Cyclists of all ages are invited to participate in Chasing the Cure, a short track cross-country mountain bike race March 6 at Flat Rock Park in Columbus.
The multi-lap race will include a wide-open single track, tight single track and a flat rock crossing. The race will have 17 classes from beginners to experts. The top three cyclists in each class will receive medals and prizes.
All of the proceeds from the race will benefit Cure, an organization that funds children's cancer clinical research and helps fund families financially who have children diagnosed with cancer.
"This race is for a good cause," said Paul Hein, race founder. "This is a way to help families get financial help when it comes to treatment."
Hein and his wife, Tammy, of Columbus, know firsthand the benefits of Cure.
When their son, Noah, 10, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in February 2008, it was a month later he was in a clinical study that was funded by Cure. By the end of March 2008, Noah went into remission.
"As of August 2009, Noah has reached the half way point of a three-year treatment plan," The Heins wrote on the Chasing the Cure Web site. "He is doing well and we know his remission is due to the research that Cure has been able to support."
One of Noah and Paul's favorite things to do before Noah was diagnosed was mountain bike racing. It seemed fitting to have a mountain bike race to raise money for Cure, Paul said.
The cost of the race is $10 for children 9 and younger, $15 for children ages 10 to 17 and $40 for adults 18 and older.
Participants can preregister by visiting www.chasingthecure.webs.com or they can register the day of the event.
Registration will open at 7 a.m. and closes 30 minutes prior to each race. The races will run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Helmets are required.
There will be free helmet fittings by Safe Kids Columbus and inflatables for the children. Spectators are welcome.
For more information, go to www.chasingthecure.webs.com, e-mail chasingthecure@hotmail.com or call Paul at 706-366-6548.
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