Rotary members and staff biked 104 miles in the annual El Tour de Tucson, raising $6 million for the fight to end polio.
Photo Credit: James S. Wood
 
Rotary General Secretary John Hewko and six RI staff members bicycled 104 miles in Tucson Arizona, USA, on Saturday, for the Miles to End Polio event, raising more than $6 million for polio eradication.
 
The money raised by Rotary will receive a two-to-one match from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
 
In addition to the team from Evanston, 100 Rotary member riders took part in the ride.
 
The fundraising ride is part of the annual El Tour de Tucson bike event in Tucson, Arizona, USA. The race attracts more than 9,000 cyclists a year, making it one of the top cycling events in the U.S. The Rotary team from Evanston was joined by Rotary members from Arizona's District 5500, and other members from around the world.
 
Hewko tweeted that he finished the race in 5 hours and 2 minutes.
 
"Really enjoyed riding in El Tour de Tucson along with 100 Rotarians and members of the Rotary International staff," Hewko added. "As a group we were able to raise over $6 million for polio eradication which will help bring us even closer to the dream of a polio-free world. I am deeply moved by the generosity and passion of Rotarians around the world and Rotary staff."
 
By Ryan Hyland
Rotary News
23-Nov-2014