On Saturday June 2nd, Team Wheaton Franciscan participated in our annual fundraiser, the 2007 Trek 100 Ride for Hope. The Trek 100 is put on by the MACC (Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer) Fund; it is their premier event, and one of the largest fundraiser’s for childhood cancer and related blood disorder in the United States.
The turnout of Wheaton riders included: Ben Bartoszuk, Lucas Boehm, Jesse Duppler, Dave Eckel (Team President), Gregory Francken, John Grisa, Scott Peterson, Andy Reiland (Team Vice President), Jim Saueressig, Glen Stroik, Doug Wambach, and Rudy Byron.
After a few words from Lance Armstrong, we were under way. Starting off a 100 mile “ride” is even more difficult in the rain, but the riders dealt with it the best we could. Even through some difficult moments with tight, slick roads, Team Wheaton stayed positive and pressed on. Coming back to the event location was a relief, and all riders finished upright, and happy that we could contribute to a great charity.
The Trek 100 holds special meaning to our team due to fact that our title sponsor is a health care provider, and we are all fortunate to be able to lend a hand in the fight against cancer. We had set a lofty goal of $3,000 of donations, and thanks to the help of generous donor’s and dedicated soliciting, we were able to beat our goal, and pull in a solid $3,665! The top donation collector award goes to Gregory Francken who brought in a whopping $1,420, not far behind was team webmaster/accountant Scott “Scooter” Peterson with a strong $1,125. Our team is happy to be in the position of helping others, and look forward to more riders, and higher donations next year. See you at the 2008 Trek 100!