The morning began with coffee, donuts and muffins courtesy of Dunkin Donuts, a tradition that has been followed since the ride’s inception. In fact, the ride was dedicated to Mark MacDonald, who along with his family, had provided the beverages and treats for the event - Mark had passed away in 2004.

After introductory remarks by organizers and Ricky Craven, Governor John Baldacci, who was participating in the ride for the first time, said that he was grateful to Craven for holding this event in Greenville, Maine and thanked the racer for his dedication to the four charities he helps as well as his being a great ambassador for the state. Holly Luce sang the National Anthem, her voice floating above the crowd in the clear crystal air.

The ride went off without a hitch and everyone who participated spoke glowingly about the beautiful views along the trail, including a vista of Mt. Katahdin; they were also glad for the Dunkin Donuts coffee and snacks at the mid-way point of the ride.

When everyone got back, they assembled in the Louis Oakes Auditorium at Greenville High School and Craven got up to speak. He thanked the riders and announced with obvious pride that the ride had generated $185,225 which brought the grand total of eight years to over a million dollars. “I cannot thank you enough for all your help in this endeavor,” Craven said. He also thanked Governor Baldacci for making the ride. “He showed some spirit out on the trail,” Craven said with a grin. “ He wasn’t sure he would be able to make it, but he did and he helped bring the spotlight to Greenville, as well.”

Craven continued to thank all those involved in making the event the success it was - he was humbled by all those that helped and he expressed sincere gratitude to everyone there and all those folks who quietly got the job done that stayed in the background. He also spoke about Mark MacDonald , to whom the race was dedicated, and MacDonald’s family who brought the Dunkin Donuts hot beverages and tasty treats once again. Craven spoke a bit about his plans to drive trucks for Rausch and Craftsman. “I’m excited,” he said. “After 23 years of racing, this is an opportunity that I plan to take full advantage of and I’m looking forward to having success this season. It’s a very competitive series,” he added.

Each of the five charities (Give Kids the World, Make-A-Wish Foundation, The Marrow Foundation, Travis Roy Foundation, The Children’s Miracle Network) received checks for $35,000. Craven then presented checks to the Moosehead Riders Snowmobile Club and the groomers for $2500 each; and he presented a check to the Greenville schools for $5,000. Then it was on to the winners of raffles and prizes. Mike Pelletier of Skowhegan won about $600 in the 50/50 raffle and a gentleman from Connecticut (who was not present) won the truck, trailer and Harley Davidson motorcycle. A complete list of winners will be published when the information becomes available.

Craven brought his eight-year old son Everett along for the ride. “He had a great time, but he kept tapping me on the shoulder telling me to go faster,” Craven laughed. “I think it runs in the family.”
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Moosehead Messenger and is used here with permission."