2nd annual “Riding for Chipper” grows it’s participation and dollars raised!
On Saturday, August 28, 2021, George and his family hosted a Ride-Run-Walk event to raise money and awareness for cancer research. A humid but beautiful day welcomed 125 participants to The Cleary Company’s headquarters located in northwest Columbus Ohio. Among them were many family members and friends of the Clearys and Greenlees who came together to volunteer, ride bikes, run, walk, eat and celebrate Chip’s spirit.
After the isolation of the past two years, “Riding for Chipper” was a wonderful opportunity to rebuild a sense of community, reconnect with friends and family, get our bodies moving and have fun while supporting innovative cancer research. Participants and guests were also treated to a barbeque picnic. On the menu was smoked pulled pork, baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, chips and cookies.
The BBQ masters responsible for the delicious food were also dear friends of Chip. Sincere gratitude and thanks to Rick Keeler, Ron Scott, Dan Fronk & Mike Kreider. Also lending behind-the-scenes support was Bill Greenlee, Andy Shaffer, & Jim Schrim. They all agreed, “It was an honor & privilege to use Chipper’s smoker & serve those who helped raise money for cancer research. Chipper was there with us in spirit & proud for what it was we achieved.”
Thanks to everyone’s efforts over $3,500 was raised that day! Winners for the Trek E-bike raffle were also announced:
- EBike – Alex S.
- Helmet – Marshall S.
- Jersey – Peg B.
Jeremy Holmes, George’s nephew, said, “For those of us with youngsters, this event was great for the variety of activities so that all ages could feel fully engaged. My nine-year-old and I rode 12.5 miles. He couldn’t stop telling people that it was his personal record. My five-year-old was so proud that he was in charge of the water bottles.”
Kudos to Team Cleary Cyclers
The Team Cleary Cyclers peloton, a riding group George created in 2020 to honor his brother-in-law Chip, was 19 members strong this year. Their combined Pelotonia fundraising goal of $28,350 was nearly tripled to $85,328. Thanks to a generous donor who anonymously gave $25,000 with an additional matching commitment of up to $25,000! The camaraderie of training, riding and fellowship that come from the Pelotonia community is such an uplifting experience for all who participate. Meet our peloton!
- Riders: George Cleary Sr, Betty Cleary, George Cleary Jr, Sara Greenlee, Chase Greenlee, Mary Greenlee, Jeremy Holmes, Walt Betly, Aaron Enfinger, Margot Sheehan, Andi Simpson, John Hamlett, Jen Sommers, Ron Sima, Markus Sachtler, Stephen Sauer, Mark Mason
- Challengers: Susie Wroble
- Volunteers: Jenn McNeil
Who is “Riding for Chipper” named after?
Chip Greenlee was George’s brother-in-law & friend of nearly 30 years. He fought Gioblastoma – an aggressive type of cancer that begins in the brain. Sadly he lost his battle on August 22, 2020. To know Chip was to love the guy. He lived a full, energetic, joyous life, cut short after a valiant battle with brain cancer. It was only fitting that we would gather to honor his memory by celebrating some of his favorite things: Barbeque, Bikes and Family.
For some of us, “Riding for Chipper” was an emotional memorial to a dearly missed husband, father, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend. For others, it was an opportunity to have fun and do a little bit of good on a Saturday. No matter our motivations, we’d like to think Chip was with us that day and would have approved!
Pelotonia: One Goal – End Cancer!
Team Cleary Cyclers continues to raise funds through October 31, 2021 to achieve the ONE GOAL – END CANCER! Donate today to Team Cleary Cyclers OR Visit pelotonia.org for more information and to find out how you can help support Pelotonia’s mission.