By Kara Jacobsen
The morning of July 21st was not just another summer Sunday — ringing cowbells and revved engines echoed on Convoy Court as 220 riders kicked off the third annual Rides4ALZ.
Each year, the fundraising event draws a wide range of individual and group riders who come to support the cause that helps their families and the other 84,000 San Diegans living with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
Paul Loska, co-owner of Icon Utility Services, is one of those riders spurred to action to make a difference. Paul has witnessed this disease firsthand in his mother-in-law and other family members. He was excited to see the strong turnout at this year’s ride.
“I think most of us were affected by this disease in some way or another,” he explains. “It’s awfully fun to be able to contribute and give back, especially while riding your motorcycle.”
DONATE | Local Alzheimer’s support & research
The 108-mile ride took place throughout San Diego County and finished with the After Party at AleSmith Brewing Company. Overall, the event raised more than $152,000 for the San Diego community!
Scott Drury, President of SDG&E, was thrilled with the results – and with the ride, itself.
“The view going over the Coronado bridge was spectacular,” he says. “It’s amazing how there are riders here from all over – we have Harley riders, Indian riders, even off-roading adventure riders. This being our third year, our goal going into the future is to keep broadening the community.”
WATCH | NBC San Diego comes along for the Rides4ALZ
During the After Party, more guests joined in on the fun eating delicious authentic tacos and drinking some of AleSmith’s famous brews. A memorable moment occurred during the opportunity drawing as a little girl and her mother frantically scanned their tickets, hoping to score a particular black helmet. While the girl was disappointed at first when they didn’t win, that didn’t last long. Mark Foster, the event’s top fundraiser who single-handedly raised more than $21,000, gave her a shiny white helmet from his own collection.
Touching moments like this one represent the heart of this community of riders.
Carl Skaja, co-owner of title sponsor Icon Utility Services, says it’s an honor to support Alzheimer’s San Diego.
“I can’t imagine a more deserving organization to dedicate time to. I have such a heart for people, both young and old, who can’t take care of themselves and there’s nobody that’s not affected,” he explains. “It’s about raising money, but it’s also about raising awareness.”
SAVE THE DATE: Join us at the Walk4ALZ at Balboa Park on October 19th!
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