They ride, 150 miles they ride. Their cheerful colors flying by, a sea of blue and green. CitiSlickers takes to the streets again as part of the 2007 MS 150 Bike Tour.  The MS Bike Ride is not just for serious athletes—anyone wanting to have fun and fight multiple sclerosis can participate. For beginners, it can be a great way to get in shape and learn from long-time cyclists; veteran riders can take advantage of the fully supported route and make it as big a personal challenge as they like. There's something for everyone on the MS Bike Ride, but most importantly, there's something to be gained for those living with multiple sclerosis.

CitiSlickers is one of the teams that participate in the bike ride. The group, now in its third year, was started by Elizabeth Schopmeyer who had a personal agenda, survival. Four years ago Schopmeyer was diagnosed with MS.

“It was a foggy period for me,” said Schopmeyer. “Muddling around in that fog found me involved with the National MS Society, where I turned for support. I attended a seminar put on by the MS Society and I learned about the 150 Bike Tour and a team called the Chain Gang. I found a place where I wanted to be.”

Schopmeyer found something there that she could sink her teeth and fear into. A place to find hope, possibilities, a way to contribute and give back. It was here that she found something else, strength. The I can beat this mentality.  She attended meetings, she trained and she rode. In the pouring rain she rode. In a 25 mile per hour headwind, she rode. With approximately 1400 people, they rode. With her family supporting her along the way and her brother riding along beside her, they rode from Plano to Ardmore, Oklahoma. As they neared the finish line, her brother pulled to the side and let her cross first, saying “This ones for you!” There was much celebration for her victory.

Schopmeyer's dedication was not lost on the powers that be. She was approached by the National MS Society to start her own team.  After much waffling, she did. What she found was an unwavering level of support of her coworkers at CitiGroup Smith Barney. Her team of riders and volunteers were made up of those she worked with, their families and friends. As Captain she named the team CitiSlickers.

CitiSlickers is now a 501(c) 3 nonprofit that is open to all levels of cyclists, volunteers, and virtual riders seeking FUN for the purpose of Fitness, Friends, and Fundraising. CitiSlickers is a young team focused on education, safety and support through meetings and great members.

"Elizabeth embodies the best of Smith Barney's dedication to community and clients. CitiSlickers, while close in name only to Citi, is even closer to our hearts for the good work it does,” said Joe Icon, Senior Vice President/ Resident Manger, Branch 720.

For additional information on the May 5 & 6 Sam’s 150 Bike Ride, visit www.citislickers.org