Going the Distance for a Cause: Grayling Rotary's Long Day Around Raises More Than $11,300!

Hundreds of miles, a dedicated group of motorcyclists, and a community that knows how to show up for a good cause.

The Grayling Rotary Club's 2026 Long Day Around fundraiser is making a remarkable impact in the global fight to end polio! This annual motorcycle adventure brings riders together for an ambitious journey around Northern Michigan's Lower Peninsula, all in support of Rotary International's ongoing efforts to eradicate polio worldwide.

And this year's fundraising results are worth celebrating.

As of October 27, the Long Day Around has raised 11,312.99, with 11 days still remaining in the campaign!

A Long Ride with a Big Purpose

The Long Day Around is no ordinary motorcycle trip. Riders take on a challenge of approximately 600 miles around the northern Lower Peninsula in a single day, combining a love for Michigan's scenic roadways with a commitment to making a difference.

The ride serves as both a fundraising opportunity and a way to raise awareness of Rotary International's PolioPlus program, which supports vaccination efforts and the global mission to eliminate polio.

While the ride itself is a significant undertaking, the impact goes much further than the miles traveled.

Grayling Businesses and Community Members Rally Behind the Cause

The 2026 festivities included a Pints for Polio fundraising kickoff on Thursday, October 22, at Paddle Hard Brewing in downtown Grayling.

Community members were invited to meet the riders, enjoy an evening together, and support the cause. Paddle Hard Brewing contributed a portion of beer sales to the fundraiser, while Q100 Michigan helped bring attention to the effort through promotions and giveaways.

It's another example of the difference that can be made when local businesses, service organizations, and residents come together.

More Than 11,000 Raised — and There's Still Time to Give!

With 11 days remaining in the fundraising campaign as of October 27, Grayling Rotary has already raised more than 11,000 toward the fight against polio.

Even better, Rotary's partnership with the Gates Foundation provides a two-to-one match for eligible PolioPlus contributions, helping donations stretch even further.

For a fundraiser rooted in a small Northern Michigan community, that's an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference on a global scale.

Help Grayling Rotary Finish Strong

The Grayling Regional Chamber of Commerce congratulates the Grayling Rotary Club, the Long Day Around riders, and the many local businesses, sponsors, and community members who have contributed to this year's success.

Their efforts are a reminder that some of the biggest impacts begin with local people who are willing to go the extra mile — or, in this case, several hundred of them!

There are still 11 days left to support this incredible effort. Help the riders finish strong by making a contribution to the official campaign.

Donate to the 2026 Long Day Around Fundraiser