By By Steve Gillespie / staff writer
May 7, 2004
A group of lady bikers called "The Relay Riders" is due to roar into Meridian today for a news conference at Chunky River Harley-Davidson/Buell on Bonita Lakes Drive.
Led by Sue Harris, a Meridian native who lives in west Tennessee, 11 motorcyclists will make the 500-mile round trip from Jackson, Tenn., to Meridian, and back again to help raise money for the American Cancer Society.
The bikers expect to arrive at Chunky River Harley Davidson between 11 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.
The cancer society's annual Relay for Life fund-raising campaign is in full swing now and Harris, who is her team's captain, said her local Relay in Tennessee will be held tonight.
Money raised for the cancer society is used for research, educational resources and services for cancer patients. Harris said her team's original goal was $2,500, but The Relay Riders have already earned $6,000.
Harris, a cancer survivor, was in Meridian last week for the funeral of her father, Clifton Moore Sr., who was a long-time cancer patient.
She said several people are probably also acquainted with her late father's sister, Elsie White, 82, of Meridian, who is the honorary road chairman of The Relay Riders team.
Contacted at her home Thursday, White said she is excited.
White said she wanted to participate in the event because Relay for Life is a worthy cause.
Harris said lots of money has been contributed to her team in memory of her father.
Lauderdale County Relay for Life chairman Becky Vance said she is excited about The Relay Riders arrival and she wants the public to show its support of the group.
GET INVOLVED LOCALLY
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Lauderdale County's Relay for Life. It starts June 11, at 7 p.m., at Meridian High School's Ray Stadium. The all-night walk-a-thon ends June 12, at 6 a.m.