Full Notification

THE EVENT

Bike the Bridges is a fundraising event for Special Olympics Northern California. The event began in 2009 with the hope of raising $10,000 and having 100 riders. That first event far surpassed expectations with over 400 riders and over $50,000 raised for Special Olympics. The money is used to cover the costs of athletes with intellectual disabilities at local, state, and world competitions. Special Olympics Northern California helps nearly 20,000 athletes in almost 200 events on a yearly basis. All of this is done with no cost to the athlete. Fewer than 10% of people with intellectual disabilities have jobs, but 54% of Special Olympic Athletes have a job. Bike the Bridges has raised over $400,000 for Special Olympic athletes in Northern California.

THE HISTORY
The idea for the bicycle ride was hatched by officers waiting in line for traffic court one morning in 2008. As talk of a friendly competition amongst bicycle trained police officers, a partnership with Special Olympics Northern California was hatched. Through the efforts of officers from the El Cerrito, Pinole, and Hercules Police Departments the event was born.

THE RIDE
The ride begins and ends in the Martinez Waterfront Park. Riders have their choice of a 25, 60, or 100 mile bicycle ride which takes them across the scenic Carquinez and Benicia Bridges as well as some of the beautiful scenery our San Francisco Bay Area has to offer. The ride is supported by local law enforcement officers volunteering their time on police motorcycles. At the end of the ride everyone is invited to join us for a post ride lunch and craft beer festival in the park.

RIDE & FESTIVAL SCHEDULE
Please report to the parking lot on the Corner of N Court St. and Joe DiMaggio Dr.

6:30 am - Registration open for Century and 100K riders
7:00 am - Registration opens for 25mi/50K riders
8:30 am - Opening Ceremonies
9:00 am - Ride begins (25mi & 50K)
11:30 am - Brew Fest with live music, craft beer, rider awards and all you can eat BBQ
11:30 am - Michael Beck Band
2:00 pm - Dyana & the Cherry Kings
4:30 pm - Brew Fest ends

All ride support is generously provided by law enforcement personnel. Refueling stations and SAG vehicles are featured on all routes to assist, support and encourage cyclists.

Choose the ride for you: 25mi*, 100K (62mi) or Century (100mi) ride.

*Back by popular demand! Register for the 25mi route and extend your ride to 50K at no additional cost

Rider registration includes: All you can eat BBQ lunch hosted by 96H Brand Catering, new this year - a commemorative t-shirt and the option to purchase a discounted Brew Fest unlimited pour wristband for only $15 when you register for the ride.

If you want more competition, try the King/Queen of the Mountain competition mid ride. For more information please go to: https://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1157773