One of the nation’s premier events for mental health awareness returns to the Hudson Valley this upcoming month.
On June 27-28, many of the northeast’s best cyclists will congregate to New Paltz for the 10th anniversary of The Ride for Mental Health. The event was initially created by the organization’s CEO Mac Dorris in order to honor the memory of his son Eric, who passed away at the age of 21 after a bout with a mental health disorder.
“The Ride for Mental Health is known for its exceptional organization and community spirit, uniting cyclists, volunteers, donors and sponsors, and raising more than $1.6 million for Harvard’s McLean Hospital, a world leader in mental health research, education and treatment,” a press release from the organization said. “The weekend is highlighted by a Saturday night dinner with live music that sets a tone of camaraderie and celebration. A wide variety of local accommodations include local and national chain hotels, bed & breakfast inns, and low-cost college dorm quarters reserved at SUNY-New Paltz.”
as well as the $1.6 million raised for Harvard’s McLean Hospital, $20K has been donated to local organizations such as the New Paltz Youth Program and the Maya Gold Foundation.
An avid cyclist throughout his life, Dorris created the event with the idea of it being a friendly, community-building event with the proceeds going to a useful cause. A two-day event with an excess of activities and prizes for various riders, it’s an attractive destination for competitive and casual riders alike.
While overall a family-oriented event, the two-day ride will offer prizes for select competitions. One being a “King of the Mountain” and “Queen of the Mountain,” where through the Strava app, winning times for the last mile over the Shawangunk Mountains will each receive a $250 gift certificate to a local cycling shop. As well, participants are registered to win a two-night, all expenses (dinner included) stay at Mohonk Mountain House, valued at $2K.
“Riders can choose from fully supported routes of 25, 50 and 100 miles offering breathtaking views and a festive, welcoming atmosphere,” the release said. “Competitive riders can earn prizes in the men’s, women’s and team categories for challenging sections that traverse through the Shawangunk Mountains, tracking their times on the Strava app, while families and novice riders can enjoy the Rail Trail and Family Fun Rides.”
Joining along at the event will be former U.S. Olympians Nelson Valis and Wayne Stetina. Valis is a silver medalist from the 1984 Games while Stetina is a three-time Olympian and member of the U.S Bicycle Hall of Fame.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. If you or anyone you know may be struggling with mental health battles, call the national hotline 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for help and assistance.
This article originally appeared on Poughkeepsie Journal: Ride for Mental Health returns to New Paltz for 10th anniversary
Reporting by Eric Decker, Poughkeepsie Journal / Poughkeepsie Journal
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