Professor will participate
in 100-mile benefit ride
 By
David Brunner
Staff Writer
Two years ago, John Greene, professor of communications,
rode his bike for 47 days from California to Maine. On Sunday he will
remain much closer to home, but take to his bike again as he participates
with an estimated 500 other enthusiasts in the Wabash River Century
Ride.
"I am looking forward to this ride," Greene said,
"I try and ride one 100-mile ride each week so I am very excited about
Sunday."
The ride is an all day event — jointly sponsored
by the Wabash River Cycle Club and Family Services Inc. — with
five different routes with varying difficulties.
Rick McKinniss, publicity director for the Wabash
River Cycle Club, said the ride is an exciting event for the club.
"We hope that this will help to invite cyclists
and non-cyclists in the area to come and join our club and share in
the territory. We also are hoping that the event will be an effective
fund raiser for the club and for Family Services."
The routes begin and end at East Tipp Middle School
where participants can enjoy live entertainment and refreshments throughout
the day. The Century Ride is a 100-mile route beginning at 7 a.m. going
from East Tipp Middle School north to Delphi, Ind., through Stockwell,
Ind., and back to the middle school by the end of the day.
Organizers want to stress, however, that this is
only one of several options for cyclists and that the event is also
designed to accommodate children and families by providing two shorter
routes beginning at noon.
Sandy Laing, president of the Wabash River Cycle
Club, said this is the club's 22nd annual ride and the fourth year of
a partnership with Family Services.
"This partnership has really bloomed into a beautiful
relationship and has brought people of all ages and all experiences
from throughout the Lafayette area," she said.
The Century Ride once was thought of only as a
100-mile ride designed for the experienced rider, but has now expanded
offering shorter routes, becoming more family-oriented.
"This isn't just a bike club anymore, it is something
that everyone can do," Laing said.
The ride costs $20 and a helmet is required. Cyclists
interested in participating in the event are encouraged to contact the
Wabash River Cycle Club before Sunday by phone at 423-5361 or by visiting
the club's Web page, www.members.iquest.net/~billcul/century.htm.
The club is also accepting day-of registration
for this event.
"If you have a bike and have a helmet, you can
do it," Laing said.
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