It’s time to gear up for the 8th annual Boys & Girls Club Cycling Challenge!
This highly anticipated event starts at 8 a.m. on Sunday, September 15, at the Old Trail Village. What better way to spend your Sunday morning than biking along the beautiful, winding foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains while simultaneously raising money for kids in need? It’s a definite win-win.
If you’re not sure how long you can last on a road bike, there are mileage options for every level. The routes include 25, 50, 75, and 100 miles. There is also an 8 mile out and back family ride which allows those little ones with shorter legs to participate. And if you’re still on the fence about participating or just enjoy waiting until the last minute, rest assured, there is day-of registration starting at 6:30am. Volunteering is another great way to get involved. Sign up here to help with race day happenings.
There will also be some rising, current and former professional cyclists in attendance to lend some star power to the event. Hot Tubes Cycling Development Team will be sending some of their up and comers to ride in the race, as well as Tour de France rider Will Frischkorn, plus Jonny Brown, Colin Joyce, and Jake King. Local phenom Ben King is also rumored to be in attendance and/or riding in the challenge. These riders will not only inspire challengers to ride, but will emphasize attaining one’s life goals through hard work and perseverance.
As for the fundraising, the Boys & Girls Club put together a great list of tips for participants. It doesn’t have to be hard and in the end it benefits nearly 1800 kids in need. The funds raised go directly to the organization and support its five core areas of service: Education & Career Development, Health & Life Skills, The Arts, Character & Leadership Development, and Sports, Fitness & Recreation. The goal this year is to raise $115,000. Let’s help make that happen! But keep in mind, you don’t have to fundraise to participate in the ride.
Be sure to stick around for the after party at Old Trail Village Swim Club. There will be live music and lunch provided from Charlottesville’s own Eppie’s. Local beer and wine will also be served. It’s sure to be a celebration for all.
