Thousands Run, Bike and Walk to Hyannis for Best Buddies

Tom Brady Finishes the Best Buddies Race

HYANNIS PORT – Over 2,500 people, including New England Patriots players, television personalities and dedicated family members, flocked to Hyannis Port Saturday for the 17^th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port.

The fundraiser began Friday night in Boston with the annual Tom Brady Football Challenge at Harvard Stadium.

Then, participants took part in a 100-mile bike ride from Boston to Hyannis Port. Other challenges included the 50-mile course, beginning in Carver, and the 20-mile course, starting in Sandwich.

All of the funds raised support Best Buddies International’s mission to provide friendship, employment, and leadership opportunities for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Tom Brady, Danny Amendola, Tedy Bruschi, Julian Edelman, Christian Fauria, Rob Gronkowski, Dion Lewis, Dan Koppen, Rob Ninkovich, James White and Scott Zolak from the Patriots all took part in the challenge.

Actress and Journalist Maria Menounos rode the 20-mile course, and said she got lost partway through while distracted by the scenery.

“I saw the ocean and got excited!” she said.

Another rider, who wished not to be named, said she rides in honor of her son with Down Syndrome.

“It’s a great organization, we got involved a couple of years ago and it’s become an annual tradition for us,” she said.

The Challenge wrapped up with a clambake and a concert by the Beach Boys.