American Lung Association Issues Bike Trek to Shakertown Challenge

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LOUISVILLE KY (07/11/2014)(readMedia)-- The American Lung Association's annual Bike Trek to Shakertown, sponsored by Kindred Healthcare, is planned for September 13-15.

The charity challenges bicycle riders throughout the Commonwealth to join the event and help fight lung disease. Interested participants are encouraged to register now since space is limited and training rides are already underway. Cyclists can sign up for a 2- or 3-day tour.

The Bike Trek's round-trip route begins and ends in historic Harrodsburg, with the first night's stay at Danville's Pioneer Playhouse, where they will be treated to free massages, dinner and music.

Sunday's ride takes cyclists to Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. Upon arrival, the riders may spend the afternoon relaxing under the trees and touring the village's 19th century Shaker dwellings. Participants who registered for the 2-day tour will be shuttled back to the Harrodsburg starting point on Sunday afternoon. Three-day riders will have the added treat of a delicious "Shaker" dinner and evening entertainment.

According to Carolyn Embry, coordinator of the event, The Bike Trek to Shakertown is a fabulously fun cycling event with an element of challenge no matter the level of cycling ability.

"Whether it's conquering those 'gently rolling hills' or raising pledges for the cause, it takes some effort and determination," said Embry. "That is why the event attracts such a wonderful group of cyclists....charitable minded individuals with a can-do attitude, who realize that their efforts support those who struggle to breathe."

To make the challenge fun and hassle-free, the American Lung Association pulls out all the stops to accommodate Bike Trek participants. Beginners can choose the basic route of 30-35 miles each day, while those wanting a greater challenge will enjoy a 65-mile, moderately hilly ride on Saturday and a similar option on Sunday. Monday's routes will both be shorter.

Among the ride's amenities are experienced tour leaders, a gear truck for luggage, arrangements for meals and lodging, on-road repair service, roving support vans and rest stops with high-energy snacks.

Proceeds from the Bike Trek fund medical research, education, and advocacy for public policy that will advance the association's mission to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease.

To register for the Trek, each rider pays a $65 registration fee and agrees to raise pledges to fight lung disease. Participants can qualify for a wide array of prizes as they reach various pledge levels.

Co-sponsors of the event include the following: Rockcastle Regional Hospital and Respiratory Care Center; Stifel Nicolaus; Baptist Health Lexington; Byerly Ford; Bicycle Sport; Pedal the Planet; WAVE-TV, New Country Q103.1, 107.7 The Eagle, Lite 106.9 (Louisville media); WKYT-TV, 590 WVLK, Z-ROCK 103, and NASH FM 92.9 (Lexington media).

The American Lung Association urges bicycle riders to "accept the challenge, register for the Bike Trek and help end the cycle of lung disease."

For more information about the Bike Trek to Shakertown, including pre-Trek information programs, training rides and corporate teams, call the American Lung Association at 1-877-893-5864, visit the website at www.BikeTrektoShakertown.org and follow us on Facebook.

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