July 16, 2006 – Summer weekends mean sunny days, socializing with friends, and cycling during a season that is all too short. Participants in the RONA MS Bike Tours combine all of these elements with an enthusiasm for cycling and an often passionate awareness of the need to fight multiple sclerosis.

“People take part in the RONA MS Bike Tours for a variety of reasons,” said Malcolm (Mac) MacLellan, an avid cyclist who has participated in the Tours for more than 15 years. “It’s a great way to get outside on your bike and take in some beautiful scenery while raising funds for a very important cause. And the MS Society takes care of everything, from food and beverages to rest stops and cyclist support vehicles.”

Mac is a tour leader at the RONA MS Bike Tours, providing support to any participants who require help along the route. He is a member of the Tour organizing committee as well as volunteering for the Super Cities WALK for MS, MS Carnation Campaign, and in the MS Society’s Ontario Division office. Mac has also received the MS Society’s Volunteer Award of Distinction in honour of his exceptional work with the Society.

Since first getting involved with the RONA MS Bike Tours in 1990, Mac has seen first-hand the feeling of accomplishment that participating in the Tours can bring. “Event participants experience a memorable summer weekend and the feeling of accomplishment that comes from completing the route. And just as importantly, they have the good feeling of knowing that they’re also helping people with multiple sclerosis. It really is the ‘feel good’ event of the summer!”

Five RONA MS Bike Tours will take place this year in Ontario – Grand Bend to London (July 22nd and 23rd), Ottawa to Kemptville (August 12th and 13th), Brampton to Waterloo (August 19th and 20th), Niagara Region (August 27th), and Toronto (September 10th). More information about the RONA MS Bike Tours and opportunities to cycle or volunteer is available at http://www.msbiketours.com or by calling 1-800-268-7582, ext. 3038.