Nancy Davis and Flo Rida on stage at the 30th Anniversary Race to Erase MS Gala

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 02: (L-R) Race to Erase MS Founder Nancy Davis and Flo Rida speak onstage during the 30th Annual Race To Erase MS Gala at Fairmont Century Plaza on June 02, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Race to Erase MS)

On Friday, June 2, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) advocate and Center Without Walls founder Nancy Davis welcomed guests to the Fairmont Century Plaza for the 30th Annual Race to Erase MS Gala. The event raised over $2 million to benefit the Race to Erase MS and its Center Without Walls program, a collaboration of top MS research centers working together as a team on ground-breaking research with the goal of treating and, ultimately, finding a cure for MS. The star-studded event featured performances by Flo Rida and Siedah Garrett. Additionally, Cinq à Sept kicked off the evening with a fashion show, featuring the Fall 2023 Fashion Collection.

Guests at this year’s landmark event included Race to Erase MS Founder Nancy Davis, performers Flo Rida and Siedah Garrett, and special guests Alan Bersten, Anna Trebunskaya, Arielle Raycene, Ashlee Simpson Ross, Bershan Shaw, Camerone Parker, Caroline D’Amore, Cheryl Burke, Christine Devine, Cindy Cowan, Dave Winfield, David Faustino, Dawnmarie Deshaies, Dedee Pfeiffer, Denise Richards, Devon DeJardin, Diana Madison, Doni Nahmias, Ed Begley Jr., Emil Gampe, Faly Rakotohavana, Foodgod, Francesca Capaldi, Heidi D’Amelio, James Tupper, Jane Siskin, Jason Wahler, Jay Huguley, Joely Fisher, Joel Michaely, Joey Zauzig, Jovana Benoit, Katie Cassidy, Kola Bokinni, Lawrence Zarian, Lisa Stanley, Marg Helgenberger, Matt Cooper, Mickey Popat, Scheana Shay, Torrei Hart, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Vicky Popat and more!

Nancy Davis wore a Cinq à Sept gown for the event, and special guests such as Alessandra Ambrosio, AnnaLynne McCord, Kathy Hilton, Siedah Garrett, Olivia Sanabia, Rocky Barnes, Gigi Gorgeous, Elisabeth Röhm, Mei Kwok, Crystal Kung Minkoff, Cristina Ferrare, Shaun Robinson, Hayden Carson Begley and more were dressed in Cinq à Sept as well.

Introduced by her daughter Isabella Rickel, Race to Erase MS founder Nancy Davis took the stage, thanking guests for being in the room to celebrate the 30th Annual Gala. Regarding the start of her journey to found Race to Erase thirty years ago, Davis shared, “Instead of singing a song of defeat, I became inspired by a song my parents played constantly in our home, The Impossible Journey, and that became my quest – to beat the unbeatable foe, to reach the unreachable star, no matter how hopeless and no matter how far. Without the option of defeat, I laid down the foundation for what became the Race to Erase MS.”

Davis also took a moment on the stage to celebrate thirty Race to Erase MS supporters who have been instrumental to the cause over the last thirty years. She said, “Together we have done what others thought was impossible. There are now twenty-five drugs on the market to help stop the progression of MS.”

Peter Facinelli introduced the luxurious live auction, which featured one-of-a-kind opportunities including a unique VIP chef’s experience from Steak 48; a four-night stay at the Little Nell & Aspen Skiing Company in Aspen including two round-trip tickets from Aero; a four-night stay at the fabulous Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea including two round-trip, First-Class tickets from Alaska Airlines; a two-day Paris culinary extravaganza with Daytime Emmy-nominated Chef Edward Delling-Williams; a cruise to go to Catalina Island on an 80-foot yacht for up to twelve guests; a six-night exclusive retreat for eight guests at private Scottish residence, Tigh an Tuir, and more. The big item of the night was the Aston Martin DBX707 AMR23 Edition, signed by Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso, along with invitations to a Formula One race.

The event also showcased a video montage celebrating the last thirty years of the Race to Erase MS Gala. The video highlighted past performers including Earth, Wind & Fire, Elton John, Steven Tyler, Stevie Wonder and many more, in addition to statements from doctors, and patient stories.

 Evan Ross took the stage to introduce musical guest Flo Rida who brought down the house playing hits “Good Feeling,” “Right Round,” “Low,” “My House,” and more.

As in years past, an uplifting rendition of “Lean On Me” was performed as the finale of the evening by Greg Phillinganes, Siedah Garrett, and Thelma Houston. They invited audience members to join them onstage to close out the special evening.

Nile Rodgers & Chic perform at the 29th Race to Erase MS gala

On Friday, May 20, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) advocate and Center Without Walls founder, Nancy Davis, welcomed guests to the Fairmont Century Plaza for the 29th Annual Race to Erase MS Gala. The event raised over $1.4 million to benefit the Race to Erase MS and its Center Without Walls program, a collaboration of top MS research centers working together as a team on ground-breaking research with the goal of treating and, ultimately, finding a cure for MS. The star-studded event featured a performance by Grammy Award-winning composer, producer, and guitarist Nile Rodgers and Chic. Additionally, Tommy Hilfiger presented its latest adaptive collection in a fashion show at this year’s gala. First launched in 2017, the adaptive line features innovatively designed clothing that makes dressing easier for adults and children with disabilities.

Guests at this year’s event included Race to Erase MS Founder Nancy Davis, performer Nile Rodgers & Chic, Fashion Designer Tommy Hilfiger, and special guests Alan Bersten, Anna Trebunskaya, Angela Lewis, Ashley Alexiss, Austin Aaron, Brandee Evans, Candace Nicholas-Lippman, Christine Devine, Crystal Kung Minkoff, Cybill Shepherd, Daniella Karagach, Darone Okolie, David Faustino, Dawnmarie Deshaies, Deacon Phillippe, Dorothy Lucey, Ed Begley Jr., Ellie Zeiler, Emma Kenney, Emma Norton, Emmett Hunter, Frances Fisher, Francesca Capaldi, Garcelle Beauvais, Gigi Gorgeous, Greg Germann, Greg Phillinganes, Hero Hunter, Inde Navarrette, Isaac Boots, J. Mallory McCree, James Tupper, Jason Lewis, Jay Huguley, Jen Kober, Joely Fisher, Joey Zauzig, Kathy Hilton, Katie Cassidy, Lauren Ash, Madison Grace, Michael Campion, Pasha Pashkov, Samantha Hanratty, Shaun Robinson, Sheree Zampino, Siedah Garrett, Taryn Manning, Tim Realbuto, Vanna White, Victoria Justice, Vivica Fox, and more!

The evening began with a Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive fashion show with models of all abilities on the runway highlighting TOMMY HILFIGER’s innovative line of clothing. The collection features discreet modifications – such as one-handed zippers for easy closure, seams that open to accommodate prosthetics and seated wear designed for wheelchair riders. Each piece is designed to make dressing easier, without sacrificing style or quality. Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive‘s mission is to make fashion accessible to everyone so they feel empowered to express themselves through the clothing they wear.

Race to Erase MS founder Nancy Davis took the stage next, thanking guests for being in the room to celebrate the 29th Annual Gala. She shared her excitement to be back at the Fairmont Century Plaza and spoke of the incredible accomplishments of the organization over the years, including raising over $50 million for Race to Erase MS and its Center Without Walls program. Nancy also thanked her family for the love and support they have provided her to achieve this important goal.

Kathy Hilton, Garcelle Beauvais, and Crystal Minkoff introduced the luxurious live auction, which featured one-of-a-kind opportunities including lunch with The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills themselves – including Kathy Hilton, Sutton Stracke, Dorit Kemsley and Garcelle Beauvais, a Four-night Stay at the Fabulous Four Seasons Resort Maui, a Four-night stay at the Little Nell & Aspen Skiing Company in Aspen, a recording session with Nile Rodgers, a one-of-a-kind NFT, and more. The big item of the night was a Lars Beusker limited-edition panther photograph, which sold to the highest bidder for $39,000.

Vivica A. Fox, Taryn Manning, and Tim Realbuto took to the stage to introduce a video about Race to Erase MS and the research done at the Center Without Walls. Singer-songwriter Siedah Garrett then introduced the musical guest for the evening, legendary performer Nile Rodgers & Chic, who brought down the house playing hits “Dance, Dance, Dance,” “We Are Family,” “Le Freak,” and many more.

In what has become a Race to Erase MS tradition over the past 29 years, an uplifting rendition of “Lean On Me” was performed as the finale of the evening, led by Siedah Garrett, with help from Greg Phillinganes. They invited audience members to join them onstage, alongside Nancy Davis and Nile Rodgers, to close out the special evening.

The Race to Erase MS is honored by the gracious design contribution for the event by Shepard Fairey and Studio Number One. The original artwork was featured in all gala communications; exclusive event merchandise featuring the design is available online at shop.erasems.org. The gala also featured www.159.gallery Los Angeles, which exclusively represents world-renowned German wildlife photographer Lars Beusker, and is represented by agent Sabine Niederberghaus. They donated the sold-out image “Panther” with edition number 1/10 from Lars Beusker’s private collection in XXL size of 94’5″ (2,40 meters) for auction. The tote for the event gift bag was also sponsored by the gallery and designed by the artist himself showing one of his extraordinary images. In addition, during the gala event an exclusive showcase of 10 of his artworks were on display, with 30% of sales that evening supporting Race to Erase MS.

On Friday, June 4, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) advocate and Center Without Walls founder Nancy Davis welcomed guests to The Rose Bowl for the 28th Annual Race to Erase MS Gala: Drive-In to Erase MS. For the second year in a row, this legendary event was held at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium for a night of celebration and fundraising under the stars. The evening raised over $1.4 Million to benefit the Race to Race to Erase MS and its Center Without Walls program, a collaboration of top MS research centers working together as a team on ground-breaking research with the goal of treating and, ultimately, finding a cure for MS.

The event opened with a Spring/Summer 2021 runway show from Hollywood-favorite fashion brand alice + olivia by Stacey Bendet. Lance Bass welcomed everyone to the event, and brought Isabella and Mariella Rickel to the stage, who gave a heartfelt introduction to their mother, Nancy Davis. Nancy thanked everyone for their ongoing commitment to the cause, and expressed her excitement over Earth, Wind & Fire’s upcoming performance. She was followed on stage by Red Songbird Foundation founder Hilary Roberts, who last year announced the first-ever Jason Davis Scholarship in honor of Nancy’s son Jason, who passed away in early 2020.

After being introduced by Kathy Hilton, Dorit Kemsley, Kyle Richards, and Sutton Stracke, Letitia Frye hosted the energetic live auction which featured a wide variety of one-of-a-kind items including a Hublot Watch designed in collaboration with Shepard Fairey, a virtual reading from Tyler Henry, 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 63 AMG®, and The Little Nell.

Longtime Race to Erase MS supporter Mario Lopez brought son Nico up to the stage to help him welcome the headliners of the evening.  The legendary Earth, Wind & Fire had everyone dancing and singing along as they absolutely brought the house down with a full set, including their classic hits “September,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Shining Star,” “Let’s Groove,” “Fantasy,” and more!

As is Race to Erase MS tradition, the evening concluded with a group performance of “Lean on Me,” led by Earth, Wind & Fire, Siedah Garrett, David Osmond, Greg Phillinganes, and others.

Additional special guests at the event included: Maximilian Acevedo, Aubrey Anderson-Emmons, Tyra Banks, Stacey Bendet, Alan Bernsten, Michael Campion, Francesca Capaldi, Christine Devine & Sean McNabb, Courtney Dietz, David Faustino, Alberto Frezza, Kimmy Gatewood, Madison Grace, Harlow Jane, Thomas Jane, Victoria Justice, Keltie Knight, Natalie Alyn Lind, Loni Love, Dorothy Lucey, Vanessa Marano, AnnaLynne McCord, Sterling Monett, Keo Motsepe, Camerone Parker, Jasper Polish, Marta Pozzan, Shaun Robinson, Olivia Sanabia, Gleb Savchenko, Cassie Scerbo, Jodie Sweetin, Dave & Tonya Winfield, and more!

On Friday, September 4, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) advocate and Center Without Walls founder, Nancy Davis welcomed guests to The Rose Bowl for a very special reimagined live drive-in Race to Erase MS Gala.  For the first time ever, in light of the current pandemic, guests were invited to “Drive-In” for an evening of socially distanced music, celebration, and raising funds and awareness for this life-altering disease.  The event raised over $1.4 Million to benefit the Race to Erase MS and its Center Without Walls program, a collaboration of top MS research centers working together as a team on ground-breaking research with the goal of treating and, ultimately, finding a cure for MS.  The event honored Davis’s son Jason, who passed away earlier this year, with a very special posthumous “Medal of Hope.”

The event opened with an exclusive virtual look at the Fall 2020 Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Collection – a line of clothing with innovative design twists that makes dressing easier for people with disabilities.  Anne Heche gave a heartfelt introduction to Nancy Davis, who welcomed everyone before delivering a touching tribute to her son, Jason Davis, who passed away several months ago.  The mother-son team founded the non-profit Cure Addiction Now (CAN) before Jason’s passing, in the hopes of revolutionizing the way that substance use disorders are viewed and treated.  Nancy recognized her son with the “Medal of Hope,” which was accepted by his sisters Mariella and Isabella, who spoke about Jason’s incredible heart, zest for life, and tireless support for everyone around him.  In honor of Jason and the Davis family’s ongoing commitment to this work, Red Songbird Foundation announced that it will present the first-ever Jason Davis Scholarship to a deserving individual who is struggling with MS, in conjunction with substance use disorder or extreme depression.  The scholarship will award an individual with a full treatment program that addresses their mental health and addiction needs.  Jason’s longtime friend Matthew performed a song that they created together, rounding out a beautiful tribute to his legacy.

The live auction featured a wide variety of one-of-a-kind items including a jam session with the iconic Nile Rodgers on Zoom, a reading from Hollywood medium Tyler Henry, a mini Australian labradoodle, a private dinner for 20 at LA landmark Mr. Chow’s, and many more!  Siedah Garrett, who herself manages an MS diagnosis, delivered a beautiful musical performance, starting with a powerful new original piece she wrote for the current times entitled “The New Frontier: Say Their Names.”  She also treated the crowd, who responded with cheers and honking from their cars, to a performance of what is perhaps her best-known song, “Man in the Mirror,” which she co-wrote.  Eric Benét brought his effortless cool to the stage and performed “Georgy Porgy” for the crowd.  Derek Hough welcomed his friend Andy Grammer to the stage.  Grammer had the audience dancing along in their cars with a set list that included some of his biggest, and most uplifting, hits including “Good To Be Alive,” “Honey, I’m Good, “Keep Your Head Up,” “Back Home,” “Fresh Eyes,” and “Don’t Give Up On Me.”  As has become Race to Erase MS tradition, the evening concluded with a group performance of “Lean on Me,” led by Garrett, Benét, and Grammer.

Guests at the drive-in included founder Nancy Davis, Performers Andy Grammer, Eric Benét, and Siedah Garrett, Presenters Jordan Bell, Anne Heche, Marg Helgenberger, and Derek Hough, and Additional Special Guests including Brandee Evans, Brenda Banda, Caroline D’Amore, Cassie Scerbo, Christine Devine, Dave Winfield, Diana-Maria Riva, Elle Lorraine, Francesca Capaldi, Gerald Isaac Waters, Hilary Roberts, Jason Wahler, Jovan Adepo, Katelyn Ohashi, Katie Welch,  Keltie Knight, Logan Shroyer, Loni Love, Lucy Hale, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Maureen McCormick, Maximilian Acevedo , Olivia Sanabia, Pia Toscano, Victoria Justice, Xochitl Gomez, and more!  

On Friday, May 10, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) advocate and Center Without Walls founder, Nancy Davis, welcomed guests to the Beverly Hilton for its 26th Annual Race to Erase MS Gala. The event raised over $1.8 million to benefit the Race to Erase MS and its Center Without Walls program, a collaboration of top MS research centers working together as a team on ground-breaking research with the goal of treating and, ultimately, finding a cure for MS. The event honored actress Selma Blair for her bravery and strength demonstrated during her personal battle with MS, as well as the Hausman Family Foundation, for its incredible and most generous support of Race to Erase MS.

Guests at this year’s event included Race to Erase MS Founder Nancy Davis, honoree Selma Blair, honorees The Hausman Family, performers Aloe Blacc and Flo Rida, musical producer David Foster, presenters Johnny Galecki, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Dorothy Lucey, Jack Osbourne, Robin Roberts, special guests Kris Jenner, Tommy Hilfiger, LaToya Jackson, Avril Lavigne, Steven McQueen, Harry Hamlin, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Rumer Willis, Vanna White, Constance Zimmer, Frances Fisher, Byron Allen, Adán Allende, Mari Mediavilla and Fernando Allende, Loni Anderson, Garcelle Beauvais, Michael Campion, Francesca Capaldi, Tia Carrere, Maksim Chmerkovsky, Tommy Chong, Christine Devine, Peter Facinelli, David Faustino, Camille Grammer, Mason Grammer, Lizzy Greene, Delilah Belle Hamlin, Melora Hardin, Jessica Hart, Jimmy Jam, Keltie Knight, Charlotte McKinney, Katee Sackhoff, Olivia Sanabia, Barry Sloane, Karina Smirnoff, Lea Thompson, Diane Warren, Dave Winfield, and more!

The evening began with a special runway show from Hollywood-favorite fashion brand alice + olivia by Stacey Bendet. The looks were showcased by a variety of models and actors, including Delilah Belle Hamlin, Luca Bella Facinelli, Lilac Emery-Haynes and Mason Grammer. Race to Erase MS founder Nancy Davis took the stage next, thanking guests for being in the room to celebrate the 26th Annual Gala. She spoke of the incredible accomplishments of the organization over the past several years, including raising over $48 million for Race to Erase MS and its Center Without Walls program.

The luxurious live auction returned this year and featured one-of-a-kind opportunities and collector’s items including a skip trip at The Little Nell in Aspen Colorado, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to tour Abbey Road Studios (sold to Tommy Hilfiger!), and a Bahamas vacation aboard an Illusions yacht. The big item of the night was a Vanderhall Motor Works Venice GT Auto-Cycle, a classically redefined demonstration of art on wheels.

The first performer of the evening, Aloe Blacc, was introduced by David Foster and Jack Osbourne, who himself was diagnosed with MS in 2012. Blacc sang “The Man,” and “Candyman,” and closed his set with a beautiful rendition of Avicii’s “Wake Me Up.”

David Foster also introduced the night’s headliner, music superstar Flo Rida, who brought down the house with a twelve song set that included hits “Right Round,” “My House,” and “Wild Ones.”

In what has become a Race to Erase MS tradition over the past 26 years, an uplifting rendition of “Lean On Me,” was performed as the finale of the evening, led by Foster with help from Angelina Jordan, Adán Allende, and Fernando Allende.

On May 5th we celebrated our 24th Annual Race to Erase MS at the Beverly Hilton. Our honoree and 2017 “Medal of Hope” recipient was Jamie-Lynn Sigler who gave an emotional and inspiring speech, touching on the struggles she has encountered while living with MS, and relaying her hope for the future.

Nancy Davis welcomed guests to the 24th edition of the star-studded gala, and talked about an exciting new development in the MS community, the FDA approval of the newest treatment option for MS called OCREVUS. She spoke about the incredible impact of this drug, and the potential it has to improve the lives of those suffering from multiple sclerosis.

Presenters for the evening were Lance Bass, Kathy Griffin, Randy Jackson and Quincy Jones. Lucky bidders walked away with items including a tropical trip for two to the Maldives with business-class flights and luxury accommodations included, a private interview experience with legendary television host Larry King, a five-day vacation in the Bahamas aboard a private yacht and a bespoke Aston Martin DB11 Coupe.

Race to Erase MS continued its legacy of incredible musical performances this year with the iconic band CHICAGO who brought down the house with a nine-song set that included hits “If You Leave Me Now,” “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” “Just You ‘n’ Me,” “Make Me Smile,” “You’re the Inspiration,” “Hard to Say I’m Sorry,” “Saturday in the Park,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day,” and “25 or 6 to 4.” Singer-songwriter Siedah Garrett debuted her single “Carry On,” which she wrote after meeting Nancy Davis and was inspired by her determination. Garrett took a moment to share something that she had not made public yet, announcing that she had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis five years ago. After bravely sharing her diagnosis with the crowd, she sang the hit song she co-wrote for Michael Jackson, “Man in the Mirror,” and for the first time ever debuted her single “Carry On” live with Musical Director David Foster, and Shawn Hook, Olivia Keegan, David Osmond, and Trevis Brendmoe singing back up. Guests could not stop talking about the spectacular floral arrangements generously donated by Mark’s Garden. Mindy Weiss, well known event designer, created a lively auction atmosphere. Guests couldn’t leave without picking up the amazing Race to Erase MS gift bag so generously donated by Tiger J. Sweet E’s Bakeshop spoiled guests with scrumptious treats to top off the evening. We would like to thank our amazing presenting sponsors ALEX AND ANI, Aston Martin, The Beverly Hilton, and Associated Television International for their generous support. Our event sponsors were truly instrumental in making the Race to Erase MS an electrifying evening. Thank you to Evine, Mark’s Garden, Foley Family Wines, Svedka, Neo Super Water, and Bodvar House of Rosés for their incredible support. Thank you to Cristophe Salon and MAC, who created the amazing hair and makeup for our celebrity presenters and to TMSCORPRO who donated transportation for our entertainment. Please make sure to save the date April 20, 2018 for the 25th Anniversary of our Race to Erase MS!

Early this spring on April 15, 2016 we celebrated our 23rd Annual Race to Erase MS at the Beverly Hilton. Our honoree and 2016 “Medal of Hope” recipient ALEX AND ANI’s Carolyn Rafaelian who has a remarkable commitment to giving back to so many charities.

Presenters for the evening were LL Cool J, Jaime Pressly, Ashley Tisdale and Randy Jackson. The evening also included a live auction, during which lucky bidders walked away with items including a trip to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the Maldives with round-trip business class airfare on Etihad Airways, a stay on the Illusions yacht, an African Safari, and the opportunity to join Sharon and Kelly Osbourne for afternoon tea. Race to Erase MS continued its legacy of incredible musical performances this year with the iconic band KISS who performed hit songs including “Deuce”, “Calling Dr. Love”, “Cold Gin” and fan-favorite “Rock and Roll All Nite”. Jordan Smith gave an incredible performance that included his original song “Stand in the Light” and our Musical Director the talented David Foster brought Eric Benet onstage for a moving tribute to a longtime and supporter of the cause, the late Natalie Cole, with a rendition of “Unforgettable”. Guests could not stop talking about the spectacular floral arrangements generously donated by Mark’s Garden. Everyone commented on their extraordinary beauty. Mindy Weiss, well known event designer, created a lively auction atmosphere. Guests couldn’t leave without picking up the amazing Race to Erase MS gift bag so generously donated by Tiger J. Sweet E’s Bakeshop spoiled guests with scrumptious treats to top off the evening. We would like to thank our amazing presenting sponsors The Beverly Hilton, Associated Television International and ALEX AND ANI® for their generous support. Our event sponsors were truly instrumental in making the Race to Erase MS an electrifying evening. Thank you to Bianchi Winery, Svedka Vodka, Neo North America, New Belgium and Nice Guy Limo for their incredible support. Thank you to Cristophe Salon and MAC, who created the amazing hair and makeup for our celebrity presenters. Please make sure to save the date May 5, 2017 for our 24th Annual Race to Erase MS!

The 22nd Annual Race to Erase MS Gala took place on April 24, 2015 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. Themed “Love to Erase MS,” the event raised over $1.5 million to benefit the foundation’s Center Without Walls program to provide treatment and ultimately find a cure for MS.

The program included a live auction called by Letitia Frye during which lucky bidders walked away with items such as an Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT inspired by Tommy Hilfiger and an amazing 7 night vacation in Hawaii courtesy of St. Regis Hotels and Resorts. YouTube and music sensation MattyB opened the night with his hit song “Turn Up the Track”. Rita Ora one of today’s hottest musicians sang hits “Doing It”, “I Will Never Let You Down” and “Black Widow.” Grammy Award-winning artist Ne-Yo sang an incredible set which included his best hits “Sexy Love”, “So Sick”, “She Knows”, “Let Me Love You” and “Miss Independent”. In what has become a Race to Erase MS tradition over the past 22 years, an uplifting rendition of “Lean On Me,” was performed as the finale of the evening, led by Rita Ora and Ne-Yo who were joined on stage by Nancy Davis, Kathy Hilton, Tommy Hilfiger and more.

Celebrity guests at this year’s event included host Nancy Davis, honoree Tommy Hilfiger presenters Randy Jackson, Sharon, Kelly and Jack Osbourne, Anne Heche and James Tupper, G. Hannelius, Rowan Blanchard and Paris Hilton along with guests Rumer Willis, Frances Fisher, Francesca Eastwood, Carmen Electra, Lea Thompson, Byron Allen, Cheryl Burke, Val Chmerkovskiy, Christine Devine, Clementine Ford, Camille Grammer, Ioan Gruffudd and Alice Evans, Lydia Hearst, Robert Herjavec, Kym Johnson, Cobi Jones, Robert Knepper, Beth Littleford, Jon Lovitz, Aly and AJ Michalka, Austin North, Johnathon Schaech, Willow Shields, Lisa Vanderpump and Ken Todd, Loni Anderson, Lindsay Arnold, Pooch Hall, Frankie Avalon and many more.

Thank you to everyone who supported our 22nd Annual Race to Erase MS!

The 21st Annual Race to Erase MS Gala took place on May 2, 2014 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. Themed “Love to Erase MS,” the event raised over $1.75 million to benefit the foundation’s Center Without Walls program to provide treatment and ultimately find a cure for MS.

The program included a live auction called by Howie Mandel and Jack Osbourne, during which lucky bidders walked away with items such as a dinner with the Osbourne family at the SoHo House and a week stay at Tommy Hilfiger’s luxurious private home on the Caribbean Island of Mustique. CeeLo Green opened the show performing hits “Bright Lights Bigger City”, “Crazy,” and “Forget You”. Grammy Award-winning artist Natalie Cole spiced up the night with “Everlasting Love” and “Oye Como Va.” Steven Tyler closed the show with his incredible performances of “Jaded,” “Cryin,” “Walk This Way,” and “Dream On.” Natalie Cole then joined him on stage for a magical duet of “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.” In Race to Erase MS tradition, a rendition of “Lean On Me,” was performed as the finale of the evening, led by Steven Tyler, Randy Jackson, Natalie Cole, and Greg Phillinganes, who were joined on stage by Nancy Davis, Keegan Allen, David Osmond, Brenda Richie, Lynn Palmer, and more.

Celebrity guests at this year’s event included host Nancy Davis, honoree Dean Singleton, presenters Jordin Sparks, Shaun Robinson, Randy Jackson, Shemar Moore, and Keegan Allen, along with guests Jack Osbourne, Kelly Osbourne, Howie Mandel, Byron Allen, Barry Sloane, Jon Lovitz, Carmen Electra, Alessandra Ambrosio, Cody Simpson, Garcelle Beauvais, Daisy Fuentes, Greg Phillinganes, Cobi Jones, Johnathon Schaech, Frances Fisher, Jack Huston, Karina Smirnoff, Cheryl Burke, Bridget Mendler, Christine Devine, Tony Dovolani, Francesca Capaldi, Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin, Teri Garr, Thora Birch, Holland Roden, Crystal Reed, Laura Vandervoort, Emma Slater, Chelsie Hightower, Loni Anderson, Anna Trebunskaya, Lea Thompson, Tamera Mowry-Hously, Avon Jogia, Candace Cameron Bure, Zoey Deutch among others.

Thank you to everyone who supported our 21st Annual Race to Erase MS!

The Twentieth Annual Race to Erase MS took place on May 3, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.

The 20th Annual Race to Erase MS themed “Love to Erase MS” raised $1.8 million to benefit the foundation’s Center Without Walls program to provide treatment and ultimately find a cure for MS.

The 20th Annual Race to Erase MS included a live auction called by Howie Mandel and Shaun Robinson, during which lucky bidders walked away with items such as a seven day, six night stay at the luxurious private home on the Caribbean Island of Mustique at Tommy Hilfiger’s “Palm Beach” house, an Italian Dreams vacation including stays at the Cervo Hotel in Porto Cervo, the St. Regis Florence and the St. Regis Rome, a dinner party for 20 at Mr. Chow Beverly Hills, including flowers by Mark’s Garden and JAM Invitations and party consulting by Janis Gurnick and Mindy Weiss party Consultants, and much more. Taio Cruz who was joined by DJ Havana Brown opened the show performing hits “Break Your Heart”, “Higher” and “Dynamite”. Grammy Award-winning artist and musical icon Elton John sang an incredible eight-song set which included hits “Tiny Dancer”, “Your Song”, “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues”, “Rocket Man”, “Philadelphia Freedom”, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me”, “I’m Still Standing” and “The Circle of Life/Can You Feel the Love Tonight”. In Race to Erase MS tradition, a rendition of “Lean On Me,” was performed as the finale of the evening, led by Aly & AJ Michalka and Greg Phillinganes, who were joined on stage by Nancy Davis, Cybill Shepherd, Marg Helgenberger, Kelly Osbourne, LaToya Jackson, David Faustino and more.

Celebrity guests at this year’s event included host Nancy Davis, honorees Sharon Osbourne and Jack Osbourne, presenters Terrence Jenkins, Kelly Osbourne, Neil Patrick Harris and Marg Helgenberger, along with guests Rod Stewart, Howie Mandel, David Burtka, Cybill Shepherd, Byron Allen, Mel B, Catherine Bell, Cat Deeley, Victoria Justice, Ray Romano, Anne Heche and James Tupper, Kellie Pickler, Daisy Fuentes, Greg Phillinganes, Josh Hopkins, LaToya Jackson, Shaun Robinson, Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin, Dave Winfield, Shemar Moore, Matt Sorum, Barry Sloane, Swoosie Kurtz, Sara Gilbert and Linda Perry, Chelsie Hightower, Ryatt Rottman, Bella Thorne, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Bruno Tonioli, Kristin Cavallari, Anna Trebunskaya, Robert Knepper, Ziggy Marley, Alexis Knapp, Chris Zylka, Aly and AJ Michalka, Lea Thompson, Linda Gray, Camille Grammer among others.

Thank you to everyone who supported our special 20th Anniversary Race to Erase MS!

The Nineteenth Annual Race to Erase MS took place on May 18th, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.

The 19th Annual Race to Erase MS themed “Glam Rock to Erase MS” raised $1.8 million to benefit the Nancy Davis Foundation for Multiple Sclerosis and its Center Without Walls program which continues to raise funds in order to provide treatment and ultimately find a cure for MS. In addition to the $1.8 million raised this year, the Nancy Davis Foundation for Multiple Sclerosis has raised $23,519,888 in contributions since 1999, and has funded MS research grants and programs totaling $18,510,805.

The 19th Annual Race to Erase MS opened with an exciting celebrity fashion show featuring styles from the Andy Hilfiger Andrew Charles Rock ‘N’ Roll Collection in addition to a presentation of the debut collection Authentic Icon, inspired by American Idol. The evening also included a live auction called by Shaun Robinson and Jason Kennedy, during which lucky bidders walked away with items such as a Live Fashion Week Package from the Mandarin Oriental, New York including a three-night stay in a Premier Central Park View Suite, round-trip business-class airfare, two spa treatments, tickets to the Tommy Hilfiger women’s fall fashion show and a $5,000 shopping spree at the Tommy Hilfiger 5th Avenue store, and much more. The a variety of musical performances followed. American indie pop band Fitz and The Tantrums opened the show performing hits “Don’t Gotta Work It Out,” “L.O.V.,” a cover of “Sweet Dreams”, and “Money Grabber.” American Idol winner David Cook followed with an energetic set including “The Last Song I’ll Write for You,” “Light On,” and a cover of Led Zeppelin’s “Rock and Roll.” Guests then enjoyed a performance by vocal quartet The Tenors who a two-song set including a cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” Lastly, Grammy Award-winning artist and musical icon Lastly, Stevie Wonder sang a six-song set which included hits “Come Let Me Make Your Love Come Down,” “Higher Ground,” “Easy On Yourself,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” and “Superstition.” In Race to Erase MS tradition, a rendition of “Lean On Me,” was performed as the finale of the evening, this year led by Stevie Wonder.

Celebrity guests at this year’s event included host Nancy Davis, honorees Teri Garr and Deb & Bill MacMillan, presenters Marg Helgenberger, Cybill Shepherd, Khloe Kardashian-Odom and Lamar Odom, Shaun Robinson and Jason Kennedy, performers Stevie Wonder, Fitz and The Tantrums, David Cook and The Tenors, along with guests Taylor Armstrong, Spencer Boldman, Lacey Chabert, Taylor Dayne, Janice Dean, Diana DeGarmo, Zoey Deutch, Christine Devine, Francesca Eastwood, Carmen Electra, Shannon Elizabeth, Clementine Ford, Camille Grammer, Maddie Hasson, Taylor Hicks, LaToya Jackson, Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, Avan Jogia, Robert Knepper, Jon Lovitz, Camilla Luddington, Jacob Lusk, Jonathan “Lil J” McDaniel, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Jack Osbourne, David Osmond, Kalia Prescott, Megyn Price, Shawn Pyfrom, Quddus, Kim Richards, Bobbie Riley, Deja Riley, Taja Riley, Evan Ross, Catt Sadler, Anjelica Salem, Cassie Scerbo, Charlie Sheen, Antonique Smith, Lea Thompson, Pia Toscano, Anna Trebunskaya, Mayra Veronica, Clay Walker, Ace Young, among others.

Guests couldn’t leave without picking up the coveted Race to Erase MS gift bag, enjoying such items as makeup from Laura Geller, certificates to The Bar Method of Los Angeles and Massage LA, nail polish from Essie, socks by Tommy Hilfiger, teeth whitening pens from Star White, to name a few. The evening was sponsored by EMD Serono, Hyatt Regency Century Plaza, Associated Television International and American Airlines.

Thank you to everyone who came to support the 19th Annual Race to Erase MS to help us race faster to the finish line to find a cure for multiple sclerosis!

The Eighteenth Annual Race to Erase MS took place on April 29, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.

The 18th Annual Race to Erase MS themed Rock and Royalty opened with an exciting celebrity fashion show featuring a sneak preview of Andrew Charles, the new fashion line by Andy Hilfiger. Following the fashion show Andy Hilfiger surprised the crowd by performing “Jumpin Jack Flash” with his band. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and Clay Walker provided musical entertainment at the end of the night. Honorees at this year”s gala included MS survivor Katie Mattingly Brass and William O. “Bill” Perkins who both serve on the Board for the Nancy Davis Foundation for Multiple Sclerosis.

In a nod to the event”s royal theme, A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz unveiled a one-of-a-kind exclusively designed wedding gown inspired by the Royal Wedding Gown worn by Catherine Middleton. At the end of the night guests were treated to delicious cupcakes from Gilt City which they could pair with a tasty concoction from the Don Francisco’s Coffee espresso bar.

Most importantly, the event raised over $2 million dollars for our Center Without Walls program – a research collaboration between the top doctors in the field of Multiple Sclerosis.

Celebrity guests at this year”s event included host, MS survivor and advocate Nancy Davis, along with Byron Allen, Jake T. Austin, Allison Baver, Garcelle Beauvais, Drake Bell, BG5, Cheryl Burke, Tia Carrere, Mike Catherwood, Steven Cojocaru, Holly Marie Combs, Rachael Leigh Cook, Cindy Crawford, Mark Curry, Zoey Deutch, Janice Dickinson, The Donnas, David Faustino, Clementine Ford, Daisy Fuentes, Teri Garr, Debbie Gibson, Daniel Gillies, Ashlan Gorse, Melissa Joan Hart, Samantha Harris, Andy Hilfiger, Nicky Hilton, Paris Hilton, LaToya Jackson, Kym Johnson, Robbie Jones, Chelsea Kane, Jason Kennedy, Regina King, Amber Lancaster, Sugar Ray Leonard, Jon Lovitz, Virginia Madsen, Bill Maher, Christopher Massey, Kyle Massey, Dr. Lisa Masterson, AJ Michalka, Rickey Minor, Dr. Andrew Ordon, David Osmond, Crystal Reed, Keith Rivers, Shaun Robinson, Melissa Rycroft, Angelica Salem, Allen Schwartz, Matt Sorum, Raven Symone, Lea Thompson, Jennifer Tilly, Anna Trebunskaya, Louis Van Amstel, Mayor Villaraigosa, Jason Wahler, Hines Ward, Sela Ward, Austin Winkler and many more. After celebrities made their way down the red carpet, they stopped by the Windows Phone Booth to take photos and record videos to tweet. For each celebrity video tweeted Windows Phone donated $500 to the cause.

The evening was sponsored by Tommy Hilfiger, American Airlines, EMD Serono, Pfizer, Hyatt Regency Century Plaza and Associated Television International.

Thank you to everyone who made the 18th Annual Race to Erase MS a success!

The Seventeenth Annual Race to Erase MS took place on May 7th, 2010 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.

The 17th Annual Race to Erase MS event featured a spectacular live celebrity fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger, dazzling silent and live auctions and performances by Avril Lavigne, Heart, and Dr. Hollywood.

The event raised over $2million dollars for our Center Without Walls program – a research collaboration between the top doctors in the field of Multiple Sclerosis.

Major sponsors included Tommy Hilfiger, U.S.A., Inc., American Airlines, Lamborghini, EMD Serono Pfizer, Associated Television International, and Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. Among the celebrity guests in attendance were Buzz Aldrin, Loni Anderson, Tom Arnold, Drake Bell, Mayim Bialik, Brooke Burke, Sophia Bush, Kaley Cuoco, Taylor Dayne, Tony Dovolani, Erik Estrada, David Faustino, Jenny Fletcher, Debbie Gibson, Ashlan Gorse, Heart, Anne Heche, Chelsie Hightower, Nicky Hilton, Paris Hilton, Kelly Hu, Stephanie Jacobsen, Brody Jenner, Kym Johnson, Robert Knepper, Ali Landry, Jessica Lowndes, Gilles Marini, James Maslow, Chris Massey, Kyle Massey, Rickey Minor, Nancy O’Dell, Masi Oka, Megyn Price, Kelly Rutherford, Melissa Rycroft, Jennifer Taylor, Alessandra Torresani, James Tupper, Aiden Turner, Louis Van Amstel, Damian Whitewood, and Austin Winkler. Presenters at this year’s gala included Olympic gold medalists Apolo Anton Ohno and Lindsey Vonn, as well as Dr. Phil & Robin McGraw and Christopher & Kyle Massey.

Guests couldn’t leave without picking up the coveted Race to Erase MS gift bag, enjoying delicious cupcakes from CRUMBS Bake Shop while they waited.

The Sixteenth Annual Race to Erase MS took place on May 8, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.

The 16th Annual Rock to Erase MS event featured performances by Dancing with the Stars, Michelle Branch, the Eagles, and David Osmond.

We also had a very fun silent auction, as well as a live auction which featured amazing auctioneer Vanessa Thanos! Mario Lopez mcee’d our event, and Mayor Villaraigosa presented Nancy Davis with an award.

The event raised over $2 million dollars for our Center Without Walls program – a research collaboration between the top doctors in the field of Multiple Sclerosis.

Major sponsors included Tommy Hilfiger, U.S.A., Inc., American Airlines, Lamborghini, EMD Serono Pfizer, Associated Television International, and Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. Among the guests were such superstars as, Dustin Hoffman.

Thank you to everyone who made the 16th Annual Race to Erase MS a success!

Singer Frankie Valli from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

The Fifteenth Annual Race to Erase MS took place on May 2, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.

The Gala evening featured a celebrity fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger, a dazzling Live and Silent auction, Gourmet Dinner, and live performances by Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

The evening raised over $2 million and benefits the groundbreaking research for the treatment and ultimate cure of MS. All proceeds from the event went directly to The Nancy Davis Center Without Walls program.

Major sponsors included Tommy Hilfiger, U.S.A., Inc., American Airlines, EMD Serono, Associated Television International and Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. Among the guests were such superstars as, Howie Mandel, Ray Romano, Anne Heche, Emmy Rossum, Paris and Nicky Hilton, Shannon Elizabeth, Maria Mendunos, Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin, James Tupper and Tom Arnold.

Thank you to everyone who made the 15th Annual Race to Erase MS a success!

The Fourteenth Annual Race to Erase MS, Dance to Erase MS took place on April 13, 2007 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.

The Gala evening featured a celebrity fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger, a dazzling Live and Silent auction, Gourmet Dinner, and live performances by Earth, Wind & Fire, Goo Goo Dolls and Donna Summer.

The evening raised over $2.5 million and benefits the groundbreaking research for the treatment and ultimate cure of MS. All proceeds from the event went directly to The Nancy Davis Center Without Walls program.

Major sponsors included Tommy Hilfiger, U.S.A., Inc., American Airlines, EMD Serono, Associated Television International and Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. Among the guests were such superstars as Virginia Madsen, Apolo Anton Ohno, Joey Fatone, Nick and Drew Lachey, Nicole Richie, Stacey Keibler, Ray Romano, Ian Ziering and Michelle Rodriguez.

The Thirteenth Annual Race to Erase MS, Disco Fever to Erase MS, took place on May 12, 2006 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.

The Gala evening featured a dazzling Live and Silent auction, Tommy Hilfiger fashion show, Gourmet Dinner, and live performances by Kool & The Gang, Sister Sledge and Natalie Cole.

The evening raised over $2.5 million and benefits the groundbreaking research for the treatment and ultimate cure of MS. All proceeds from the event went directly to The Nancy Davis Center Without Walls program.

Major sponsors included Tommy Hilfiger, U.S.A., Inc., American Airlines, Serono, and Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. We appreciate the support in finding MS a cure! Among the guests were such superstars as Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Jon Lovitz, Rod Stewart, Randy Jackson, Lisa Rinna, Kelly Osbourne, Lara Flynn Boyle , Stevie Wonder, Tom Arnold and Brooke Shields.

The Twelfth Annual Race to Erase MS took place on Friday, April 22, 2005.

The biggest names in music united in a star-studded spectacular at The Century Plaza Hotel and Spa featuring live musical performances by Earth, Wind & Fire and Natalie Cole. The gala event included a rock and royalty style celebrity fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger and a live and silent auction hosted by Tom Arnold, Tony Danza and Bill Maher.

Over $2.5 million was raised to fund groundbreaking research for the treatment and ultimate cure of MS. All proceeds from the event went directly to The Nancy Davis Center Without Walls program.

This exciting evening had special introductions by Drea de Mateo, Jamie-Lynn DiScala, Randy Jackson, Catherine Oxenberg & Casper Van Dien and was generously sponsored by Tommy Hilfiger, American Airlines, The Century Plaza Hotel and Spa Ferrari and Serono. Among the 1,300 guests were such superstars as Lindsay Lohan, Nicole Richie, Anne Heche, Anjelica Huston, Virginia Madsen, Ray Romano, Blair Underwood, Maria Menounos, Nicollette Sheridan, Regina King, Dule Hill, Carmen Electra and Dave Navarro.

The Eleventh Annual RACE to Erase MS took place on Friday, May 14, 2004.

The biggest names in music united in a star-studded spectacular at The Century Plaza Hotel and Spa featuring live musical performances by Cyndi Lauper, David Lee Roth and Natalie Cole. The gala event included a glam style celebrity fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger and a live and silent auction hosted by Tom Arnold, Tony Danza and Bill Maher.

Over $2 million was raised to fund groundbreaking research for the treatment and ultimate cure of MS. All proceeds from the event went directly to The Nancy Davis Center Without Walls.

This exciting evening had special introductions by Michael Chiklis, Bonnie Hunt, Ray Romano, Molly Sims, was generously sponsored by Tommy Hilfiger, American Airlines, The Century Plaza Hotel and Spa and Serono. Among the 1,300 guests were such superstars as Lindsay Lohan, Mischa Barton, Nicole Richie, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Paula Abdul, Lara Flynn Boyle, Carmen Electra, Sidney Poitier, Jon Lovitz, Jamie Lynn Discala and Dennis Rodman.

The Tenth Annual RACE to Erase MS took place on Friday, May 10, 2003.

The biggest names in music united in a star-studded spectacular at The Century Plaza Hotel and Spa featuring live musical performances by The Four Tops, Eric Benet, Thelma Houston, and Jamia Simone Nash. The gala event included a retro style celebrity fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger and a live and silent auction hosted by Tom Arnold, Tony Danza and Montel Williams.

Over $2 million was raised to fund groundbreaking research for the treatment and ultimate cure of MS. All proceeds from the event went directly to The Nancy Davis Center Without Walls.

This exciting evening, co-hosted by Kelsey Grammer and Jane Leeves, was generously sponsored by Tommy Hilfiger, American Airlines, The Century Plaza Hotel and Spa and Serono. Among the 1,300 guests were such superstars as Melanie Griffith, Rod Stewart, Angelica Huston, Sarah Wynter, Kenny G, Lisa Kudrow, Lisa Rinna, Harry Hamlin, Jennifer Tilly, Jon Lovitz, Nick Lachey, Michael Chiklis and Rachael Leigh Cook.

The Ninth Annual RACE to Erase MS took place on Friday, May 10, 2002.

The biggest names in music united in a star-studded spectacular at The Century Plaza Hotel and Spa featuring live musical performances by Smokey Robinson, Donna Summer, Don Henley, and Stevie Nicks. The gala event included a 70’s style celebrity fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger and a live and silent auction hosted by Tom Arnold, Tony Danza and Bill Maher.

Nearly $2.6 million was raised to fund groundbreaking research for the treatment and ultimate cure of MS. All proceeds from the event went directly to The Nancy Davis Center Without Walls.

This exciting evening, co-hosted by Sela Ward and Jay Mohr, was generously sponsored by Tommy Hilfiger, VH1, American Airlines, The Century Plaza Hotel and Spa and Serono. Among the 1,300 guests were such superstars as Sylvester Stallone, Ray Romano, Brooke Shields, Tara Reid, Lisa Kudrow, Lisa Rinna, Harry Hamlin, Jennifer Tilly, Jon Lovitz, Montel Williams, and Angela Bassett.

The Eighth Annual RACE to Erase MS, May 18, 2001, proved to be one of the biggest and best events ever as the RACE returned to the newly renovated Century Plaza Hotel & Spa.

For this year’s “Rock ‘N Soul to Erase MS” Nancy Davis, Tommy Hilfiger, and John Sykes of VH1, collaborated to reinvent the annual event with new flare and excitement. This evening produced by David Foster featured stellar performances from Stevie Wonder, Donna Summer, Brian McKnight and Nelly Furtado.

The celebrity filled crowd was on its feet raising the roof and nearly 2.5 million dollars for MS. Surprise appearances by Cher and Mick Jagger were among the highlights as was the live auction.

Former Bay Watch star, David Hasselhoff bid a whopping $42,000 for a trip around the world courtesy of American Airlines and Starwood Hotels. Other celebrity supporters included John Travolta, Kelly Preston, Penny Marshall, Rachael Leigh Cook,Thora Birch, Jennifer Tilly, Montel Williams, Angelica Huston, Lea Thompson, Joe Pantoliano, Stone Phillips, Sylvester Stallone, and Dustin Hoffman.

The Seventh Annual RACE to Erase MS, April 28, 2000, brought a new powerhouse to the fight against MS, talk-show host, Montel Williams. The RACE honored Montel as the first “Man of Courage” award recipient for his excellence in bringing nationwide awareness to the plight of all those suffering with multiple sclerosis.

The event returned to Los Angeles and the Century Plaza Hotel with a theme of Pop Art, Pop Culture and Pop Music. The evening consisted of a silent and live auction, a fabulous dinner, a Tommy Hilfiger celebrity fashion show, and entertainment by Bush, 98 Degrees, and Wyclef Jean. The show was hosted by Tom Arnold, Bill Maher and Billy Connolly.

This years attendance rose to over 1200 supporters including Sylvester Stallone, Gina Gershon, Michael Clarke Duncan, Dustin Hoffman, Rachael Leigh Cook, Dominique Swain, Eric McCormack, Jenny McCarthy, Catherine Bell, Jim Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, David Hasselhoff, Daisy Fuentes, Donny Osmond, Bijou Phillips and Christian Slater.

This was a monumental year for the Race as Grammy Award winning producer David Foster and Sony/Epic Records came together to help us produce “Keeping the Dream Alive”, a compilation CD featuring The RACE to Erase MS theme song “Lean on Me”. The CD was available in 2001 and all proceeds will go to the Nancy Davis Center Without Walls.

The Sixth Annual RACE to Erase MS, May 21, 1999, took a gamble and hit the jack-pot when it headed to Las Vegas to celebrate the grand re-opening of the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and its commitment to finding a cure for MS.

The weekend event included a 5K run/walk, a medical symposium, a celebrity poker tournament, concerts by the Goo-Goo Dolls, Hootie and the Blowfish, and Cheap Trick, stand-up comedy by David Spade, phenomenal silent and live auctions, and a Tommy Hilfiger fashion show featuring Jerry O’Connell, Rebecca Romijn-Stamos, Michael Bergin, and Portia DeRossi.

A crowd of more than 1,000 including Kevin Costner, Woody Harrelson, Angelina Jolie, Joe Pantoliano, John Stamos, Rebecca Romijn-Stamos, Lara Flynn Boyle, Jenny McCarthy, and Dennis Rodman flew in for the sixth annual gala sponsored by VH-1, Tommy Hilfiger and The Hard Rock. This event-filled weekend raised over 2.5 million dollars for crucial MS research.

The Fifth Annual RACE to Erase MS, November 14, 1997, explored the fascinating world of fashion.

Our principal sponsor, Tommy Hilfiger, who has graciously supported The RACE To Erase MS since its inception, honored our cause as sole beneficiary of the opening of his first flagship store in Beverly Hills on Friday, November 14, 1997.

Highlighting the evenings festivities at the Century Plaza Hotel was a fabulous runway show starring top models (Naomi Campbell, Bridget Hall, Marcus Schenkenberg, Esther Canadas, Alex Lundquist) celebrity models (Lisa Rinna & Harry Hamlin, Tia Carrere, Carmen Electra, Richard Grieco, David Arquette and Gwen Stefani). ALL SPORTING TOMMY HILFIGER GEAR! Performances by Sheryl Crow, No Doubt and Natalie Cole were unforgettable.

Co-chairs Nancy Davis, Tommy Hilfiger and VH1’s John Sykes were thrilled with the event’s success and among the evenings supporters were emcees Jon Lovitz and Phil Hartman, with special guests including Sean Penn, Leonardo DiCaprio, Cindy Crawford, Dustin Hoffman, Quincy Jones, Bill Maher, Sidney Poitier, Fran Drescher, Jared Leto, Penelope Ann Miller, Jenny McCarthy, Sugar Ray Leonard, Don Henley and Gabriel Byrne. Together they raised more than $2.3 million!

The Fourth Annual RACE to Erase MS moved the event to Los Angeles for the first time and took place June 1, 1996.

The summer sports fest was quite a departure from the Aspen ski party, but with the same theme: RACE! There was boxing, tennis, running, jumping, leaping, eating, buying, donating, laughing! You name it, we did it – including earning $2 million for The UCLA Medical Center’s Dr. Ellision and The Center Without Walls.

Produced by David Foster, Don Henley, Natalie Cole and Bill Maher performed with Jon Lovitz and Phil Hartman as the emcees. Celebrities in attendance included Muhammad Ali, Jerry Seinfeld, Dustin Hoffman, Courtney Thorne Smith, David Spade, Marlee Matlin, Chris Farley and Frances Fisher.

The Third Annual RACE to Erase MS, February 10 & 11, 1995, was held in Vail, Colorado.

The only thing comparable to the fun on the hill was the star-studded bash off the ski course. Produced by David Foster, performances by Natalie Cole and Kenny G brought down the house while friends Dean Cain, Lisa Rinna, Harry Hamlin, Sugar Ray Leonard, Phil Hartman and Kevin Pollak joined in the very cold and blizzard-ish fun. The third annual Race earned an additional $1.7 million!

The Second Annual RACE to Erase MS, February 11 & 12, 1994, brought out the stars once again to Aspen, Colorado – and the fund raising dollars.

Kenny G and Kenny Loggins rocked the house with an impromptu performance by Gloria Estefan. Comedic performance included Dennis Miller. The auction was emceed by Dennis Miller, Ed Begley Jr. and MC Hammer. Super celebrities like Sylvester Stallone, Pierce Brosnan Lynda Carter, Kim Alexis, Marlee Matlin and Richard Dean Anderson made the $1.5 million weekend a blast.

Just who won that downhill slalom race? Aw, we’ll never tell! But Team Nancy was out in full force and ready for another year. Proceeds for the race went to The Nancy Davis Center Without Walls.

1993 1st Annual Race to Erase MS Gala

The first-ever RACE to Erase MS was held in Aspen, Colorado just one year after chairman Nancy Davis was diagnosed with the illness on a ski vacation.

The two-day event which took place February 14 & 15, 1993, raised $1.3 million for the MS research efforts of Dr. George Ellison of UCLA, The Rocky Mountain MS Center and The Aspen Valley Hospital.

The pro-celebrity ski race held in conjunction with the Chrysler Pro Ski Tour included stars MC Hammer who performed at the Country Western Party Friday evening, Michael Bolton and Kenny G performed Saturday night and celebrities in attendance included Dennis Miller, George Hamilton and Jimmy Connors. And we can’t forget the snow volleyball tournament that landed more snowballs than spike balls!

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