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11th Annual Ride Across Maryland Raises Money for Breast Cancer Research

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- For the 11th time, the sound of thunder rolled in from all parts of Maryland.  Motorcycle riders answered the call to raise money for breast cancer research and other causes.  

Mike Schuh was there as former WJZ newsman Dick Gelfman gathered those participating in the Ride Across Maryland.

They roll in by the hundreds but by the time they leave, they will be a thousand strong.  Most come as a team and each rider raised a minimum of $100.  Some teams donated more than $25,000.  The colors today are green, black and pink.  The pink is for breast cancer research, the primary recipient.

"What family has not, in some way, been affected by breast cancer?" Gelfman said.

"If it's something worth riding for, we'll ride," said Jerome Thompson.  "For breast cancer, of course."

"It makes me feel really good that I'll be helping other women," said Debbie McGuigan.

Now there are so many riders that traffic on the Bay Bridge was halted to allow them all to pass.

"And to see people on the overpasses with signs, it literally brings tears to [my] eyes to see how people support this cause," said Steve Imhoff, part of Team Carpe Diem.

"One thousand [people participated]," Gelfman said.  "Last year, we made $300,000 which brought our grand total to over $2 million."

"It gives us a chance to socialize and do it in a good way to produce something for society," said Jim Brown.

They were led out by motormen from area police agencies, an honor guard saying thanks for turning a good time into money for a great cause.

Gelfman says no one in his immediate family has suffered from breast cancer.  He says he raises money for the cause when there is a need. Some life-giving research has already been done.

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