Habitat for Humanity calls for riders, small and tale, for its Bicycle Challenge

Central Valley — The 2006 Habitat for Humanity Bicycle Challenge will be passing through the area this weekend. From 5:30 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 28, they will be at the Central Valley United Methodist Church at 12 Smith Clove Road in Central Valley. The riders will offer a personal bicycle safety check, tips on riding, proper clothing and safety, as well as information about Habitat for Humanity. The instructors will be 30 college students from across the country, who are participating in the bicycle challenge. This is the twelfth year for the cross-country ride raising money for Habitat for Humanity.A total of 90 students are riding across country this year, to generate about $360,000 to underwrite the construction of five Habitat homes. Each rider raised $4,000 for Habitat before they began the bike trip. The pedaling isn’t always easy. In nine weeks, they will cover 4,000 miles of back country roads, while dealing with flat tires, steep hills, and adverse weather. The cyclists average 70 miles a day as they pedal their way to end poverty housing. Along the way, they stop at local Habitat construction sites to lend a hand in the building. They also take time to talk to cyclists and teach young bike riders about the sport. They also share their knowledge and experiences to raise awareness of Habitat’s work throughout the country. For more information, call 928-6570.