The sunny weather on Saturday was perfect for a bike ride, which worked out perfectly for SCAVMA’s Ride the Heart of the Valley third annual fundraiser. The fundraiser this year was very successful, drawing in 59 participants, 14 more than last year. In addition, there were more community members who joined the ride this year, achieving one of the goals that was set for this year’s ride.
Not only did the event draw in more participants, but over $2200 was raised for OSU’s Olive K. Britt Endowment for Emergency Animal Care and the Benton County Health Center, which was over twice as much as last year. Donations were from participants, private donations from community members and local businesses. A Kindle and a $25 Amazon Kindle Gift certificate—donated by Brian and Lisa Schneider, Valley Insurance Professionals, the new AVMA GHLIT Representatives—was won by Angela Schlenker for raising the most money for the event.
The ride was successful and enjoyable. The weather was sunny and the beautiful scenery along the river and through some of Corvallis’s parks was appreciated. Prior to the ride, participants were provided with free bike tune-ups, courtesy of Peak Sports. After the ride, cyclists had access to many brochures on nutrition and fitness, fulfilling the One Health challenge goal of promoting obesity awareness. Lastly, participants were entertained with music from DJ Brrd, a local DJ, and enjoyed Vietnamese sandwiches, chips, and cookies.
“The ride was a lot of work but also a lot of fun. I look forward to seeing what more we can bring to the event next year,” said Leslie Dunham, a second-year student on the RHV Planning Committee. Seeing that the event was so successful this year, hopes are high for next year’s Ride the Heart of the Valley.
