Spring is finally upon us which means our training rides are back in session!  Once again, the Team Crutchfield riders are preparing for this year's MS "Tour de Vine" Bike Tour, taking place June 7 and 8.  This year's event will build upon the very successful 2007 Tour de Vine, and will once again be headquartered at St. Anne's Belfield school in Charlottesville.  Opportunities abound in this year's tour with routes for all bicyclists at all levels.  Routes of 25, 50, 75, and 100 miles will travel through scenic Albemarle County, Crozet, and Batesville with plenty of festive reststops along the way!  As always, strong emphasis is placed on safety and fun, while building fitness and raising money for our wonderful Blue Ridge Chapter of the MS Society.

Our team is headed into its eighth year now, and we're expecting another banner season.  Amazingly, our teams and sponsors raised over $28,000 last year, bringing much hope and joy to many of the 2,500 multiple sclerosis victims in our area.  Our seven year total has now surpassed $86,200 and we look forward to adding to those totals.  The excitement is in the air as many new and old riders have already signed on for this year's adventure!  If you're looking for competition, you've come to the wrong place!  This team is all about helping our local MS chapter, learning about cycling, safety on the roads, better health, and having a good time.  Come experience the fun!

The money raised benefits our local Blue Ridge Chapter of the National MS Society, which provides vital programs for 2,500 people with MS and their families who live in 51 counties of western and central Virginia.  MS is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system.  It's progress, severity, and specific symptoms are unpredictable.  Symptoms range from numbness and paralysis to blindness and disabling fatigue.  Most folks with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, and the effects typically remain for the rest of their lives.

You, relatives, and friends are invited to join us as Team Crutchfield on this great adventure to fight MS while improving your own health!