Napa Valley, California -September 30, 2013

The 9th Annual Napa Valley Ride to Defeat ALS and Walk on Saturday, September 28, 2013 was an extraordinary day filled with the hope and action needed to conquer Lou Gehrig's Disease.

"From the dozen or more brilliantly colored hot air balloons to the ride through the vineyards, it was a perfect day," shared Matt Chaney, co-chair of the Ride. "The views were spectacular and the weather could not have been more optimal for cycling. The temperature never got past the upper 70's and there was just enough breeze to carry the aroma of ripe fruit through our routes. The white grapes were being harvested and the red fruit hung heavily on the vines."

Originating at the Yountville Veteran's Home, more than 900 participants enjoyed four different cycling routes (100, 60, 27, or 12 miles) and one walking route (2 miles). At the end of their ride or walk, participants returned to the Veteran's Home picnic grounds where they were treated to a delicious lunch courtesy of Tony Caters, special team photo opportunities and each other's company.

"Coming back to the Veteran's Home to wine, beer, excellent food, family and friends capped off a great day," shared Chaney, who has been living with ALS since 2001 and rode the 27-mile route.  Returning riders and walkers were greeted with applause, cheering and Mardi Gras beads at the finish line.  Event organizers made a special presentation for all participants during lunch.

"Those who have chosen to support this Ride, from the sponsors and donors to everyone who is here today, are committed to helping people with ALS and their families facing this disease," said Fred Fisher, President and CEO of The ALS Association Golden West Chapter.

"Reaching our fundraising goals means we can continue to support all of the good things that we are currently doing," said Fisher. "But by exceeding them, we can start to do more." To date, this year’s Ride has raised $562,878.78 to support the work of The ALS Association.

Ride co-chair Phil Thomas told the crowd, “By participating today, you have joined a group of compassionate, committed and relentless individuals in the fight to defeat ALS. We couldn’t have done this without you."

"I would also like to extend a special thanks to the Chapter staff and the Ride committee for their tireless efforts and dedication to the success of this event," said Thomas. "From organizing the thousands of logistical details, to designing this inspired ride jersey, to spreading the word about ALS and this Ride- your dedication has led to today's success."

Thomas and Chaney then presented special thanks to the top three teams- #Speed for Sarah, Team Linda and Marvin, and Hot Dawg. "Your hard work is so very important to the 1200 people with ALS that this ride helps to support," shared Thomas. "Many critical care services will be able to be provided as a result of successful fundraising events such as this one."

"The impact of your efforts is felt throughout the entire ALS community," said Thomas. "As a Chapter of the only national not-for-profit health organization dedicated solely to the fight against ALS on all fronts, we give help and hope to those facing a devastating disease. Every year, we are able to invest millions of dollars in research conducted by the best and brightest scientists in the world. Each day, through our care services, advocacy, education and support, we help empower people facing ALS and their families to live fuller lives."

"On behalf of The ALS Association, the Ride Committee and the families we serve, thank you for your commitment and continued support," said Thomas.

Team Denison showing their "Never Give Up" spirit

Napa Valley, California -September 30, 2013

The 9th Annual Napa Valley Ride to Defeat ALS and Walk on Saturday, September 28, 2013 was an extraordinary day filled with the hope and action needed to conquer Lou Gehrig's Disease.

"From the dozen or more brilliantly colored hot air balloons to the ride through the vineyards, it was a perfect day," shared Matt Chaney, co-chair of the Ride. "The views were spectacular and the weather could not have been more optimal for cycling. The temperature never got past the upper 70's and there was just enough breeze to carry the aroma of ripe fruit through our routes. The white grapes were being harvested and the red fruit hung heavily on the vines."

Originating at the Yountville Veteran's Home, more than 900 participants enjoyed four different cycling routes (100, 60, 27, or 12 miles) and one walking route (2 miles). At the end of their ride or walk, participants returned to the Veteran's Home picnic grounds where they were treated to a delicious lunch courtesy of Tony Caters, special team photo opportunities and each other's company.

"Coming back to the Veteran's Home to wine, beer, excellent food, family and friends capped off a great day," shared Chaney, who has been living with ALS since 2001 and rode the 27-mile route.  Returning riders and walkers were greeted with applause, cheering and Mardi Gras beads at the finish line.  Event organizers made a special presentation for all participants during lunch.

"Those who have chosen to support this Ride, from the sponsors and donors to everyone who is here today, are committed to helping people with ALS and their families facing this disease," said Fred Fisher, President and CEO of The ALS Association Golden West Chapter.

"Reaching our fundraising goals means we can continue to support all of the good things that we are currently doing," said Fisher. "But by exceeding them, we can start to do more." To date, this year’s Ride has raised $562,878.78 to support the work of The ALS Association.

Ride co-chair Phil Thomas told the crowd, “By participating today, you have joined a group of compassionate, committed and relentless individuals in the fight to defeat ALS. We couldn’t have done this without you."

"I would also like to extend a special thanks to the Chapter staff and the Ride committee for their tireless efforts and dedication to the success of this event," said Thomas. "From organizing the thousands of logistical details, to designing this inspired ride jersey, to spreading the word about ALS and this Ride- your dedication has led to today's success."

Thomas and Chaney then presented special thanks to the top three teams- #Speed for Sarah, Team Linda and Marvin, and Hot Dawg. "Your hard work is so very important to the 1200 people with ALS that this ride helps to support," shared Thomas. "Many critical care services will be able to be provided as a result of successful fundraising events such as this one."

"The impact of your efforts is felt throughout the entire ALS community," said Thomas. "As a Chapter of the only national not-for-profit health organization dedicated solely to the fight against ALS on all fronts, we give help and hope to those facing a devastating disease. Every year, we are able to invest millions of dollars in research conducted by the best and brightest scientists in the world. Each day, through our care services, advocacy, education and support, we help empower people facing ALS and their families to live fuller lives."

"On behalf of The ALS Association, the Ride Committee and the families we serve, thank you for your commitment and continued support," said Thomas.

Team Denison showing their "Never Give Up" spirit