Surprise resident Bob Higgins, 70, plans to make his eighth consecutive annual 270-mile bicycle excursion from Boston to New York in late June to raise awareness and donations for ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) research.

Higgins lives in The Grand.

The ALS Therapy Development Institute, the world’s foremost drug discovery lab focused solely on finding treatments for ALS, will host the 20th annual  from June 24-26.

Hundreds of cyclists will take part in the three-day journey to raise awareness and funds for cutting-edge ALS research.
The Tri-State Trek began in 2003 with 16 cyclists. Now, in its 20th year, the event includes more than 400 riders who will embark on this strenuous challenge to bring together the ALS community and raise needed funds.

The event has raised more than $9 million to date for research at the ALS Therapy Development Institute, and 2023 could be the year that fundraising passes the $10 million mark.

To help them reach this goal, ALS TDI has received a $100,000 match for all donations made to the trek through the month of May.

Many participants have a direct connection to the disease and are riding for loved ones who are currently battling or have passed away due to ALS — some riders are even living with the disease themselves.

Molly Conners-Noe lost her mother to ALS in 2020 and this will be her second year riding in the Trek and fundraising for ALS research.

Higgins, a full time commercial real estate attorney and an avid amateur cyclist, said in a news release that he welcomes the challenge that the undulating terrain through Massachusetts and Connecticut provides:

“I love the Tri-State Trek and the cause it supports,” he said. “Although I have never had a loved one diagnosed with ALS, I have connected with many victims and caregivers through the Trek. These living saints are truly inspiring. It is a distinct privilege to ride for such dedicated people.”

The Tri-State Trek offers varying course options to support rider abilities and fundraising levels. The ride has three starting point options from Boston; Storrs, Connecticut; and West Haven, Connecticut, enabling riders to do a one-, two- or three-day ride.