Bemidji readies for major bike event

BEMIDJI, Minn., — More than 1,000 visitors are expected to arrive Sunday in Bemidji as the city for the first time hosts MS TRAM, a 250-mile bicycle ride.

“We have the opportunity to wow upwards of 1,000 folks in one afternoon or evening,” said Lori Paris, president of the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce.

The five-day TRAM — The Ride Across Minnesota — is held annually in different parts of the state. This year’s ride goes from Bemidji to Alexandria with overnight stops in Walker, Park Rapids, Wadena and Fergus Falls.

“Bemidji’s beautiful,” said Anna Kucera, marketing and public relations director for the National MS Society Upper Midwest Chapter. “The city really is rolling out the red carpet for us. We’re happy to be there.”

More than 800 cyclists are registered for the event, which aims this year to raise more than $820,000 for funding for the battle against multiple sclerosis. Each cyclist raises $300 in donations in addition to paying a registration fee.

While the TRAM begins Monday morning, cyclists and volunteers will begin arriving Sunday afternoon in Bemidji.

Tags: news, minnesota, cycling