Each year on October 24, World Polio Day brings attention to the global effort to eradicate a disease that Rotary International has been fighting for decades. Here in Northern Michigan, the Grayling Rotary Club is putting its own unique spin on that mission with two events that invite our entire community to join the cause.
It starts Thursday, October 22, from 6–9 p.m. with Pints for Polio at Paddle Hard Brewing. Everyone is invited to enjoy great food, craft beer and specialty polio-themed cocktails, with a portion of drink sales donated to Rotary’s PolioPlus Fund. It’s a simple way to gather with friends, have a good time and support a worldwide cause.
Then, on October 23, the challenge begins.
Riders in The Long Day Around will leave Grayling before sunrise for nearly 600 miles and roughly 13 hours on motorcycles. October in Northern Michigan can bring freezing temperatures, rain, wind and sunshine - sometimes all in the same day.
From the saddle, we’ll travel through the beautiful AuSable River Valley, experience incredible views of Lake Huron, cross the Mackinac Bridge, wind through the Tunnel of Trees and follow the shores of Lake Michigan before returning to Grayling.
The scenery is spectacular, but it isn’t why we ride.
Polio is.
For the riders, the cold hands, tired backs and long hours eventually end. The impact of protecting a child from polio can last a lifetime.
Whether you raise a pint, ride with us, make a donation, cheer on the riders or simply spread the word, everyone can play a part.
Learn more or support The Long Day Around HERE
Join Grayling Rotary and help move the world one step closer to ending polio forever.
One Day. One Cause. End Polio.