Thousands cycle in MS 150 bike tour

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Thousands of cyclists strapped on helmets and peddled their way from La Grange to Austin Sunday for the 25th Annual BP MS 150 bike tour. Cyclists left the Fayette County Courthouse in La Grange at 8 a.m. Sunday and rode for several hours before reaching their final destination, the State Capitol.

The bike race was supposed to start in Houston Saturday, but storms forced the race to begin a day later.

For many, this bicycle tour was personal. Nancy Gerner will never forget the day she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. It was October 23rd, 2000 just after she collapsed. She will also never forget the first time she came to the MS 150 bike ride.

"Pretty amazing, pretty amazing thing," said Gerner. "When I first saw this, it just took my breath away of the human compassion. It's a positive, when there's so much negative in the world."

Cyclists were greeted at the finish line with bubbles. The Bubble Bistro was Gerner's idea. It was a way for MS patients like herself to thank the riders for giving them hope.

"Because of them, we have hope," said Gerner. "We wouldn't have anything if it wasn't for those riders."

Schumacher has been cycling in the race for 21 years. His late uncle lived most of his life with MS.

"We cry when we cross the finish line," said Schumacher. "It's a big step to accomplish. I'll ride as long as I can. I'll ride until I'm too old to do it."

The BP MS 150 is the largest non-profit fundraising event in Texas and the largest MS 150 in North America.

For more information on Multiple Sclerosis and how to donate to BP MS 150, visit their Web Site at http://biketxh.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/TXHBikeEvents?pg=entry&fr_id=10222