AIR at the Katie Ride for Life April 18, 2009 - Fernandina Beach, Florida.
The start of the 100-mile bike ride, at the Atlantic Recreation Center at 7 a.m. An hour later, the 30K/60K/100K rides began.
Jonathan Tomassetti (at front of bike), captain of the AIR Katie Ride team, and his father, Bob, on their bike awaiting the 100-mile start.
Kathy Giery of Life Quest with Susan and David Caples, organizers of the event and parents of Katie Caples. Katie died at age 17 of injuries from an auto accident, but her decision to be an organ donor saved five other lives, and the Katie Rides in her memory have almost certainly saved countless more.
AIR Katie Riders included, from left, team captain Jonathan Tomassetti, Jill Staples, Rosa Haslip, Kathy Duprey, Donna Carrasco and Susan McKittrick. Among other AIR members who rode for the cause were Ken Marker, Chip Townsend and Joe Gerrity. The club's good thoughts are with Joe, who took a spill during the final leg of the 100-miler.
AIR's John McBrearty leads the start of the 5K and 10K Katie Walk. This was the first year of a walking event to coincide with the cycle rides, and more than 100 walkers took part.
Some AIR members couldn't resist running for the Katie Ride -- Mary Jean Last, Kathy Terwilliger and Jo Baker.
(Above Left) Cyclists who've entered all five Katie Rides, such as AIR team member Jill Staples, got their own special "parking spaces" for their bikes. Jill also scored Bib #1! (Above Right) AIR member Deborah Dunham who directed this year's Pirates Run.
Congratulations to all who participated in the event and support its worthy cause.
