Dick Gelfman's Ride Across Md. To Be Held This Weekend
ELKRIDGE, Md. (WJZ) -- It's going to be a gorgeous weekend for a motorcycle ride, and that's exactly what a lot of folks in Maryland will be doing to raise money to fight breast cancer.
Ron Matz reports it's time for Dick Gelfman's Ride Across Maryland.
From the Mall in Columbia across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to Ocean City, more than 1,000 motorcyclists will join Dick Gelfman for his 11th annual Ride Across Maryland.
"It's our 11th year, $2 million down. We're starting our second decade of doing these rides for the fight against breast cancer, so only good times ahead," said Dick Gelfman.
There were good times at Daniel's Restaurant in Elkridge, where bikers ride for the cause.
The Navy Chiefs will be more than 50 strong.
"We started last year with about 47 riders and raised almost $18,000. This year we've got a group of 54 and we're at about $19,000 now," said Kirk Towner, Pasadena. "The Navy Chiefs is a worldwide fraternity brotherhood and sisterhood, active duty and retired. I'm honored to be part of this event. I've been doing this since 2007. It's a great cause, it's a good weekend, a family weekend. It's a good time."
The Gelfman Ride is so successful now that it's a grant giving organization.
"We have grown very fast. It's been 10 years, but we've given away over $2 million. So now because of that success what we're able to do is look to organizations that need funding for breast cancer from us," said Gelfman. "We want organizations, individuals, small groups, large groups, hospitals if you need funding contact the Ride Across Maryland. We're considering all grants; we're now a grant making organization."
Corporate sponsors like WJZ and CareFirst make it happen.
"It's wonderful. We're thrilled to be a part of it. It's a commitment to the community we serve. I ride so it's even more special for me, but even if it wasn't it would still be something very important to us and I can't think of anything better to be involved in," said Executive Vice President Greg Devou, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield.
"It's the bikers. This is what they do, this is what they love doing, raising money for worthwhile causes. It's not us, it's the bikers, they do all the hard work," said Gelfman. "When I go out people say, 'I love watching what you guys do.' But I love what WJZ does to support the community. You guys have been with us right from day one. It really does make a difference."
The ride begins at 8:45 a.m. Saturday when riders leave the Mall in Columbia and several other locations for the trip to Ocean City.
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WJZ is a proud sponsor of the Ride Across Maryland as part of our Continuing Community Commitment.
