Pedal-Push for a Purpose

This weekend, locals can get a workout and spin with a purpose.

The is holding a on Saturday. Residents are invited to come to the multi-purpose room at the gym and work out their legs to help raise money for the center.

Those ready for a fitness challenge, and even those just wanting to help out a cause, can save a stationary bike at the YMCA for and ride in place during 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.—that’s “10 hours of high energy fun,” according to the center’s Financial Development and Events Director Emily Figueiredo.

“We are celebrating a “dawn to dusk” 10 hour event to commemorate our 10th anniversary of this annual fundraiser,” Figueiredo said in an email to Patch. “There is a new instructor each hour, so most people ride for one hour and transition to their next teammate to keep the day going.”

The day will consist of 30 teams and about 300 participants total. Figueiredo said that while most teammates will switch off and share the bike duties, some people will stick it out as long as they can to test their endurance.

Teams of ten will make up the day, with each team captain aiming to raise $1,000 per bike. Donations can be made here, as well as registering for a team.

The all-day spinning comes with its perks. During the bike-a-thon there will be a live auction, 4 year old YMCA Pee Wee Cheerleaders to cheer on the riders, dance demos, a fashion show and even a visit from Olympic athletes.

“The 11:00 hour is the Elite Power Hour which will showcase Olympic athletes, star triathletes and record holders,” Figueiredo said. “’[Followed by] a fashion show of athletic wear modeled by North County’s top high school athletes.”

Prizes from local sponsors, like Landscapes USA, PowerBar, lululemon athletica, the Mintz Family, Shoebacca.com and Sock Guy, will be given out to the team who’s raised the most money and everyone will receive free giveaways. Some other sponsors who have donated items for the auction include Pink Peloton, Don Hubbard Contracting Company, Rudy’s Taco Shop, RIDE Encinitas, Training Transition and Tri Coach Susanne Davis.

All proceeds produced by your pedal-pushing will benefit the Magdalena Ecke YMCA, which help children, families and seniors in need in our community and give them the ability to access YMCA programs through financial aid.

“This event began 10 years ago, raising $1,000 by passing a hat around a studio cycling class,” Figueiredo said. “It has grown exponentially and now raises over $40,000 for the community!”

Ready to push yourself to the limit for your community? Register online here for the bike-a-thon on Feb. 11 or simply donate. Spread the word and good luck to all cyclers!