Charlotte, NC—On this 20th Anniversary of the 24 Foundation’s 24 Hours of Booty (24 HOB), Team A M King was back on the loop! Riders and walkers again joined together as if the strange, virtual-only event last year never happened. Many were still wearing masks, but that didn’t hide smiling eyes, moving legs and passion for contributing to cancer survivorship and patient programs.
It was a smoking hot sunny evening as the event got underway. Spencer Lueders, 24 HOB founder, explained his inspiration for starting the event in 2002, as more than 600 participants from 22 states, Canada and Dubai lined up on Queens Road West. There were also more than 200 virtual participants. Over the years, the event gained traction and according to the organization’s website, “24 Foundation’s signature annual events now serve as celebrations of survivorship, the power of peer-to-peer fundraising, and the spirit that our participants live with every day. Event participants commit to cycling or walking as much or as little as they’d like within 24 hours. It isn’t a race. Miles don’t matter. It’s an experience, celebration, and triumph.”
“There was pent up demand to get out there this year and do something good,” says Lueders. “While participation was only 60 percent of what we normally see on the loop, incredibly we raised more than $1.25 million, breaking last year’s total by more than $400,000. This is a remarkable testament to the folks who participated this year.”
“I had a great experience participating in 24 Hours of Booty for the first time, says Carson Willis, Project Engineer.” It was awesome to get to know my coworkers better during the ride, as well as spending time with them before and after the event. I got to meet people from other A M King offices, which was really cool. I also loved seeing how the Charlotte community came together for a great cause.”
“I was so excited to be back in person for 24 Hours of Booty this year,” says Sarah Smith, A M King Marketing Coordinator and Team Captain for the company. “The feeling of being at the starting line with hundreds of other riders and walkers around you was electric. I am so grateful that A M King makes it possible for so many of us to ride/walk and support the cancer community of Charlotte.”
Smith performed many integral tasks in the weeks leading up to this year’s event. For example, she gathered RSVPs; distributed A M King jerseys; organized bib and bib numbers; coordinated bikes and helmets; ordered directional signs, banners and party supplies, and most importantly, registered all employee participants. She also arranged videos from two A M King riders to promote the event. Architect John Koury talked about what makes 24 HOB special and Communications Manager Resa Goldberg delivered a more personal message about her father, a 20-year cancer survivor.
The Hendrick Porsche Honor Pace Car concept that was developed for last year’s “Unlooped” 24 HOB not only escorted riders for the traditional survivor’s lap around the Myers Park loop, but also made stops that included A M King’s team headquarters. For a minimum $24 donation, Hendrick Porsche offered the opportunity to honor or remember loved ones who have battled cancer by painting their names on the white Porsche Taycan. ”Fastest car I’ve ever driven,” explains Lueders. “Full electric with Porsche power and panache. Incredible.” All proceeds went directly to 24 Foundation. Money raised supports cancer beneficiaries such as Atrium Health’s Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health’s Levine Children’s Hospital, Claire’s Army and Go Jen Go. Donations are still being accepted and can be made at www.24foundation.org.
“The 24 Foundation, which runs this extraordinary event, is one of our most important philanthropic partners because their focus is patient welfare and helping patients and families negotiate this complex journey,” explains Dr. Derek Raghavan, President, Levine Cancer Institute. “The event itself advocates for good health, generosity and good fellowship and reflects so well on Charlotte and its culture.”
“A M King brings an energy and excitement to 24 Hours of Booty like few others,” says Lueders. “Their presence is uplifting. It’s quite a sight to see them coming with their bright yellow shirts and cheering for all the riders! The team’s commitment to our mission is heartfelt and it shows. Thank you!”
