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The first leg of the ride from Houston to La Grange has been closed. About 13,000 riders are expected to take part in this year’s BP MS 150. The 180-mile bike ride from Houston to Austin raises money for multiple sclerosis research and programs.
Mark Neagli is with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. He says this is only the second time they’ve had to cancel a ride day.
“We’re going to have to work with them to make sure they have their full experience on day two, but the safety aspect of canceling day one was of the utmost importance,” Neagli says.
Day two of the ride from La Grange to Austin is expected to proceed as scheduled. Riders have the option of taking an 86 or 66-mile route. Neagli says the riders will have to make their own way to the starting line in La Grange, but organizers are providing some free buses.
“We will have people driving up and leaving their cars in La Grange,” he says. “We’ll bus them back from Austin to La Grange on Sunday afternoon after they finish their ride.”
Organizers are issuing updates online and through text message alerts.