Once again, The Ride Across Minnesota (TRAM) bike ride will weave its way through Austin.

Every year, hundreds join the event that meanders nearly 300 miles and stops at various cities on its way.

The goal: to raise money and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis, a debilitating disease that affects nearly 400,000 people in the U.S, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

This year’s ride wheels into Austin July 26. After starting in Rochester, it streaks its route through one city each day, hitting Owatonna, Austin, Lanesboro and Winona before returning to Rochester.

It’s been nine years since TRAM passed through Austin, which is why Austin native Mary Nelson is so excited. She’s ridden in TRAM every year since 1990, making 2011 her 22nd consecutive time. She’s been using the same Cannondale bike she bought from Rydjor Bike Shop of Austin for 20 years.

Nelson used to ride in the MS 150 from Duluth to the Twin Cities. When she heard about TRAM from a coworker, she became curious. But she wasn’t sure if she could complete such a long trek.

Inspiration led Nelson to give it a shot because that former coworker, Cheryl Corey, had a relative struggling with MS. Furthermore, Nelson knew people with MS and had seen its effects.

Now, Nelson represents Hormel in the ride and calls herself the Spam TRAMmer. She rides with a fake pig on her bike and banners letting everyone know who she is.

Nelson said she is very grateful for her job because it’s allowed her to donate more than $500 to the cause every year. This year, she plans on donating more than $1,000.

Many aspects of the event draw Nelson back each year.

“They take excellent care of you,” she said.

Nelson referred to the efforts of the MS Society for organizing the event. When the riders reach each city, trucks wait for them with all of their food, tents, luggage and anything else they need.

Also, hundreds of volunteers sign up every year as well. They include truck drivers, ride marshals, route markers, radio operators, escorts and many others.

Anna Kucera, senior marketing manager with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota chapter, said the event needs more volunteers. She hopes this year’s event is bigger than last year’s, which had more than 850 riders and 650 volunteers.

If riders want, they can also stay in any of the designated hotels along the way.

Nelson encourages people to attend the event — even if they don’t ride. It’s a good way to meet some compassionate people and an opportunity to show others the hospitality of Austin.

For more info on the event, visit bikemnm.nationalmssociety.org or call 800-582-5296.