Third Annual "The Greatest Escape" Motorcycle Ride Raises $88k for Mesothelioma Research

    LOS ANGELES, CA, August 05, 2015 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The Pacific Mesothelioma Center (PMC) at the Pacific Heart, Lung & Blood Institute (PHLBI) hosted the third annual The Greatest Escape Motorcycle Ride, presented by Worthington and Caron, P.C., on Sunday, July 26. The event raised $88,281 for mesothelioma research, an asbestos-related cancer with few treatment options. The motorcycle ride originated as a tribute to The Great Escape movie, starring actor Steve McQueen, who died of mesothelioma. Since its inception, hundreds have gathered each year to honor those who have lost the fight against mesothelioma and to raise money for research.

The air was cool as the event kicked-off at the Glendale Harley-Davidson. More than 200 riders and passengers came out to enjoy a scenic ride up to Newcomb's Ranch in La Canada, CA. The group was escorted by All Cities Transportation Company's Escort Officers who led a safe and steady ride--with zero stops for traffic lights-- through the Angeles Crest Highway with breathtaking views of Los Angeles. Riders were joined by Celebrity Grand Marshal, actor and model Fabio Lanzoni, actress Kristy Swanson, Olympic Bronze Medalist Lloyd Eisler, comedian Alonzo Bodden and actor/professor Roger McGrath, who knew Steve McQueen personally.

Fabio made the perfect Grand Marshal and stopped to take pictures and converse with anyone who asked. "It was a lot of fun, great people and a worthy cause. Looking forward to seeing you again next year!" he said.

Things heated up at Newcomb's Ranch where riders were met by other supporters who don't ride bikes, but still wanted to have fun and make a difference in mesothelioma research. Everyone enjoyed live entertainment by Cherry & the Bulldogs, a delicious BBQ lunch, craft beer by Worthy Brewing Co. (who made their CA debut at the event) and an array of vendors who offered ice cream, motorcycle gear, legal advice and back massages.

Aside from supporting mesothelioma research, many riders came out to win. The opportunity drawing featured coveted prizes such as a Los Angeles Dodgers fan basket with signed memorabilia and tickets, Pro Italia motorcycle gear, a getaway to Napa, CA, dinner gift certificates, hotel stays, L.A. Racing VIP experience, concert tickets and much more.

Participants came from all over California to enjoy the ride, with some traveling from as far as Texas. "Arriving from Texas to ride with folks having the same mind-set made me smile all day long. We need to keep up the fight and keep funding research!" said Mike Bittner of Worthington and Caron, P.C.

Photos by Terry Bert.

About Us: Established in 2002, PHLBI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit institution. The PMC, a division of the PHLBI, is focused on the treatment and prevention of malignant pleural mesothelioma. The PMC serves a growing number of mesothelioma victims by supporting the nation's first-of-its-kind research lab which provides laboratory-to-the bedside research that improves mesothelioma victims' lives and longevity. www.PacificMesotheliomaCenter.org

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