For 12 hours on April 6, cyclists will put their hearts into raising money for the upcoming iCan Bike Camp in Fulton.
The Stationary iCan Bike-A-Thon, a family event, will be 11 a.m.-11 p.m. People are welcome to ride several stationary bikes that will be set up at The Station, 550 Commons Drive in Fulton, until the doors close. Stationary bike miles can be counted at the event.
"It was mostly Kelli Tate, down at The Station," said iCan's Nancy Hanson of the genesis of the event. "I'll ride, too."
All proceeds will help offset the costs of the iCan Bike Camp, scheduled this year for June 17-21 at 54 Country in Fulton.
Between now and April 6, participants for the bike-a-thon are invited to get sponsors as well to help raise money. The winner for most donations will be announced at 6 p.m. If you prefer not to raise money, you can still come ride and make a donation to iCan Bike Camp at The Station anytime.
The iCan Bike Camp is a weeklong camp using adapted bicycles, a specialized instruction program and trained staff to enable individuals with disabilities to learn to ride a two-wheeled bicycle. The goal is to teach people with disabilities how to ride a bike and become lifelong independent riders.
This is a week of confidence-building.
The camp is funded by donations and sponsorships by individuals and businesses who want to make a difference in the lives of youngsters. Riders also pay a registration fee to attend camp, but most of the time this fee can be paid through a state agency or a scholarship as funding allows.
Donations are tax-deductible.
To participate in iCan Bike Camp, a rider must be at least 8 years old. Older teenagers and adults also are welcome. Campers also must have a disability or a barrier, be able to walk and sidestep, be able to wear a helmet, be able to attend the same session all five days, and weigh no more than 220 pounds with a minimum inseam of 20 inches. Campers also must have a completed rider registration form.
Volunteers are needed, with tasks including spotting a rider, directing bike traffic inside and outside, talking with families, photography.
For information on the bike camp, contact organizer Nancy Hanson at [email protected] or 573-826-0223.