Cycle for Hope
By: WROC
Updated: June 24, 2008
You Can Spin Gold, for Kids. Spinning gold is no longer relegated to the realm of Rumpelstiltskin and fairytales. It's for the real world, too. And come Saturday, Feb. 3, you'll have a chance to engage in some spinning yourself (on stationary bikes) that's guaranteed to reap gold (well, money) for local children's charities.
On that day, nine Rochester-area health clubs and fitness centers are planning to open their doors to the public for the second annual Cycle for Hope, a cycling fundraiser that unites Rochester spinning enthusiasts (and first-timers) for the benefit of both Golisano Children's Hospital at Strong and Camp Good Days and Special Times.
Last year's event drew nearly 200 cyclists, who together raised $10,000.
The day of cycling runs from 9 a.m to 3 p.m. at individual clubs. Later on that day, participants are invited to convene at Hawthorne 's Restaurant, 3500 East Ave. , for a 5 p.m. after-party complete with complimentary food and a cash bar ($15 for non-cyclists).
To participate, cyclists pay $20 per hour on bike (they are encouraged to cover this fee by soliciting pledges) and must contact clubs in advance to register and to reserve timeslots on bikes. Cyclists who raise more than $60 per cycling hour will receive a commemorative duffel bag.
More information is available at www.cycleforhope.com and at participating clubs. For more a list of participating clubs, please visit www.gchas.org or contact Karen Eisenberg at (585) 273-1462 or Linda Dirksen at (585) 273-5939.
