MOFO ride gears up to break fundraising records for National Ability Center

Athletes take to the trails in the annual MOFO fundraiser for the NAC. Photo: National Ability Center / MOFO

PARK CITY, Utah — Last year, the MOFO fundraiser for the National Accessibility Center brought in half a million dollars. The year’s event on Saturday is shaping up to beat that record handily.

The annual mountain biking fundraiser was founded by Craig White, who started the ride after moving to Park City. His work as a volunteer at the National Ability Center and his hobby of finding challenging mountain biking routes easily merged in this annual fundraiser that takes riders on an arduous, but visually stunning, autumnal journey through Park City trails.

“It’s a little piece of heaven here in Park City for those of us who enjoy outdoor activities and sports and challenges,” said White. “There’s nothing that we can relate to and appreciate more than to see these adaptive athletes take on the challenges that they have.”

The first MOFO ride kicked off 16 years ago and raised $50,000. Each year they’ve set and exceeded their goal to increase the amount raised, and they are setting their sights on a $1 million year in 2029.

Funds raised go to the National Ability Center, which provides adaptive equipment and training for athletes of all abilities. “We hope it goes on forever — that we can be very important to the NAC, as far as being a funding source that allows them to continue on this fantastic mission,” said White.

Each rider pays a $1000 donation to participate in the event, which is matched if they make it to the top of Platsen Hill and tripled if they climb to the top of Puke Hill. MOFO sponsors also contribute an extra $50,000 if there are no injuries during the ride.

It’s not too late to register or come to cheer and join the fun. Learn more and register.

The MOFO Ride: Saturday, September 27

Ride Schedule (subject to change):

7 a.m.: Arrive at NAC campus for breakfast snacks, coffee, and check-in

8 a.m.: Riders pedal out to Pladsen Hill in Round Valley to cheer each other on as they attempt to conquer gravity

11 a.m.: Riders meet at McGrath Mountain Center for sandwiches and to begin the Ride Options below

4:30 p.m.: After-party at McGrath Mountain Center

Ride Options: ($1,000 entry fee for Full, Mini and Round Valley MOFO)

• Full MOFO – The original and full MOFO route! Approx. 30 miles | 4,500 feet

• Mini MOFO – Ride the Crescent Lift and climb to the top! Approx. 18 miles | 1,500 feet (Bike lift ticket included in registration price)

• Round Valley MOFO (a shorter mileage, less elevation gain ride)

• Adaptive MOFO – Ride the Crescent Lift and climb to the top of Puke Hill!* 14 Miles | 800 feet (Adaptive Athletes only!) Adaptive Athletes: To register, please contact Brian Essig at briane@discovernac.org

• After the ride, a Celebration Dinner will be held at the McGrath Mountain Center starting at 4:30 and ending at 7:30 p.m. All riders are welcome! Address: 1431 Lowell Ave