Gyrodata employees took on the great challenge of cycling their bikes for the BP MS 150 Houston Tour from Saturday, April 27th to Sunday, the 28th. Several Gyrodata employees raised nearly $14,000 for this premier fundraiser. A total of 22 dedicated Gyrodata employees cycled for Team Gyrodata various distances all the way from Houston to Austin, while several employees cheered on the sidelines or helped with the extensive logistics aspects of the event. Those who had completed the BP MS 150 before provided support and guidance for newcomers.
This year, the entire fundraising event drew 8,909 participants who made up 417 teams from across the Lone Star State. Known as “the ride of a lifetime”, the BP MS 150 is organized by the National MS Society. Since 1985, the event has been known for bringing together cyclists, volunteers and the community as a whole to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis and raise funds for individuals impacted by it. Multiple sclerosis can be physically and psychologically debilitating. It is a disease of the central nervous system that affects more than 2.3 million people worldwide.
Team Gyrodata was made up of employees, friends, and families who were participating as riders and volunteers in support of raising money for those who suffer from multiple sclerosis. The team, which was made up of both experienced and new riders, proudly sported new, modern-looking jerseys that were designed by Joey Daniels, marketing coordinator. (The jerseys included graphic images of both the Houston and Austin skylines.)
On day one, some riders began their journal in Katy, where they rode 83.3 miles to La Grange. Most of the Gyrodata participants began cycling in Waller. From Waller to La Grange, it was a 75.6-mile ride. And those who cycled from Houston to La Grange, ended up cycling 95.7 miles on day one. Throughout the weekend, Gyrodata cyclists enjoyed a scenic, yet challenging route as well as rest stops every 15 miles. Gyrodata volunteers worked tirelessly by providing support for the event by setting up the sleeping arrangement, providing meals and ensuring the riders were well hydrated for the next day’s events.
“Being a part of the support team for the event was great because it gave people the opportunity to be involved with the event and build comradery with the cycling team even if they couldn’t ride. It was a great feeling to know you are helping raise money for such a worthwhile cause.” Kris Earl, Product Line Manager, Engineering, said.
On Sunday, riders woke up at 5 AM before it was light out to begin the second round of bike riding on a windy, sunny day. The exhausted cyclists rode 69.7 miles through hilly and flat areas from La Grange all the way to the finish line at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, where the support team once again greeted them with food and beverages and arranged for the riders and their gear to be brought back to Houston.
Page Johnson, sales and marketing administrator, has been involved in the race since last year. She has participated in two rides. “I was proud to see so many outstanding Gyrodata employees take time out of their busy schedules to either raise funds, cycle or volunteer for such an important cause.” Johnson said.
This was Jim Brosnahan’s, executive vice president, Engineering, twelfth BP MS 150 ride. It was the eighth time he rode on Team Gyrodata. “Gyrodata employees really stepped up to the plate with their community involvement and fundraising efforts for the BP MS 150. I was thrilled to see Gyrodata help make a difference in the community. Also, riding more than a hundred and fifty miles across Texas with my coworkers was an unforgettable and rewarding experience.” Brosnahan said. Brosnahan would encourage everyone to support Team Gyrodata by riding, volunteering or donating to your favorite rider. Team Gyrodata has raised over $150,000 for MS in 8 years. He looks forward to continuing this tradition and adding to our giving total next year.
Alan Bernard, Senior Vice President, International Operations, Operations Corporate, has been participating in the BP MS 150 for the past eight years. “Gyrodata is a proud sponsor of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s annual BP MS 150 Houston-to-Austin bike ride. Events like this really showcase Gyrodata’s values and sense of community. I look forward to cycling for this fundraiser every year.” Bernard said.
“The BP MS 150 is a challenging event that really brings employees together for a great cause. I would really encourage more Gyrodata employees to participate next year if they have the time to train for the event.” Adrián Ledroz, VP. Chief Scientist of Wellbore Placement, Technical Services, said. This was his fifth ride.
Thomas McFarland (also known as TJ), U.S. account manager, rode for his second time this year. “I was very thankful for having the opportunity to participate in the BP MS 150! It was a well-executed event for a wonderful cause. Without the thousands of volunteers, this event wouldn’t have been possible or have been such a success. Congratulations to all the volunteers and those who had the pleasure of riding!” McFarland said.
Overall, the event was quite a hit. Gyrodata was a proud supporter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s fight to fund vital services and research. We look forward to the 2020 ride, when the company will hopefully raise more funds, have even more cyclists and win the jersey contest. Gyrodata also looks forward to finding new opportunities to give back to the community.