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2014 Bike MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride

Date(s): May 31-June 1, 2014
Start/Finish Location: Cape Charles, VA
Overnight Location: YMCA Camp Silver Beach (Jamesville, VA)
Route Options: 36, 75 and 100 each day
Age Minimum: 18
Fundraising Minimum: $300
Thousandaire Status: $1,200

Though the ride has come and gone, our job is not over! How much more can we raise to support the 5,600 individuals living with MS in Central & Eastern Virginia?

Fundraising Tools  Fundraising Incentives

2014 Pictures:

Bike MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride Pictures by Angie

Bike MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride Pictures by John 

Please note: pictures are best viewed with Firefox or Chrome web browsers.

 

 

About the Ride 

Enjoy the scenic roads of Virginia's Eastern Shore as you pedal along with other cyclists riding to create a world free of MS! You'll love the flat terrain as you travel through the quaint towns, pedal past corn fields, and experience the serene beauty of the Shore.

This fun and safe ride is fully supported with rest stops every 10-15 miles, Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles, medics, and bike mechanics from sponsoring bike shops.

We conclude the first day at YMCA Camp Silver Beach in Jamesville, VA where cyclists can enjoy a delicious cookout, massages, musical entertainment and an evening program. Sunday's route heads cyclists back to Cape Charles, VA for another fun finish line celebration.  The sense of accomplishment that you'll feel as you cross the finish line can only be matched by the knowledge that you are making a difference in the lives of people affected by MS.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to a vision of a world free of MS. Your participation in Bike MS provides help for today and hope for tomorrow by funding education programs, support services, advocacy, and research.

Participant Requirements

To participate and obtain a rider number all cyclists must:

Route Options

One Day (Saturday): 36, 75,  or 100 miles

  • Start: Cape Charles
  • Finish: YMCA Camp Silver Beach (Return shuttle provided to start.)

Two Day: 36, 75, or 100 miles each day

  • Start: Cape Charles
  • Overnight: YMCA Camp Silver Beach 
  • Sunday Finish: Cape Charles 

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Accommodations

Overnight Location

YMCA Camp Silver Beach
72 YMCA Lane
Jamesville, VA 23398

Friday Night Lodging

YMCA Camp Silver Beach is open for lodging on Friday night. Accommodations are the same as your Saturday night accommodation assignment.

  • Individuals who raise $1,200 by 5/30/14 can stay for FREE on Friday night.
  • Tent and Urban campers can stay for FREE Friday night.

Please RSVP to Karla McCarraher at 757-319-4253 or karla.mccarraher@nmss.org.

  • Bayview and Tower campers who have not reached Thousandaire status ($1,200) by 5/30/14 can pay $35 to stay Friday night.

Click here to pay for your Friday night lodging or call the Chapter at 757-490-9627. 

Saturday Night Lodging

Bayview (aka Bay Village Cottage) Deluxe Cabin located near the Bay with Bunk Beds and Shared Bathroom/Shower area.  All Men, All Women, and Co-Ed options available.
Tower Cottage Dormitory Style Cabin with Bunk Beds and Shared Bathroom/Shower area.  All Men, All Women, and Co-Ed options available.
Urban Camping Large, Open Indoor Room with Camp Mattresses provided. You may bring your own air mattress if you like. Indoor Bathroom in Room. Shower truck provided for your convenience.
Tent Camping Bring your own tent and set up wherever you like. Shower truck and Port-a-Johns provided for your convenience (or you may use the restroom in one of the cabins).
Own Accommodations/ Hotel Rather stay in a Hotel? Feel free to make your own hotel reservation. A complimentary shuttle will be operating Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning to take folks to the three closest hotels in Exmore, VA (Best Western, Hampton Inn, and Holiday Express).

Area Hotels 

$69.99 per night by calling hotel at 757-442-7378 and reserving under "Bike MS Rate"

$89.00 per night for 2 Queens or $104.00 per night for King Suite by calling hotel at 757-442-7722 and reserving under "Bike MS Rate"

$79.00 per night or $69.00 per night with minimum of 2 nights by calling hotel at 757-442-5522 and reserving under "Bike MS Rate"

 

Schedule

Saturday, May 31, 2014 

Saturday Route

6:00 a.m. Registration begins in Cape Charles.
7:00 a.m. Cue sheets distributed; cyclists depart in waves
7:30  a.m. Registration closes; last cyclists leave Cape Charles 
11:00 a.m. Cabana Snack Bar and pool open; cookout begins at CSB 
12:00 p.m. Beer Available at Outdoor Pavilion
1:00 p.m. Massages start in Program Lodge: Fee: $9/15 minutes; $18/30 minutes--Tips appreciated
3:00 p.m. Thousandaire Jerseys available for pick-up outside Silver Beach Main Office.
3:00 p.m. Cookout Ends.
3:30 p.m. Team photos at Amphitheater (SEE TEAM PHOTO SCHEDULE in your bike packet)
4:00 p.m. Dinner is served in the CSB Dining Hall
4:30 p.m. Band starts playing at Amphitheater.
5:00 p.m. All cyclists off the road--anyone still out will be sagged in with no exceptions.
6:00 p.m. Cabana Snack Bar and Beer Truck close
6:30 p.m. Dinner ends in Dining Hall
6:30 p.m. Saturday Night Ceremony begins at the Amphitheater (Band to play again after.)
10:00 p.m. Pool closes

Sunday, June 1, 2014 

Sunday Route 

5:30 a.m. Hot breakfast in CSB Dining Hall 
6:30 a.m. Turn in your rider number at the Outdoor Pavilion at CSB if you are not riding
7:00 a.m. Cue sheets available at CSB Main Gate (If you leave before this time, medics, route marshalls or rest stops will not be available.)
7:30  a.m. Last cyclists leave Silver Beach
11:00 a.m. Finish festivities begin 
5:00 p.m. Last cyclist off road--no exceptions! 

 

Big Wheels

The Bike MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride likes to honor cyclists who have ridden in at least five of our bike rides! These participants receive a special Bike MS Big Wheel Recognition T-shirt.

Are You a Big Wheel?

If you have already registered for Bike MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride and have participated in five more of our cycling events, you are all set for your Big Wheels!

If you have not registered, register today to get your recognition.

 

Guest Meals

Family and friends may join us for meals by purchasing meal bands:

  • Weekend Food Band includes Saturday Camp Silver Beach Lunch Cookout, Saturday Camp Silver Beach Dinner, and Sunday Food Finish Celebration=$20
  • Sunday Finish Food Band includes Sunday Food Finish Celebration only=$5

Meal Bands may be purchased in advance or at the information table at the Outdoor Pavilion. Food bands purchased in advance will be available for pick up Saturday at the Camp Silver Beach Outdoor Pavilion or Sunday at the Finish Line Sales table.

YMCA Camp Silver Beach: 6272 YMCA Lane, Jamesville, VA 23398

Sunday Finish/Bay Coast Railroad: Mason Avenue, Cape Charles, VA 23310

Please note that dogs are not permitted during the Bike MS weekend.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

About the Bike MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride | Donations, Submitting, Entering and Tracking

Matching Gifts | General |  About My Participant Center

About the Ride:

What is the minimum pledge?

All riders must turn in the minimum pledge amount of $300, but we encourage all participants to set higher goals for fundraising. In 2012, the rider average was over $890!

Why is there a fundraising minimum?

The primary goal of Bike MS is to raise funds to support those living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in our community. By raising funds, you are helping the National MS Society support vital medical research and local programs

When do I turn in my pledges?

Pledges can be turned in anytime from now until May 31, 2014. We encourage you to turn in pledges as you receive them using the Deposit Ticket you can find on the Fundraising page. You will also have time to send in funds after the ride, however, $300 must be turned in by May 31, 2014 for you to ride.

I cannot find my team from last year. How do I register with my team?

Unfortunately, our system does not carry forward teams from the previous year to automatically be listed for this year's ride. If you do not see your team, contact your team captain and ask them to get your team registered for this year so that the other team members can register as well or you may register and create your team.

Can I be added to a team if I didn’t indicate I was on a team when I registered?

You can be added to a team anytime by calling 757-490-9627 or via email at bike@msvirginia.org.

Can I have someone follow me in case I don't make it?

We prohibit personal vehicles on the route and in or around rest stops. We provide plenty of SAG vehicles to transport any cyclists in need.

Can my friends/family join me after the ride at Camp Silver Beach or at the Finish on Sunday?

For liability purposes, we must have an account of everyone involved with Bike MS, therefore, access to Camp Silver Beach is limited to cyclists, volunteers, and individuals who have purchased guest meals. Guest Meal bands will be available for purchase in the weeks prior to the ride.

How do my friends/family sign up to volunteer?

We always need great volunteers! Volunteers must be able to perform tasks such as setting up/breaking down rest stops; replenishing food and drink, etc. For a full list of volunteer needs or to register to volunteer for Bike MS, visit our volunteer page.

Will there be a way to get my luggage up to Camp Silver Beach, or do I have to carry all my gear on my bicycle?

We will transport your luggage to Silver Beach. Riders are entitled to two pieces weighing no more than 35 pounds each. Be sure to attach the luggage tags you get in your registration packet to your items.

I can’t ride on Saturday. Can I join in on Sunday?

Unfortunately this causes too many logistical difficulties for us. But if you would still like to be involved on Sunday, then please consider being a volunteer.

I can only ride on Saturday, can I still participate?

YES, we have a one day ride option on Saturday.  Ride Saturday, enjoy dinner and the festivities at Camp Silver Beach and then return home!

Can I leave my vehicle at the Start location for the weekend?

Yes. Security will be patrolling the lot at the Start/Finish location throughout the weekend and overnight Please observe a safe distance from the rail tracks when parking, or your car WILL BE TOWED at your expense.

Is there a minimum age requirement to participate?

Yes. All cyclists must be at least 18 years of age by May 31, 2014.

What if it rains the weekend of the ride?

We ride rain or shine. If it rains, grab your poncho--you have trained for months and we want you to be able to complete this course. If there are severe storms with high winds, hail or torrential rain, the ride will be canceled or the course will the shortened or adjusted to ensure the safety of our cyclists and volunteers. Registration fees are non-refundable.

Where do I do with my bike on Saturday night? 

Cyclists have several options. If staying at Camp Silver Beach, bike can be brought into cabins or stored on the porch of a cabin or at the chapel. If staying at a hotel, bikes can be transported to the hotel via the shuttle or can be stored at the chapel. Locked not provided. 

Can I pull a trailer or tag along?

For the safety of all riders, no tag alongs, carriers, or trailers may be pulled by bikes during Bike MS. 

What kind of food can I expect during the ride?

Our volunteer staffed rest stops (placed every 10-15 miles) provide nutritious fruits, snacks, water, and Gatorade. Lunch will be served on the route on Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday afternoon a cookout will be provided at Camp Silver beach as well as a buffet dinner. At the conclusion of the ride on Sunday, a food finish will be provided.

Are pets allowed?

Pets are prohibited at the ride, however, service animals are welcome.

 

Donations: Submitting, Entering, and Tracking:

When do donations need to be turned in by?

To receive a rider number and participate, all cyclists must turn in the required minimum $300 in donations by the morning of the ride. 

How do I turn in donations?

Please be sure to include your name and team name (if applicable) to ensure we properly credit your account. 

Mail to: National MS Society, Bike MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride, 760 Lynnhaven Parkway, Ste 201, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 OR National MS Society, BIke MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride, 4200 Innslake Drive, Suite 301, Glen Allen, VA 23060

Pay or raise the minimum online. It’s the fastest, easiest way to fundraise. No paper, no mail. You don’t even have to leave your computer!

Call in your minimum. Pay by credit card. Call 757.490.9627.

Can I mail in cash?

For any cash donations you receive, please deposit the contribution into your checking account and send in a personal check or make a personal donation online. Checks should be made out to the National MS Society. Please put your name on the memo line of each check.  

Can I send a money order or cashier’s check?

Yes, we accept money orders and cashier’s checks for donations and registration fees.

Can I use FedEx, UPS or Certified Mail to turn in my donations?

Yes, it is encouraged to mail donations via a method that can be tracked. At your discretion, you may use the above methods to turn in your donations. Please note that if sending regular mail, we cannot be responsible for the US Postal Service.

I mailed/dropped off donations at the Chapter office, but they do not appear in My Account.

Please allow 10-15 business days for processing. If the donation does not appear after 15 business days, please contact us at 757.490.9627 or bike@msvirginia.org. Please note that if sending regular mail, we cannot be responsible for the US Postal Service.

Can I send in donations for more than one cyclist in one envelope?

Yes, but please be very specific as to how the donations should be credited. The more information you provide, the faster we can process your donations.

Someone made a donation to my team, rather to a team member. Can it be changed?

Yes, please contact us at 804.353.5008 or bike@msvirginia.org.

What if my donor makes the check payable to me?

No problem. Just endorse the back "Payable to NMSS." Then sign it and get it to us.

How do I split gifts between multiple riders?

We are happy to split donations between multiple riders; however, each rider must be registered at the time the donation is received, and designation (amount and participant info) must be included with the donation at the time it is mailed or turned in.

What can I do to make sure my donations are credited to my account?

Please make sure that your name is written in the memo line on all checks and/or include a note with your name and mailing address you used when you registered.

Should I enter my offline (check or cash) donations in My Account?

You can, please note that donations will not count toward your fundraising until the Chapter receives them. If you enter your offiline donations, please make sure to include complete name and address information for your donors to ensure that the donations are credited properly when received.

The total amount ‘I have raised’ does not reflect all the donations?

Donations marked unconfirmed will not be reflected in your total amount raised. Although you can see ‘unconfirmed’ donations in the ‘Progress Section’ of your account, they will not appear in your total ‘I have raised’ amount. Only donations marked ‘confirmed’ will be calculated in the amount you have raised. Rider numbers and prizes will only be given out based on cyclists confirmed donations. Note that ‘unconfirmed’ matching gift donations do count toward prizes and fundraising incentives, see information regarding matching gifts below. 

What is the difference between a ‘confirmed’ and ‘unconfirmed’ donation?

Donations are marked ‘unconfirmed’ if the participant has entered them through My Account manually. Donations will be marked ‘confirmed’ once the Chapter has received them. Also, matching gifts submitted will be marked ‘unconfirmed’ until the Bike MS staff receives the money for the matching gift from the company. See information regarding matching gifts below. 

Why is Chapter listed as a donor on my pledge report?

If we receive an offline contribution that does not include the donor's name and/or mailing address, it will be credited to your account under the name Hampton Roads Bike MS. To update this information, please email bike@msvirginia.org

What happens to the donations if I can no longer participate in the event?

All registration fees and donations are non-returnable and non-transferable. Your donations allow the National MS Society to fund vital medical research and support local residents in the community living with MS, regardless of your participation in the event.

Can I obtain a copy of your 501(c)(3) letter and/or tax id number?

Please email bike@msvirginia.org to receive a copy of this letter.

Are donations tax deductible?

All donations are tax deductible in the same calendar year your donation was processed to the extent allowed by law. Please work with your tax professional to determine what deductions you are eligible for.

What if my donors need a receipt?

Sponsors who make an online donation via our website will receive an email confirmation that can be used for tax purposes. Offline check or credit card contributions that are received and made out to the National MS Society for $100 or more will receive a thank you letter from us that can be used for tax purposes. In addition, your donors cashed check acts as a receipt.

 

Matching Gifts

What are matching gifts?

Matching gifts are an easy way to double your donations, boost your fundraising and help you achieve higher fundraising levels, earn great prizes, and become a Thousandaire. Many companies offer a matching gift program to encourage employees to contribute or volunteer their time to charitable organizations. Although the process for matching gifts varies at each company, most programs match contributions dollar for dollar. Some will also provide funds for volunteer hours.  

How do I know if my company or my donors company has a matching gift program?

Contact your company’s HR department and inquire about a matching gift program and matching gift processes. If you don't have an HR department, you can click here to check and see if your company matches. Ask all your donors to do the same, and encourage them to take advantage of the program by completing the appropriate process designated by their company.

Do matching gifts count toward my required $300 minimum donations?

Yes, matching gifts do count toward your required $300 minimum donations, as well as Thousandaire status and fundraising prizes and incentives. 

How can I submit a matching gift?

Please check with your company's HR department to learn how to submit a matching gift. The process and program is unique to each company. There are three common ways to submit a matching gift donation: 1.) paper form with your check donation or after an online donation has been made 2.) online form through your company portal after the donation was made 3.) company donation portal. Please confirm with your company to for the proper process to submit a matching gift.

How can I ensure my matching gift is submitted correctly?

When submitting a company matching gift, or encouraging your donor to do so, please ensure you are submitting the gift to the National MS Society in Richmond or Virginia Beach, VA.

How can I confirm my submitted matching gift form was received and entered?

You can view your donations by logging into your account. Once a matching gift form/notification is received by the Chapter it will be entered into your Bike MS account for the year the donation was made.  The matching gift will be entered as an ‘offline unconfirmed’ gift until money for the matching gift is received from the company. The Name of the donation will appear as: Company Name, Matching(Company(Donors Name Matching Gift)). Entry example: Johnson & Johnson Matching Gifts Program, Matching (Johnson & Johnson(John Smith Matching Gift)).

I thought I submitted a matching gift, but do not see it showing in My Account.

Please contact us at 757-490-9627 or bike@msvirginia.org follow up on your matching gift submission.

My matching gift donations are not included in my total amount raised.

Unfortunately your matching gifts will not appear in your total amount raised until the matching gift money is received from the company and the donation is marked ‘confirmed'. When the money is received, the matching gift donation will be marked ‘confirmed’ and will appear in the total amount ‘I have raised’.

Why are my matching gift donations showing as unconfirmed donations?

Each company’s matching gift policy and practices differ, including when the matching gift check is sent to Bike MS. All matching gifts are entered as ‘unconfirmed’ when notification of the matching gift is received. Once the actual donations arrive/checks are mailed from the company, the particular matching gift will be marked as ‘confirmed.’ Although marked ‘unconfirmed,’ matching gifts will count toward your prizes and Thousandaire. Entry Example: GE Foundation, Matching (GE Foundation (Bob Smith Matching Gift)) 

If my matching gift donations are not included in my total amount raised, will I still qualify for fundraising prizes, incentives and VIP status?

Yes, Bike MS will include ‘unconfirmed’ matching gift amounts in your fundraising totals when calculating fundraising prizes and incentives. Please also include them when calculating your total amount raised and fundraising goal. 

How long does it take for Bike MS to receive the matching gift money and mark my matching gift donation confirmed?

This process and timeline varies for each company. Some companies cut checks quarterly and some yearly. It can sometimes take at least six months for Bike MS to receive monies from a particular company. Please check with your company regarding their process and practices.

Can my matching gift be used for next year’s Bike Ride?

No, matching gifts can only be applied to the same year the contribution was credited.

 

General

I forgot my Username and Password.

Remember that your username and password are case sensitive. If you have problems, please contact us at bike@msvirginia.org for help.

How do I change my Username and/or Password?

First, login to the site using your username and password. Once logged in you will see a link at the top of the page called "Update My Profile." Once in your profile, you will be able to change your contact information, e-mail address, username and password. All changes will be made to your account immediately. There is no need to sign in again.

How do I unsubscribe from e-mail?

Towards the bottom of each e-mail message there is a link stating, "Click Here to Unsubscribe from this E-mail Message." Click this link and follow the instructions given to unsubscribe.credited.

 

About My Participant Center

What is a Personal Page?

A personal page is an online promotional tool for your use when asking your friends and family to join your team or sponsor you by making a donation. Once you sign up for an event online, by default, you will have a personal page created for you. You have the option of personalizing this page by going to your participant center. You will be able to customize images, text and the style/color layout of the page.

By default I have a personal page, do I have to change it?

Once you sign up for an event online, by default, you will have a personal page created for you. A compelling personal page attracts and engages supporters. While you can spread the word using customized e-mail solicitations, your personal campaign page can be your own creative expression of your commitment to the cause. Customize your page by selecting the layout and style that work best for you. Utilize the elements of text, photo and status indicators to their fullest advantage.

How do I change my personal fundraising goal?

First, you will need to login to the Participant Center. On the bottom right side of the Center home page is the location to modify your personal fundraising goal. Enter your new goal and submit the changes. Tip: Once you reach your goal, go back in and raise it. You'll be surprised that people will continue to sponsor you, if they believe you are still trying to reach your goal.

How do I change my team name, team division or team goal?

Only the team captain has the ability to change the team name or team division. The team captain will need to login to his/her center and click the "My Team Progress" button on the top right. On the Team Progress page, team captains will have the ability to update the team name, division and goal.

How can I see who has donated to me?

Login to the site using your Username and Password. Go to your Center and click the "My Progress" tab; this will allow you to view your donor list and any amounts having been donated.

How can I see who is on my team?

Login to the site using your Username and Password. Go to your Center and click the "Team Progress" tab; this will allow you to view your team roster and the amounts raised by each team member.

What is a team message?

Simply go to your Center and click the "Update Message to Team" button. This will allow you to make all necessary changes to your team message.

What is the difference between making my personal page private or public?

By default, a personal page is Public, meaning your name will appear in the participant search list, and anyone accessing the site will be able to support you. Setting your personal page to Private means your name will not appear in the participant search list, and only people you personally invite will be able to support you.

 

Contact

If you would like more information about Bike MS: Virginia's Ocean to Bay Ride, please contact the Bike MS Director:

Karla McCarraher

t+ 757.319.4253

f+ 757.490.1617

e +karla.mccarraher@nmss.org

m+ 760 Lynnhaven Parkway, Suite 201, Virginia Beach, VA 23452

Thank you to our premier national sponsors

Become a Sponsor
 

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