Little Rock Patio Party – NUMBERS ARE IN $6,320.00!

After leaving Silver City, New Mexico, the team drove all night, 900 plus miles, arriving at their destination -Little Rock, Arkansas. With a quick meeting and circling of the wagons at ORBEA-USA on Monday, the guys made it to their host houses and settled in for the night. Tuesday was going to be a big day on and off the bike.

More than 175 cyclists and supporters gathered at River Trail Rentals in North Little Rock, Arkansas for the third annual Rubicon-Orbea Bike Ride benefiting the Lance Armstrong Foundation. This year’s ride was sponsored by Hematology Oncology Services of Arkansas and included a patio party with complimentary food provided by State Farm Agent Lee Tuxhorn and live music provided by Chuey and the Dudes. Cyclists were welcomed by City of North Little Rock officials, including Mayor Patrick Henry Hays, Aldermen Beth White and Charlie Hight, and Sustainability Coordinator Michael Drake.

After a 15-mile ride along the Arkansas River, a silent auction and raffle was held. Bidding frenzy was noted for coveted items donated by local businesses including Riders Ready, Arkansas Cycling and Fitness, the Community Bicyclist, and Chainwheel and for LIVESTRONG apparel donated by Rubicon-Orbea. Once the auction closed, team members gladly assisted with door prize drawings and then headed to the patio for autographs and photos under the stars!

Prior to the ride, Rubicon-Orbea members visited Arkansas Children’s Hospital to mingle with patients and hand out LIVESTRONG wristbands and autographed rider cards. Team members were challenged to show their “beyond bike” skills at water coloring, Wii games, yarn crafts, puzzles, and foosball in the hospital playroom. Most team members were up to the challenge, although a few struggled to keep up with the young lads!

The 2010 Team Rubicon-Orbea Arkansas event was a great success! Proceeds from this event and other Little Rock fundraising efforts total $6,320 for LAF! That’s approximately 4 TIMES our previous efforts and we are so grateful to everyone for supporting such a great cause and joining in the fight against cancer! -report by Jennifer L. Shaw