Sumner bicyclist rode for daughter's cystic fibrosis

Rich Plunkett's 14-year-old daughter Alison was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of 1 and he isn't taking it sitting down.

Technically, he is taking it sitting down, but only while riding his bicycle on a 65-mile ride.

The Seattle chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation launched the Eurand CF Cycle for Life tour series on Sunday. Seattle is one of 17 cities participating in the event, which occurred for the first time this year, featuring thousands of cyclists joining to raise money to help discover a cure for cystic fibrosis. Eurand Pharmaceuticals is teaming with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to help raise funds for cystic fibrosis research through the series.

Cystic fibrosis is a disease usually developed in early childhood which, among other effects, can lead to respiratory complications and infection.

Plunkett is chairman of the event and said he did "anything and everything necessary to get the folks out there."

Cyclists could choose between riding a 20-mile route or a 65-mile route. The route started at the Columbia Winery in Woodinville and continued around the west side of Lake Washington, around Mercer Island and concluded at the winery.

While he and others rode, his wife and daughter manned one of the rest stops, making the event a family affair. The Plunketts participate in other cystic fibrosis events including their own annual Alison's Angels golf tournament in Sumner.

A post-ride party followed at the Columbia Winery with food and Washington wine.

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