Memory Ride For Research Rolling Through Amherst Today

Cyclists will be riding through Amherst today to support The Alzheimer’s Association through their annual Memory Ride for Research. 

Hundreds of cyclists, from expert to novice, are signing up for Memory Ride to raise money and awareness to fight Alzheimer’s disease. Memory Ride will offer a new 2-mile family option as well as a challenging 100-mile “century” ride, a “metric century” of 62 miles and a 30-mile “introductory” option.

The Memory Ride traverses towns in north central Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. Starting and finishing at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, the ride has become one of the state’s fastest-growing charity events. 

Memory Ride benefits the Alzheimer’s Association’s® research efforts into causes, treatments and cures for Alzheimer’s, the degenerative, fatal brain disease that affects 5.4 million Americans. To date, the Memory Ride has raised more than $2.7 million for research. 

“Memory Ride not only raises desperately needed money for research, it also builds public awareness about this difficult disease,” said James Wessler, President/CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. “Alzheimer’s has significant impact on families—emotionally, physically and financially. We are asking communities to step up and get involved.” 

The Memory Ride is designed to involve entire families as well as experienced cyclists seeking a challenge. “We want everyone to feel they can get involved, from novices to experienced distance riders,” said Angela Floro of the Alzheimer’s Association. “We hope people bring their family, bring their friends.”

The Association offers training and cycling information for casual riders and serious cyclists. Riders and those who would like to volunteer to help with the event can sign-up at www.memoryride.org . The event includes a post-ride BBQ, exhibitors’ fair and children’s activities. 

The Alzheimer’s Association is the nonprofit leader in funding for Alzheimer’s research. The Association also provides education and support to those dealing with the disease, their families and professional caregivers. For more information, visit www.alz.org/MANH or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.