Registration
Fundraising
Cycling Information
Event Weekend
General Information

REGISTRATION

How do I register for the Land Rover Miramar MS Bay to Bay Bike Tour?
What are the registration fees for the MS Bike Tour?
How old must I be to participate?
Can people who haven't registered show up and ride on the morning of the MS Bike Tour?
Is there a cancellation policy?
When will I receive my rider number, luggage tag, and bike number?
How do I start a team?
I will be out of town during the MS Bike Tour, can I still participate as a Virtual Rider?

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Q.  How do I register for the Land Rover Miramar MS Bay to Bay Bike Tour?
A.  You may register online or mail in your registration form to: National MS Society, 5950 La Place Court, Suite 200, Carlsbad, CA  92008.  The tour is limited to 2,500 participants and registration will be closed upon reaching the maximum number of riders.  Therefore, mailed registrations are not guaranteed admission into the tour if received after registration closes. (Back to Registration)

Q.  What are the registration fees for the MS Bike Tour?
A.   Registration fees are nonrefundable, nontransferable, and not applicable to the minimum pledge.  Tandem riders are considered two individuals on one bicycle and each individual is required to register.  The registration fees are:

Early Registration Fee (February 1, 2007 - May 31, 2007)
$50 Early Registration Fee
$70 Early Registration Fee AND Saturday Transportation
$70 Early Registration Fee AND Sunday Transportation

Registration Fee (June 1, 2007 - September 30, 2007)
$60 Registration Fee
$80 Registration Fee AND Saturday transportation
$80 Registration Fee AND Sunday transportation

Late Registration Fee* (October 1, 2007 - October 6, 2007)
$460 Late Registration Fee and Pledge Minimum
$480 Late Registration Fee, pledge minimum AND Saturday transportation
$480 Late Registration Fee, pledge minimum AND Sunday transportation
*All riders who register after September 30, 2007 will be required to provide donations meeting or exceeding the pledge minimum upon registration. (Back to Registration)

Q.  How old must I be to participate?
A.  The minimum age to participate in the MS Bike Tour is 10 years of age. All riders between the ages of 10-17 must be accompanied by and adult (21 years or older) at all times, on and off the route.  If an underage rider is picked up by one of our SAG vehicles, the accompanying adult must stay with the under aged rider.  Additionally, all participants 17 and under must have their parent or legal guardian's signature on the waiver form when picking up their riding credentials. You will eventually be able to download the waiver from our website or contact the Chapter office at (760) 448-8400 to request a paper copy. (Back to Registration)

Q.  Can people who haven't registered show up and ride on the morning of the MS Bike Tour?
A.  No registrations will be accepted the morning of the ride.  IF, AND ONLY IF, we have not reached our capacity of 2,500 and registration is still open, the final registration opportunity will be at our final Rider Check-In on Friday, October 12, 2007.

*All riders who register after September 30, 2007 will be required to provide donations meeting or exceeding the pledge minimum upon registration. (Back to Registration)

Q. Is there a cancellation policy?
A. Due to the limited spaces available on this Tour, you will be held responsible for the minimum pledge of $400 if you are unable to participate and do not give prior notice.  If you have registered for the event and are unable to participate, we ask that you please email Merri Hulet or call her at (760) 448-8419 prior to the event to avoid this fee.  Please note that once cancelled, your rider number will be marked inactive. (Back to Registration)

Q.  When will I receive my rider number, luggage tag, and bike number?
A.  Approximately two weeks prior to the event, we will host several Rider Check-ins throughout Southern California.  ALL riders will be required to attend one of our Rider Check-Ins.  For out of area riders, we will host a final Check-in on Friday, October 12, 2007 at our host hotel. (Back to Registration)

Q. How do I start a team?
A.  You can start a team by visiting  www.biketofinishms.com, clicking on Register Here and then selecting the option to Start a Team.  If you are already registered as an individual, you can contact TeamMS at 760-448-8422 and a team coach will help you start a team. (Back to Registration)

Q. I will be out of town during the MS Bike Tour, can I still participate as a Virtual Rider?
A.  Yes!  If you won't be able to join us for the MS Bike Tour you can still participate and fundraise through our online Virtual Rider Program.  All you have to do is register (you can participate individually or join a team) and select "Virtual Rider".  Then you can start your fundraising to earn great prizes and help raise money in the fight against MS. Virtual Riders are eligible to be members of teams, earn fundraising prizes and are required to pay the registration fee and meet the fundraising minimum of $400. (Back to Registration)

FUNDRAISING

Is there a fundraising requirement for the MS Bike Tour?
What fundraising resources are available?
When and where do I turn in my donations?
When should I collect my donations to ensure that I raise the $400 minimum?
Who should checks be made out to?
What do I do with money that I want split amongst two or more individuals?
Can I transfer my online donation(s) to another participant?
How can I become a Top Fundraiser and what are the benefits?
How do I earn prizes?
Where does my money go?

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Q.  Is there a fundraising requirement for the MS Bike Tour?
A.  Yes, to continue our efforts to find a cure for MS, every rider is required to raise a minimum of $400, even tandem riders (registration fees are not applicable).  All riders are required to fulfill the $400 fundraising minimum in order to check-in and receive rider packet. (Back to Fundraising)

Q. What fundraising resources are available?
A.  Once you register, you can start fundraising right away!  Start by customizing your webpage to share your story of why you are participating.  Send emails to friends, family and co-workers asking them to support you.  Download your Rider Materials and forms from the Printed Materials page!  Staff is also on hand to help you come up with new and creative fundraising ideas, you can contact the MS Bike Team at (800)486-6762. (Back to Fundraising)

Q.  When and where do I turn in my donations?
A.  Online fundraising is the key to success!  Studies show that fundraisers who solicit donations via email, Monday through Friday 9 AM - 5 PM, are more than twice as likely to receive contributions.  Donations not received online should be mailed to the NMSS at 5950 La Place Court, Suite 200, Carlsbad, CA  92008.  You will also have an opportunity to submit donations in person at one of our Rider Check-In locations. (Back to Fundraising)

Q.  When should I collect my donations to ensure that I raise the $400 minimum?
A.  As soon as possible. It's best to collect donations as soon as you can; remember that you are required to raise a minimum of $400 in order to ride.  Take advantage of our online donation feature and watch your donations grow!  If your sponsor gives you cash and wants a receipt, you can download receipts from our website or just call the Chapter at (800) 486-6762 and we'll send them to you.  Remember...try to collect all donations before October 1, 2007. The final deadline to collect your donations to be eligible for prizes will be announced at a later date. (Back to Fundraising)

Q. Who should checks be made out to?
A.  For sponsors who prefer to donate by check, make checks payable to the National MS Society or NMSS and be sure to put the rider's name and 2007 MS Bike Tour on the memo line of the check. (Back to Fundraising)

Q.  What do I do with money that I want split amongst two or more individuals?
A.  If you have money that is to be divided among two or more individuals, a donation distribution form must be completed and submitted with all donations that are to be distributed. All individuals list on the form will be credited the amount indicated on the Donation Distribution form. Donations made online cannot be split.  If someone would like to make a credit card donation to be divided amongst two or more individuals, please contact Nicole Pearson at (760) 448-8422.  (Back to Fundraising)

Q.  Can I transfer my online donation(s) to another participant?
A.  No. Funds cannot be transferred from one rider to another once the funds have been assigned to an individual online.  If someone would like to make a credit card donation to be divided amongst your team, please contact Nicole Pearson at (760) 448-8422. (Back to Fundraising)

Q.  How can I become a Top Fundraiser and what are the benefits?
A.  To be recognized as a Top Fundraiser at the 2007 MS Bike Tour you need to raise $2,000.  You will receive a special Top Fundraiser jersey and VIP admittance for you and a guest to the Top Fundraiser tent at the overnight location where you will join other Top Fundraisers for complimentary appetizers and beverages.  If you were one of the Top 150 Fundraisers at the 2006 MS Bike Tour you're eligible to priority and complimentary registration in 2007.  You will receive a commemorative gold rider number indicating your fundraising status (i.e. the TOP fundraiser in 2006 will be #1), and a variety of other special Top Fundraiser benefits including a commemorative 150 Club wearable. (Back to Fundraising)

Q.  How do I earn prizes?
A.  Prizes are based on actual donations received by November 30, 2007. (Back to Fundraising)

Q. Where does my money go?
A.  82 cents of each dollar raised goes directly to National MS Society programs and services for people with MS (60% after costs), as well as to research (40% after costs). About 18% of funds raised goes towards adminstrative costs. (Back to Fundraising)

CYCLING

Is this a race?
Are the roads closed during the ride?
What type of route support can I expect on the tour?
What is a preferred start time?
What is the San Elijo Hills Century Challenge?
Do I have to ride both days?
Will I need to carry identification or medical information?
Do I have to wear a helmet?

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Q.  Is this a race?
A.  No, this is a fun ride for all skill levels and it is not timed. Form a team with friends and/or family and enjoy an unforgettable day! (Back to Cycling)

Q.  Are the roads closed during the ride?
A.  No, cyclists will be riding on the road alongside vehicles and pedestrians.  Participants are required to follow all rules of the road.  If a cyclists is seen breaking the law they will be pulled from the course. (Back to Cycling)

Q.  What type of route support can I expect on the tour?
A.  Every rider will receive route slips with turn by turn directions for the route and the route will be marked with arrows to lead you.  Fully stocked rest stops will be provided every 10-15 miles.  Every rest stop has snacks, hydration beverages, mechanical support, an EMT, and portable bathrooms.  From Start to Finish, our Safety Crew provides additional support. (Back to Cycling)

Q. What is a preferred start time?
A.  When MS Bike Tour participants pick up their rider packets at Rider Check-In they will be assigned a start time to eliminate the wait time riders experience during the staggered start.  A staggered start releases 50 riders onto the route every 3-5 minutes. (Back to Cycling)

Q. What is the San Elijo Hills Century Challenge?
A.  The MS Bay to Bay Bike Tour offers one of the most challenging and scenic Century rides for experienced cyclists in California.  The Century Challenge adds an additional 50 miles to the route on Saturday through North San Diego County's beautiful backcountry, with a finishing stretch along the Coast to cool you down. Century riders ride 100 miles on Saturday and 50 miles on Sunday. (Back to Cycling)

Q. Do I have to ride both days?
A.  No, MS Bike Tour cyclists do not have to ride both days of the tour.  The participants are still required to pay the full registration fee and raise the minimum of $400.  If a participant decides not to ride on a particular day they are responsible for arranging their own transportation for themselves and their bicycles. (Back to Cycling)

Q.  Will I need to carry identification or medical information?
A.  Each participant MUST carry a current driver's license, state I.D. or student I.D., with them at all times. Riders may be required to show their ID in order to pass through Camp Pendleton AND it is imperative that each rider is easily identified should an accident occur.  We also require each participant to submit emergency contact information upon registration.  This information will only be used if an accident occurs during the event. (Back to Cycling)

Q.  Do I have to wear a helmet?
A.  All cyclists are required to wear helmets; it is a MS Bike Tour requirement.  Your safety is of the utmost importance to us. (Back to Cycling)

EVENT WEEKEND

How many pieces of luggage can I bring and how does it get to where I am going?
Is there storage for my bike in Carlsbad?
Where do I sleep?
Will I get fed?
What if it rains during the MS Bike Tour?
What should I pack for the ride?
Are there transportation options if I live in San Diego?
How do I return to Irvine after the ride?
If I am taking the bus how does my bicycle get transported?

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Q.  How many pieces of luggage can I bring and how does it get to where I am going?
A.  Each rider is allowed to bring ONE piece of luggage that will be tagged to correspond to your rider number. We ask that the bag be no heavier than 30 pounds since volunteers will be loading and unloading the luggage truck. Once you arrive at the start line, drop off your luggage at the truck labeled "Luggage Truck." Make sure that you have all belongings (Identification, bike supplies) that you plan on carrying with you before you hand your luggage to the volunteer.

Your luggage will be waiting for you in a designated area at the overnight location at the Westfield in Carlsbad. Please have your rider number bib handy for the attendants so they can quickly retrieve your bag for you.  On the morning of Day Two, drop off your luggage at the "Luggage Truck" and pick it up at the finish line in Carlsbad. Please remember that you are responsible for your luggage as soon as you arrive in Mission Bay. (Back to Event Weekend)

Q.  Is there storage for my bike in Carlsbad?
A.  We offer a secured overnight bike locker with 24 hour security guards at the overnight location, Westfield in Carlsbad.  The bike locker is a locked, fenced-in area in the parking lot with bike racks.  All riders will deposit and retrieve their own bicycles on these bike racks. We highly suggest that you take off any removable equipment as we are not responsible for lost or damaged items. The bike locker is locked from 6pm to 6am, during which time you will not have access, no exceptions. (Back to Event Weekend)

Q.  Where do I sleep?
A.  All MS Bike Tour participants are responsible for coordinating their overnight accommodations.  Our new overnight location provides the opportunity for riders to choose from several hotels and thousands of hotel rooms within seven miles.  Continuous shuttle service will be provided to and from the hotels listed on our site.  There are a limited amount of camping sites available near our overnight location, however, shuttle service will not be provided to those sites.  South Carlsbad State Beach is the closest campground, but it books up quickly.  Click here for more information. (Back to Event Weekend)

Q. Will I get fed?
A.  The Tour provides food and beverages along the route.  At every rest stop, there will be water, sports drinks and light snacks.  Lunch is served both days.  Dinner and breakfast will be served at the Carlsbad overnight location.  Friends and Family can purchase meal tickets at our Information Booth located at all three sites. (Back to Event Weekend)

Q.  What if it rains during the MS Bike Tour?
A.  It is not allowed to rain for our bike tour...but if it does, the MS Bike Tour will take place rain or shine. (Back to Event Weekend)

Q. What should I pack for the ride?
A. Here's a helpful packing list of items you will want to bring with you on the ride. (Back to Event Weekend)

Q.  Are there transportation options if I live in San Diego?
A.  Transportation service is available on Saturday morning from San Diego to the start line in Irvine for those riders living in the San Diego and surrounding areas.  Please make sure to choose the registration fee that includes pre-event transportation service from San Diego to the start line in Irvine on Saturday, October 13, 2007 when registering.  Participants can add the transportation service up to October 1, 2007 if this option was not selected during the registration process.  The fee is an additional $20 and must be paid by credit card when this service is requested.  Please contact Merri Hulet at (760) 448-8419 or Randi Bretz at (760) 448-8418 to add the coach service to your registration. (Back to Event Weekend)

Q.  How do I return to Irvine after the ride?
A.  Transportation service is available via luxury bus at the finish line in San Diego for those riders that need transportation back to Orange County. Please make sure to choose the registration fee that includes transportation service from the finish line to Irvine on Sunday, October 14, 2007 when registering.

Participants can add the transportation service up to October 1, 2007 if this option was not selected during the registration process.  The fee is an additional $20 and must be paid by credit card when this service is requested.  Please contact Merri Hulet at (760) 448-8419 or Randi Bretz at (760) 448-8418 to add the transportation service to your registration. (Back to Event Weekend)

Q.  If I am taking the bus how does my bicycle get transported?
A.  If you are utilizing the transportation service on either Saturday morning or Sunday afternoon, your bike will be wrapped, padded, and secured in an Ace Relocation Systems moving van and transported separately.  Rider numbers must remain on the bike for transportation. (Back to Event Weekend)

GENERAL INFORMATION

How do I volunteer?
What if I have more questions?

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Q. How do I volunteer?
A. The MS Bike Tour is a great opportunity for people to come together outside of work and school or to change up your daily routine!  This year we are recruiting more than 1,000 volunteers for the MS Bike Tour. To register as a volunteer visit the Volunteer Information link on the MS Bike Tour website. (Back to General Information)

Q.  What if I have more questions?
A.  For more information, contact the Pacific South Coast Chapter at (800) 486-6762 and we will be happy to assist you. (Back to General Information)