What our team had to say about this year’s ride:
Marsha Swatosh, Structural Project Engineer
“While I’ve participated in Bike MS for the last five years, the ride this year looked a little different. One day instead of two, everyone was in masks, and there were individual water bottles and Gatorade packets instead of communal water coolers. The turnout was also smaller, as some opted to stay home and ride in solidarity because they live with people at greater risk of being affected by COVID-19.
But for those who did make it out, the energy was palpable and positive. We were all out there together, pounding it out on the uphills, flying free on the downhills, and grinding into the wind on the flats. We were all there doing something that people with advanced MS are unable to do – we rode because they can’t. We rode in the hopes of raising enough money to fund better treatments and eventually a cure.
When I started riding for Bike MS, I knew very little about it. I love biking, and it was an excellent way to develop friendships with coworkers and industry partners outside of the office. Over the years though, I’ve learned about several friends and family members of friends who are living with MS. Now I ride not only for the social aspect, but because it’s a cause that I feel needs a lot of support. We had four new riders from Coughlin Porter Lundeen this year, and my hope is that our number of riders and supporters continues to grow from year to year.”
Eric Lentz, Structural Project Manager
“This is the sixth year I’ve done this event. Each time I ride, I’m blown away by the sheer number of people riding to support those with MS or riding with MS – it’s an amazing event. This year was great and we were so happy that it didn’t rain!”
Colin Lambie, Structural Staff Engineer
“This was my first time participating in Bike MS. I decided to sign up because I enjoy biking and have only heard great things about the scenery of Deception Pass and the general atmosphere of the event. It was great seeing so many happy people from a range of industries out there raising money and bringing awareness to MS. The ride lived up to the praise, and I am already looking forward to next year!”
Sam Turner, Structural Staff Engineer
“My girlfriend Emily joined me this year, and it was a really special event for both of us as her stepmom was diagnosed with MS in 2014. Last time we were home, she was brought to tears when we told her about the ride. We were thinking of her the whole time!”