July 14, 2025

Cyclists Converge for Ride to End ALZ in South Carolina

News Summary

Over 400 cyclists participated in a three-day, 257-mile bike ride across South Carolina to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s disease. The Ride to End ALZ, concluding at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park, attracted record participation and raised over $1 million for Alzheimer’s research. The event underscored community spirit, with riders sharing personal stories and honoring loved ones affected by the disease. This year saw significant funding achievements, pushing the total raised since its inception to approximately $8.5 million.

Mount Pleasant, SC — Over 400 cyclists successfully completed a challenging three-day, 257-mile bike ride across South Carolina to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s disease. The event, known as the Ride to End ALZ, concluded on Sunday, July 13, at the new finish line located at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park, marking a celebration of community spirit and resilience.

Participants began their journey on July 11 in Simpsonville, SC, with stops slated in Newberry and Orangeburg. This year’s ride not only recorded the highest level of participation since its inception but also garnered over $1 million towards Alzheimer’s research, care, and support, bringing the 17-year fundraising total for the event to approximately $8.5 million.

Cyclists chose between two routes: a full tour of 257 miles or a half tour of 136 miles. As the cyclists crossed the finish line, the first were expected around 11:40 a.m., with the majority arriving by early afternoon between noon and 2 p.m. Spectators were encouraged to come to the finish line to support their efforts, further emphasizing community engagement.

The event is presented by the David Moore Foundation and aims to draw attention to the growing crisis of Alzheimer’s disease, which currently affects nearly 7 million people aged 65 and older in the United States, including approximately 113,000 individuals in South Carolina alone.

This year’s Ride to End ALZ featured a personal touch, as many participants rode in honor of loved ones directly impacted by the disease. For instance, one participant, Cory Donovan, completed the ride in honor of his mother, who was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s five years ago. Throughout the event, cyclists shared personal stories, fostering a sense of camaraderie and solidarity among participants.

As of Friday morning, prior to the conclusion of the ride, approximately $1.1 million had already been raised towards the event’s ambitious goal of $1.5 million. The funds collected during this ride will not only support national research initiatives by the Alzheimer’s Association but also facilitate educational programs and provide a 24-hour helpline for families affected by the disease.

The Ride to End ALZ launched in 2009 with only 20 riders and raised around $16,000 in its inaugural year, showcasing significant growth and an increasing public commitment to addressing the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s. This year included participation from more than 30 virtual cyclists who contributed to the cause, enhancing the scope of the event.

As highlighted by organizers, the Ride to End ALZ is more than just a fundraising event; it symbolizes the strength and perseverance of the community. Beth Sulkowski, the director of communications for the Alzheimer’s Association’s South Carolina chapter, noted the resilience displayed by participants, further underscoring the importance of collective efforts in combating this debilitating disease.

Looking ahead, additional events such as walks to end Alzheimer’s are scheduled in Aiken on September 13 and Augusta on September 27. These initiatives will continue to raise awareness, encourage community involvement, and support ongoing research and care efforts for those affected by Alzheimer’s.

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