Nothing lasts forever, and a long-standing Grand Junction biking event has met its end.

For 22 years, the Rose Hill Rally has raised funds for the St. Mary's Hospital Rose Hill Hospitality House. The house provides free accommodations for out of town patients of St. Mary's and their families.

The Rose Hill Rally has been a fixture on the first Sunday of May for more than two decades. Hundreds of bike riders would gather to ride a 50k or 100k in the non-competitive ride enjoying support along the way, breakfast, lunch, prizes, and a ton of camaraderie.

This week, the St. Mary's Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees made the announcement that it was the end of the line for the Rose Hill Rally.

After careful consideration, it is with a heavy heart that we write to share that the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation will no longer be holding the Rose Hill Rally.

Originally started over 22 years ago, it has been our honor and privilege to partner with our dedicated committee of volunteers on this wonderful event. The funds raised through the Rose Hill Rally have supported the Rose Hill Hospitality House, and the Foundation remains committed to supporting this vital service by focusing our efforts in other ways that can grow and maximize philanthropic support for St. Mary’s and the Rose Hill Hospitality House.

While the Rose Hill Rally will no longer be held, an informal ride is still being planned for May 5 at Canyon View Park. This will not be a fundraiser, and there won't be the typical rest stops and support along the way, but all riders are invited to participate.

Ed Lipton has coordinated this event year after year, working tirelessly and endlessly to pull off a highly successful and very well-organized event. I've had the privilege of working with Ed for 15 years promoting and being on site at this event. A big thanks should go out to Ed and all of the many volunteers who have been involved year after year.

Discounted Rose Hilly Rally bike jerseys are available from the foundation office for $40 at 970-298-1954. If you have questions about the informal ride on May 5, you can contact Ed Lipton at  970-242-5940.

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