$16 million, 377 thousand and 287 dollars. That was the huge news from The SMART Ride yesterday at their annual check presentation ceremony at Hunters in Wilton Manors. That was the total of the 20 year history for the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ HIV / AIDS charity bike ride that has given 100% of those funds to LGBTQ+ non profits in South Florida and Florida. Smart Ride 20 was the final ride. The emotional ceremony was hosted by founder and executive director Glen Weinzimer. City Commissioner Chris Caputo read a proclamation recognizing Smart Ride’s incredible achievement. Hundreds attended a celebration brunch. The check presentations included the 6 major beneficiaries including South Florida’s Broward House, Pridelines, Compass; AH Monroe; Orlando’s Miracle of Love; and Tampa Bay’s Empath EPIC. The six beneficiaries received between $200 and $300 thousand each in both giant symbolic checks and the actual check itself. The FANTASTIC news was bittersweet. The beneficiaries announced they would announce in February there would be some form of shorter day ride from Key West In Mid November. A video was played of the first announcement of an international fun ride event called The Smart Ride ‘Reunion at Sea’. The event will include a cruise and short rides in each port and sales November 9.
