A day of riding “topless” through the Allegheny National Forest by close to 100 Jeeps raised close to $2,200 for Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, N.Y.
Sally Nosal, of the Enchanted Mountain Jeep Wrangler Club and organizer of the first Extreme Terrain Go Topless benefit Saturday in Bradford, said more than 220 people riding in approximately 90 Jeeps participated in the event and raised a total of more than $3,020.
“We dodged just a few rain drops, but other than that the day was perfect,” Nosal said of the ride through the national forest that was accompanied by temperatures in the 60s and 70s. “Everyone behaved and most of all we didn’t leave anyone behind. We raised over $3,020 altogether and minus the prizes and cost contribution, the remaining donations will go to Roswell. “That amount is just shy of $2,200 … these funds will go to patient care and cancer research.”
Nosal, a resident of Allegany, N.Y., has wanted to help Roswell as her mother is a breast cancer survivor.
The event, which was a local spin-off of a national Extreme Terrain Go Topless Day, was sponsored by the Jeep parts and accessories company. The fundraiser encourages Jeep drivers and passengers to raise funds for charities from the rides and dice runs. The term topless used for the event comes from the fact that many Jeeps can be driven with their hard tops, or can “go topless.”
“We really appreciate everyone taking time out of their busy schedule to join us for the Enchanted Mountain Jeep Wrangler Club’s Go Topless Day,” Nosal added. “We were also joined by 716 Jeepers out of the Buffalo/Cheektowaga (N.Y.) area and I want to thank them, as well.”
Nosal also praised the Bradford American Legion, the Sons of Legion, Bradford City Police Department and the musical acts, Laura Friday and Noah, Dan Roche, and Dave Bennett for their help with the event.
Nosal said several riders who commented on the event on Facebook included the following individuals.
“We had so much fun today,” wrote participant Darla Darling. “It was such an awesome and well organized event, Thank you. Can’t wait to come to more.”
In her comments, Jennifer Bennett Pellerito, remarked, “When are we getting together next, I’m ready.”
In addition, RJ Hupps wrote, “You have a awesome club can’t wait to wheel with ya again.”
