DENVER, CO (BRAIN) Friday August 10 2012 4:21 PM MT—As of Thursday, the National Bike Challenge, a nationwide initiative to inspire Americans to ride, has engaged nearly 30,000 bicyclists and has surpassed its goal of logging 10 million miles. The competition, which kicked off in May, ends August 31.
"We knew 10 million miles was an ambitious goal but… we knew it was possible," said Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists. "Reaching this milestone is a true testament to the many benefits of biking and the growing number of Americans who are riding their bikes for fun, fitness and transportation."
Sponsored by the Kimberly-Clark Corporation, the League of American Bicyclists, Endomondo and Bikes Belong, the National Bike Challenge is a friendly, online competition in which cyclists across the nation log their miles, connect with fellow riders and compete for prizes. Thus far participants from all 50 states have collectively burned more than 250 million calories, and more than 300 riders have won prizes in monthly drawings, including new bikes from Trek and Specialized.
Amy Schiebel, a Denver resident and recent bike commuter convert, logged the three miles that pushed the initiative past its goal with three weeks still left in the competition. Schiebel’s enthusiasm for riding serves as a glowing recommendation for the initiative.
“I always like a friendly bike competition and love that Endomondo tracks everything for me,” said Schiebel. “It’s fun to see so many people outdoors, getting in shape and living healthier lives.”
To get involved in the challenge, sign up at nationalbikechallenge.org or visit facebook.com/nationalbikechallenge for more information.
—Marisa Shimano
