Pacific Meso Center's 5th Annual "Greatest Escape" Motorcycle Ride Raises Funds and Awareness for Mesothelioma Research
LOS ANGELES, CA, U.S., June 14, 2017 / The Pacific Mesothelioma Center (PMC) at the Pacific Heart, Lung & Blood Institute (PHLBI) held its 5th annual “Greatest Escape” Motorcycle Ride on Sunday, June 4. The ride, inspired by The Great Escape movie and starring actor, motorcycle enthusiast, and mesothelioma sufferer, Steve McQueen, is a unique event which honors those who have lost the fight against mesothelioma and raises money for research.
This year’s event enjoyed its biggest turnout ever! Over 200 riders participated and $78,657 was raised for mesothelioma research. Worthington & Caron, PC is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Greatest Escape for the 5th year in a row.
For the first time, the ride kicked off from two locations-Top Rocker Harley-Davidson in Canoga Park and Antelope Valley Harley-Davidson in Lancaster. Officers from All Cities Transportation Company escorted riders out of Los Angeles with zero stops—a true luxury for riders accustomed to LA gridlock. From there, all roads led to the “twisties” and breathtaking vistas of Angeles Crest Highway on the way to historic Newcomb’s Ranch.
Riders were joined by a cast of celebrity riders, including actor/model, Fabio, Shades of Blue actor Antonio Jaramillo, American Crime actor Clayton Cardenas, and CHiPS star Larry Wilcox. Fabio, who returned for the third year as Celebrity Grand Marshal, summed up the experience, “I had a great time, it’s such a beautiful ride, one of the most beautiful rides in California.”
Things heated up at Newcomb’s Ranch where riders were joined by supporters who drove up to be part of the event and make a difference for mesothelioma sufferers. “The Sidemen” kept the event rocking with a lively mix of classic rock and blues. Fred and his crew at Newcomb’s rolled out an amazing taco lunch which many enjoyed with cold craft beer donated by Bend, Oregon brewery, Worthy Brewing. An array of vendors were there with a unique mix of items ranging from motorcycle gear to Italian ices. Also on display were over 50 raffle items including gourmet dinners, a vacation getaway to the Glen Tavern Inn, motorcycle gear, and so much more generously donated by sponsors.
Fabio with John Caron and Clare Cameron and Victoria Adams of PMC
With the addition of the second starting location, riders from all over Southern California were able to participate in this worthwhile event. “Motorcycle riders love the freedom of being on their bikes and going to out of the way places like Newcomb’s Ranch,” said John Caron of presenting sponsor, Worthington & Caron Asbestos Law Firm, “so it’s no surprise that more and more riders show up every year to help those who have lost their freedom to mesothelioma.”
PMC thanks everyone who participated in this year’s Greatest Escape, along with all the volunteers and sponsors who make this unique event possible.
