The 3rd Annual Bike SONJ: Ride for Inclusion was held on Saturday, October 23 as part of Special Olympics New Jersey’s (SONJ) Fall Games at Skillman Park in Montgomery, NJ. 100 riders participated and combined to raise a new event fundraising high of over $33,000. The event goal was increased several times on the website and kept being exceeded. This year marked a strong comeback for the ride after transitioning to a fully-virtual event last year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Riders took their bikes out on one of four ride distances – a 15, 30, 50, or newly added 80-mile ride will enjoying the rolling hills and scenery of Mercer Middlesex, and Somerset Counties. For those who couldn’t attend the event in person, a virtual option was also offered. Every rider who participated and reached the $100 fundraising minimum received an event t-shirt, ride bib, and a finisher medal. With so many riders doing a great fundraising, many qualified for cool incentive items.
After event check-in, the riders took part in the Fall Games Cycling Opening Ceremony, where top fundraiser Kevin Laser was recognized for his great efforts, and then the participants hit the pavement and rode through some rain to carry on their goal of Riding for Inclusion. After their respective rides, the participants had lunch in Skillman Park and got to interact with each other and take in some of the SONJ athlete cycling competition, seeing firsthand our their funds positively impact the organization.
Bike SONJ: Ride for Inclusion is sponsored by the New Jersey Law Enforcement Torch Run and more information can be found at www.BikeSONJ.org.
Love supporting SONJ. Is there as date for the 2022 ride?
Thanks, Jeff! There’s no date yet but we’ll be sure to update it on the website and let you know!