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Press Release

For Immediate Release

2016/07/27

Wichita is home to one of the largest fundraising bike rides in Kansas

Wichita is home to one of the largest fundraising bike rides in Kansas. Wichita, Kan.—Heartspring will host the 13th Annual PedalFest bike ride, one of the largest fundraising bike rides in Kansas, on Saturday, Aug. 20 on its campus in east Wichita. Proceeds from the event will benefit local children with special needs who receive therapies and services at Heartspring Pediatric Services. The funds raised allow these children access to the life-changing therapies they need for a more independent life.

August is quickly approaching which means Heartspring and the PedalFest riders are “gearing up to give back” for one of the largest fundraising bike rides in Kansas in just a couple of weeks. PedalFest boasts one of the top spots in both numbers of riders, more than 600 at the 2015 event, and in total funds raised, more than $70,000 in 2015. PedalFest has seen exponential growth since the first event in 2004, which had less than 100 riders, to now expecting more than 700 riders at the 2016 event.

“The support shown by the PedalFest riders and volunteers is unparalleled, with many being a part of our event since the first ride in 2004. They truly understand the difference they are making in the lives of children with special needs and continually amaze us with their dedication to the children. These participants are giving children the opportunity to walk, talk or even tell their parents ‘I love you’ for the first time,” said Hannah Henning, Heartspring special events coordinator.

PedalFest is a fully supported ride with Support and Gear (SAG) stops on every route. Participants can choose from a 100K, 50K, 25K and 5K Family Ride. There is a route for every level of cyclist. Registration fees vary by the route distance, and prices increase on Aug.1 for all rides except the 5K Family Ride. In addition to the T-shirt all registrants receive, the first 100 children to arrive at PedalFest will receive a free helmet, courtesy of Safe Kids Wichita Area.

For more information on how to “Gear Up to Give Back” and be a part of Heartspring’s 13th Annual PedalFest bike ride, visit www.pedalfest.org.

Heartspring is a worldwide center for children with special needs. The residential school, outpatient pediatric services, and autism services program aim to help children of all ages succeed by gaining the skills necessary for a more independent lifestyle. More information at www.heartspring.org.