February 23, 2005 … Long-time MS Society supporter Mark Hopper will take to his bike for the sixth year at the upcoming Toronto International Bicycle Show, cycling 1,000 kilometres in less than three days to help fight multiple sclerosis.

Hopper will raise pledges as he attempts to cycle more than 1,000 kilometres – the distance between Toronto and New Brunswick – pedaling around the clock on top of a type of indoor bicycle trainer known as rollers. Unlike riding a stationary bicycle, rollers are used with a regular bicycle, requiring that the rider maintain constant balance and momentum to keep from falling over.

An avid endurance cyclist, Hopper has been working towards a cure for MS for more than 15 years in the RONA MS Bike Tours. He was inspired to help by a close relative’s long-time battle with this unpredictable, often disabling disease. “I know that every kilometer I cycle, and every dollar I raise, will bring us closer to a cure for multiple sclerosis,” said Hopper.

Hopper will begin his journey at noon on Friday, March 4th and will pedal throughout the weekend, stopping only for necessary breaks. By 6 p.m. on Sunday, he will have had a total of 54 hours to complete his ride.

Hopper, who has experienced first-hand the devastating effects that MS can have on a family, puts his marathon ride in perspective. “A 54 hour stationary ride for MS, while fatiguing and potentially painful, is over after three days. Individuals and families living with MS have no such end in sight. But fund raisers like this help to provide services for people with MS and their families while we work towards finding a cure.”

The Toronto International Bicycle Show takes place from March 4th to 6th at the National Trade Centre (Exhibition Place) in downtown Toronto. Visitors to the MS Society booth will have an opportunity to support Mark Hopper with a pledge to fight MS, and for a donation can cycle beside Hopper to help him reach the 1,000 kilometre goal. Information will also be available about multiple sclerosis and the RONA MS Bike Tours. For more details, call (416) 967-3038 or 1-800-268-7582, or visit http://www.msbiketours.com.