Some clouds and wet weather couldn't wash out the spirit of about 160 people taking part in the first Grand Fondo fund-raiser to benefit the Walla Walla St. Mary Regional Cancer Centers Special Needs Fund on October 1, 2005.

Planning for the Grand Fondo began in January to raise money to help pay for cancer patients' needs not covered by insurance. Those needs can include gas to travel to the center for treatment, food and housing while in Walla Walla, and items such as wigs to help patients feel better.

The Grand Fondo consisted of bike rides through Walla Walla vineyards with stops at Pepper Bridge, Northstar and Beresan wineries, a 3.5 mile walk along Mill Creek and horseback riding at Bennington Lake.

The event culminated with lunch at its Walla Walla Community College home base. Kelly and Maureen Walsh were glad to be there grilling up Walla Walla Sweet Onion Sausage to help make the first annual Grand Fondo a success.