring prescription drugs, please be sure to carry those medications with you.

Support And Gear (SAG) Vehicles: Support And Gear (SAG) vehicles patrol the route to provide help to riders who might need assistance. SAGs are operated by dedicated volunteers who patrol the route for safety. Should you need a SAG to transport you to the next breakpoint, first move off the road and out of the path of other riders; next, dismount your bike and stand nearby; then wave your helmet to let the drivers know that you are not just taking a break. Be aware that some of the official vehicles on the route are medical, staff or communications vehicles and are not equipped to carry riders. Also, at peak hours SAG vehicles may be full. Please have patience, another will be by soon. Motorcycle Marshals: Motorcycle Marshals are volunteers who patrol the route, respond quickly to emergencies and traffic situations, and check the well-being of riders. Please follow the instructions of these volunteers. Bike MS Routes Signs: Route signs are placed along day 1 and day 2 routes as directional signage. Please adhere to all road signs in addition to taking directions from the route signs. Vehicles On The Route: Your safety is our number one priority. For that reason, family members, friends, photographers, team volunteers and non-ride officials are not allowed on the routes. Pulling over, driving too fast or too slow, or honking at cyclists may create severe safety hazards. No vehicles will be allowed to park at the breakpoints. No team support vehicles are allowed. .

Official Bike Stores The Official Bike Stores of the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride are here to help! Free Bike Inspections: Official Bike Stores of the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride provide free, professional inspections to event participants. Inspections run August 1-27, 2010. We recommend that all participants take advantage of this offer to ensure your bikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safety prior to each Bike MS event. An inspection sticker will be provided for passed inspections and will entitled you to free labor while on the ride. An inspection sticker will be provided for passed inspections and will entitled you to 50% off labor while on the ride. Official Bike Store Training Rides: All of the Official Bike Stores host regular training rides from their store locations. Easy, moderate, and fast paced rides are available. Contact your closest location for a list of available training rides. Bike Maintenance: Bike store mechanics will be available at break points, the start and finish lines and at the overnight. Bike Recommendations: The official bike stores can recommend which bike will be most suitable for you and provide a basic bike fitting, literature on training and information on other equipment. Metro-Atlanta Area Official Bike Stores CycleWorks www.cycleworksinc.com

Free-Flite Bicycles www.freeflite.com

4970 Lower Roswell Road Marietta, GA 30068 770-509-9494

2949 Canton Rd. Suite 1000 Marietta, GA 30066 770-422-5237

1580 Holcomb Bridge Road Roswell, GA 30076 770-993-2626 3576 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Duluth, GA 30096 770-476-4949

4177 Roswell Road Marietta, GA 30062 770-977-9696 1437 Riverstone Pkwy Canton, Georgia 30114 770-479-7433

Peachtree Bicycles www.peachtreebikes.com 2825 Peachtree Road Atlanta, GA 30305 404-262-9853 Roswell Bicycles www.roswellbicycles.com 670 Houze Way Roswell, GA 30076 770-642-4057 TREK Bicycle Stores www.atlantatrek.com 1801 Georgian Park Peachtree City, GA 30269 770-632-1830 120 Westridge Pkwy McDonough, GA 30253 770-320-7477

Packet Pickup Do I have to attend the Packet Pickup? Yes and No! Every rider must have the proper credentials to participate in the ride. In order to collect a rider packet of credentials, every rider must turn in their signed Waiver & Pledge Agreement form, indicating acknowledgement of the fundraising commitment of at least $250, at the Packet Pickup. However, the rider does not need to be present to pick up a rider packet; a designated representative can turn in the rider’s signed Waiver and Pledge Agreement Form and pick up a packet in their stead. In order to allow staff to focus on safety, there will be no Packet Pickup or registration on the day of the bike event. What is included in the rider packet? The rider packet contains the credentials needed to participate in the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride. The packet includes: bib number, bike frame numbers, helmet number, safety pins and a wristband for meals. Do I have to reach my minimum fundraising goal by a certain date? Yes. In order to obtain your rider packet, your minimum fundraising commitment of $250 must be turned in prior to or at the packet pickup. What do I need to bring with me? At Packet Pickups, riders must turn in a signed copy of their Waiver & Pledge Agreement Form. Cyclists are encouraged to turn in fundraising pledge donations they have already received to date. The minimum of $250 must be reached in order to pick up your rider packet. Are there special requirements for riders under 18? Riders between the eligible participant ages of 12 and 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent/guardian AND have the waiver notarized - EVEN IF THE PARENT IS PRESENT AT THE PACKET PICKUP.

Packet Pickup

Saturday, August 21 10:00am – 1:00pm

Wednesday, September 1 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Saturday, August 28 10:001pm – 1:00pm

Friday, September 10 4:00pm – 9:00pm Bike MS Street Festival Downtown Pine Mountain, GA First Baptist Church

Monday, August 30 6:00pm – 9:00pm Tuesday, August 31 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Please visit the website at www.bikeMSgeorgia.org for up-to-date information regarding Packet Pickups. NOTE: No Packet Pickup or Registration on the day of the event.

Bike MS Street Festival & Packet Pickup The City of Pine Mountain, GA welcomes you to the fifth annual Bike MS Street Festival & Packet Pickup to be held on Friday, September 10 from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. Hosted by the town of Pine Mountain, the Pine Mountain Tourism Association, the Merchants Association, and the Chiefs of Fire and Police, you are invited to eat, dance, party and mingle with your fellow riders, browse the local merchants, tastetest your way through local food vendors, and visit official bike store and sponsor booths. For our “out of town” participants and for those who waited until the last minute, your last chance to register or pick up rider packets will be during the Bike MS Street Festival at the First Baptist Church.

Bike MS Street Festival & Packet Pickup Friday, September 10, 2010 4:00pm – 9:00pm Location: Downtown Pine Mountain, GA www.PineMountain.org

Activities: Live Music, Food Vendors, Local Merchants, Sponsor Booths, Kids Zone

Bike MS Jr. Bike MS Junior is an exciting program open to all cyclists between the ages of 5-11 years old. Held in conjuntion with the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride, Bike MS Jr. offers a one-day, specialized cycling and fundraising experience within Callaway Gardens for our youngest participants. Junior cyclists will enjoy secure routes within Callaway Gardens with break points at various attractions within the park. This is sure to be an experience of a lifetime. For more information, visit the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride website at www.bikeMSgeorgia.org.

Bike MS Jr.

Date: Saturday, September 11, 2010 Location: Callaway Gardens Pine Mountain, GA

Preparing for the Ride The miles of the Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride are challenging, but a little training and preparation will make the ride easier and more enjoyable. Training Tips Preparing yourself is just as important as having the right equipment. The Bike MS Ride is an accessible ride for nearly every skill level, but less experienced riders should develop a training schedule to fit their needs. The Official Bike Stores can assist in helping you prepare a training program. Download the Bike MS Guide To Training And Nutrition to get started at www.bikeMSgeorgia.org. Cycling Tips ∫ When Cycling, try to maintain 90-100 rpm. That may seem fast, but it is the most effective method of increasing blood flow to your muscles. More blood means more oxygen and that means less burning in your legs as well as more endurance. Adjust the bike to whatever resistance allows you to maintain that high rpm for the duration of your ride. ∫ It is more effective to train with 5-6 shorter rides each week rather than one or two long rides. Your body adjusts to daily cycling better and therefore more conditioning, even if you ride the same distance. ∫ Carbohydrates the day before a long ride give you more energy for the ride the next day. Pasta, potatoes, and bread are good examples. ∫ Drink one bottle per hour, with every second bottle being a sports drink. ∫ Snack while riding. Energy bars & power gels are some examples of very effective bike nutrition. Bananas are also good, and they are easy to eat. ∫ Train with other people. It’s more fun, it’s safer, you can practice riding in a group, and you have someone to motivate you when things get tough. ∫ Get your bike inspected at one of the Official Bike Stores prior to the event. Not only does this entitle you to free labor during the event, but they can provide you with additional information on training and equipment. ∫ Head injuries are of special concern for cyclists. Even falling at a slow rate of speed can cause a serious head injury. Helmets must be on your head and strapped while riding in Bike MS — no exceptions. What to Wear: All Bike MS riders must wear an approved bicycling helmet at all times while riding the route. It is also suggested that riders wear cycling clothing for their own comfort. In picking items to wear look for clothing that lacks buckles or ties that might catch in bike tires or chains, is close-fitting to reduce chafing and wind interference, and wicks perspiration away from the body. continued

Preparing for the Ride continued

Most important are the places where the rider’s body meets the bike: gloves, shorts, and shoes. Cycling gloves are designed to keep hands dry and protect palms from handlebar vibration and the occasional spill. Cycling shorts are padded in the seat and are generally close-fitting to eliminate wind resistance and chafing. Cycling shoes have stiff soles to reduce foot fatigue and lock into pedals to increase pedaling efficiency.

What to Pack

With You On The Ride:

∫ Helmet — THIS IS REQUIRED!

∫ Padded bike shorts, jersey

∫ Cycling gloves, good athletic shoes

∫ Sunglasses, lip balm, sunscreen

∫ Patch, spare tubes, tire pump

∫ Identification (driver’s license)

∫ Emergency cash, credit card

∫ Water bottles, hydration pack

∫ Rider numbers & wristband

∫ Route maps & cue sheets

∫ Medications, hand sanitizer

∫ Rain poncho (just in case)

In Your Overnight Bag:

∫ Tent, sleeping bag and pillow if camping

∫ Travel alarm clock

∫ Towel & toiletries for on-site shower

∫ Medications

∫ Change of clothes for Saturday & Sunday

Safety Starts With You! The safety of Bike MS participants is the number one priority for the National MS Society – Georgia Chapter. However, it is also the responsibility of each individual cyclist to be knowledgeable of and adhere to safe practices. Please familiarize yourself with the following safety tips and guidelines. Official Bike MS Safety Initiatives For your safety, the following initiatives are enforced for all Bike MS events. ∫ Minimum Participation Age: The minimum age to participate is 12 years old at the time of the ride. ∫ Equipment and Accessories attached to bicycles for transporting children and/or pets are not allowed. This includes, but is not limited to, bicycle trailers, Tag-Along or Trail-a-Bike products, and child carrier seats. Rule Of the Road: When you ride a bike on the road, you are a driver; therefore, you have the same road responsibilities as the driver of an automobile. Be sure to follow these rules as you ride: ∫ Wear a helmet. ∫ Obey all traffic signs and signals. ∫ Never wear headphones. ∫ Ride on the right side of the lane, a few feet from the edge. ∫ Ride in the same direction as traffic. ∫ Ride in single file to allow traffic to pass. ∫ Never ride more than two abreast. ∫ Pass on the left only, and allow riders to pass. ∫ Give hand signals when stopping or turning. Safety Tips: Riders must follow the rules of the road, but it is just as important to follow these cycling etiquette tips: ∫ Ride in a straight line; do not weave. ∫ Cross railroad tracks at a right angle. ∫ Try to make eye contact with drivers before turning. ∫ Glance back often, always before moving right or left. ∫ Watch out for yourself. Don’t depend on other riders to spot hazards. ∫ Talk to your fellow cyclists. Let them know “CAR BACK,” “ON YOUR LEFT,” or “STOPPING”. ∫ Before passing, look to be sure it is clear, then signal. ∫ When passing another cyclist, call out “ON YOUR LEFT”. ∫ When you hear someone say “ON YOUR LEFT,” do not turn around. Hold handlebars steady and your bike straight. Allow them to pass.

Going the Extra Mile Champions Against MS: The Champions Against MS program has become a special way for cyclists to connect with people in the community living with MS. It is an opportunity for cyclists to personalize their experience by riding for someone with MS. Ride for someone you know and proudly display your bandana, signed by your champion. If you do not know someone with MS, the Champions Against MS program will pair you with one of our clients served by the National MS Society. For more information, contact the National MS Society, Georgia Chapter at 1-800-FIGHTMS/678.672.1000. Mission Possible Award: Cyclists who raise $1 for every person with MS we serve in Georgia are eligible to receive a beautiful Mission Possible plaque. The local chapter provides client programs to 8,500 Georgians seeking services from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Set a goal for yourself to be a member of this prestigious club. Tour Of Champions: The Tour of Champions award goes to the highest caliber of fundraisers. When you raise a minimum of $10,000, you will join other fundraisers from around the country for a weekend long get-away at a great destination. Airfare and hotel accommodations are provided at no cost to the participant. You will get an opportunity to share your drive and passion for fundraising and success stories with others. For an additional $5,000 raised, you may invite a guest to the Tour of Champions.

Calendar of Events May 31

Deadline for Early Bird Registration ($25)

July 31

Deadline to register for $35

August 1-27 21 28 30 31

Bike Inspections at Official Bike Stores Packet Pickup #1 – 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Packet Pickup #2 – 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Packet Pickup #3 – 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Packet Pickup #4 – 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

September 1 5 6 10 11 12

Packet Pickup #5 – 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Deadline to register for $50 Registration fee increases to $300 ($50 registration fee + $250 minimum pledge) Bike MS Street Festival & Packet Pickup – Downtown Pine Mountain, GA Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride – Day 1 Day One Start: 8:00 a.m. Day One Route Close: 6:00 p.m. Bike MS: Cox Atlanta Ride – Day 2 Day Two Start: 8:00am Day Two Route Close: 5:00 p.m.

October 13

Pledge Deadline

December 31

Top 100 Club Qualifying Deadline

January TBA

Awards & Volunteer Recognition Party

1 800 FIGHTMS | www.bikeMSgeorgia.org