Media contacts: Amy Owen, 404-712-2692 or 404-217-4645, aowen@emory.edu Kathi Baker, 404/727-9371, kobaker@emory.edu Janet Christenbury, 404/727-8599, jmchris@emory.edu |
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A group of philanthropically-minded cycling enthusiasts will ride this weekend from Atlanta to Athens and back to raise money for AIDS vaccine research at the Emory Vaccine Center of Emory University. Dubbed "Action Cycling 200 — Pedaling for a Purpose," the 200-mile trip has been organized by Action Cycling Atlanta, a local group whose members previously have participated in national and international bike rides benefiting AIDS vaccine research throughout the U.S. The group decided to hold its own series of events this year, with all proceeds going to support the Emory Vaccine Center. "This is an exciting and critical time in AIDS vaccine research, and we are honored to have the enthusiastic support of Action Cycling Atlanta and the other individuals participating in this weekend’s ride," said Rafi Ahmed, PhD, Director of the Emory Vaccine Center. "Volunteer contributions from ACA will enable the Center to pursue innovative vaccine strategies and related research that otherwise might be difficult to fund through traditional sources." Riders will depart at 8:00 a.m. Saturday from the Hope Clinic in Decatur, ride to Athens and stay overnight at the University of Georgia before returning to the Hope Clinic Sunday afternoon. The Hope Clinic of Emory University is where clinical trials of vaccines being developed for AIDS and other diseases are conducted. |