Ride for Pride 2007 -- 1986 to Today
This inaugural ride began in 1986, and was held in
mid-April as a Fond du Lac HOG Chapter event, with sponsoring dealership
support from Bob’s Harley-Davidson, Inc. of Fond du Lac Wisconsin.
It all started with a small group of motorcyclists, who gathered
pledges on a per-mile basis for a
100-mile motorcycle ride in order to raise money for the Muscular
Dystrophy Association (MDA). The inaugural ride was much smaller
then today’s, with just 62 riders on the ride, when they raised
$2,000.00 for MDA. It was a true one-day event, with registration,
dinner and a dance held outside under a tent.
Through the years, many Fond du Lac HOG Chapter members have worked
very hard volunteering countless hours; their efforts have resulted
in the strong growth of this event despite the cold, wet and even
snow during many of the rides. While still wanting to remain the
first big ride of the season, the Fond du Lac HOG Chapter saw even
further potential to grow this ride. So, in the mid 1990’s,
the ride name was changed to Ride for Pride, the eagle logo evolved
and the ride was pushed back to the end of April. In 1998, a decision
was made to include other local charities to benefit from our ride.
In 2003, Ride for Pride Inc. was formed as a separate entity from
the Fond du Lac HOG Chapter. A board of directors was formed, comprised
of volunteers working year round to uphold and promote the integrity
of the ride, while soliciting corporate sponsorships to further
enhance and build this exciting event. The intent of the separate
board is not to exclude the Fond du Lac HOG Chapter and its members,
but to make decisions exclusively for the betterment of the event.
In 2006, our ride evolved to more then 650 riders, who helped raise
over $62,000.00, with net proceeds given to MDA and five other Fond
du Lac area charities, which included Free Spirit Riders, FAVR,
Habitat for Humanity, New Beginnings and the Miss Fond du Lac Scholarship
Fund.
Now in our 21st year, we are officially called Fond du Lac Ride
for Pride, Inc., working closely with the Fond du Lac HOG Chapter
and new dealership supporter, Open Road Harley-Davidson, of Fond
du Lac Wisconsin.
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