SMART Ride Rolling to New Heights

Long after the riders reached Key West and the sun set on SMART Ride 19, the money kept coming in. That little extra is making a big difference. When founder Glen Weinzimer took the stage at closing ceremonies in November, the riders were about $15,000 short of a million.

When he took the stage at the check presentation at Hunters Nightclub in January, the total was $1,043,270. “I feel grateful and emotional,” Weinzimer told OutClique . “It boggles my mind that people still show up.”

At closing ceremonies, he challenged the teams to make one last push and they rallied to the call. SMART Ride’s 19 year total is $15,954,344. “You put something out, and people respond. I don’t know how that happens. You can feel that love and energy.”

Six organizations from throughout Florida received 90% of the money raised. They are Broward House, AH Monroe, Compass, Pridelines, Epic, and Miracle of Love. The other 10% is held in an emergency fund to help a wide range of nonprofits get through unforeseen crises during the year.

The annual ride is a two-day, 165 mile trek from Miami to Key West. Thanks to generous support from sponsors and the community, The SMART Ride is the largest event of its kind that returns 100% of proceeds back to organizations engaged in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Time For A Change

The SMART Ride is Weinzimer’s legacy. Now a new person will carry that legacy forward. Todd Delmay will be the new leader of the organization. Weinzimer made the announcement at the check presentation and gushed about Delmay afterwards. “He stood up and was part of the lawsuit for marriage equality. He understands nonprofit, starting My Hollywood Pride. He’s run for political office. He’s personable and wants to do something that gives back.”

Delmay will shadow Weinzimer as they co-produce SMART Ride 20. They believe that will make for a smooth transition as they work with volunteers, vendors, and the board. “Getting to know the agency executives and really understanding what happens with the money once SMART Ride has helped raise it is such a responsibility,” Delmay told OutClique.

The duo is setting an ambitious goal for the 20th ride. They are challenging the riders, crew, and the community to raise two-million dollars. Delmay says it’s attainable because he’s seen their passion first hand. “It’s an abundance mentality, and SMART Ride really has that. It’s a culture. I was on the ride and I saw people who have a tattoo of the logo on their body, that’s a commitment that is above and beyond.”

Registration for this year’s ride, which is November 17-18, 2023, is already underway. To learn more or register, please visit TheSmartRide.org.