U.S. Naval Academy Class of ’75 Completes 1,200-Mile Charity Ride

UPDATE: A group of over 20 U.S. Naval Academy graduates from the Class of 1975 has just completed a remarkable 1,200-mile charity bike ride, crossing the finish line at 2:40 p.m.Gulf to Goat Charity Ride, marked a significant celebration of their 50th reunion.

The ride, which began on October 1, 2023, in Apalachicola, Florida, lasted for 22 days and aimed to raise funds for multiple nonprofits, including the Emily Whitehead Foundation and the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. Participants have successfully raised over $160,000 to support these causes, demonstrating an inspiring commitment to charitable giving.

“We wanted to unite our classmates, family, and friends in a quest for fitness, camaraderie, and charitable giving,” shared Gary Jones, a retired rear admiral and vice president for the Naval Academy Class of 1975. The ride not only showcased their dedication to physical fitness but also highlighted the importance of community support.

Among the notable participants was Mike Donnelly, a 2000 graduate, who completed the ride alongside his father, retired Vice Adm. Jay Donnelly, raising awareness for the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.

As the cyclists celebrated their achievement, a gathering was scheduled for Wednesday evening at the Captain’s Daughter Restaurant at the Westin Annapolis, where stories from the journey will be shared. Additionally, a fireside chat is set for Thursday at 11 a.m. at O’Brien’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Tavern, focusing on the mission behind their efforts and the impact of the Emily Whitehead Foundation.

The foundation, established by the parents of Emily Whitehead, the first child to undergo life-saving CAR T-cell therapy, advocates for broader access to advanced cancer treatments.

As this inspiring journey concludes, the Class of 1975 has not only celebrated their milestone but has also made a significant impact on the lives of many through their charitable efforts. For more updates, follow the latest developments in their ongoing initiatives.