Bike-A-Thon rescheduled for June 14

By Jaine treadwell The Messenger

The St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Bike-A-Thon, originally scheduled for May 15, has been rescheduled for June 14.

Brundidge Police Chief Moses Davenport, chairman of the fundraising event, said the original date came on the heels of the Pike County Relay for Life event and he thought it would be a good idea to put some time distance between the two worthwhile causes.

"Right now everyone is focused on Relay for Life, we decided to have the Bike-a-Thon to benefit St. Jude's in June," Davenport said.

The St. Jude Bike-a-Thon route will be in the Caldwell Subdivision and will get under way at 8 a.m.

"The Bike-a-Thon is mainly for young people," Davenport said. "It a way for young people to help other young people, but we'll be glad for any adults who want to participate to ride along."

There will be a short, flat route for the younger riders, but the older bikers will have a longer, more challenging route.

"Each rider is asked to get sponsors who will either donate a flat sum for them to ride or so much per mile," Davenport said. "Each rider who collects $35 or more will get a tee-shirt and other prizes will be awarded according to the amount raised. The more money a rider raises, the nicer the prize."

Sponsors are also needed for the St. Jude Bike-a-Thon and businesses and individuals are encouraged to support this worthwhile cause.

"A sponsor can pledge so much money and the riders' names will be placed in a hat," Davenport said. "We'll draw out a name to determine which rider gets the sponsor's donation."

Sponsors may also donate strictly to the St. Jude benefit.

Forms for riders and sponsors can be picked up at the Brundidge Police Station. Although it's not necessary to register prior to the Bike-a-Thon, Davenport said it is helpful with the planning if the riders register prior to the day of the Bike-a-Thon.

Those who ride in the St. Jude Bike-a-Thon will be treated to refreshments after the ride and be eligible for some special prizes.