American Lung Association of Alaska to host annual bike event

The American Lung Association of Alaska is organizing its Clean Air Challenge Bike Trek.

The annual event is a 126-mile ride along the scenic George Parks Highway.

Participants travel 63 miles by bike from the Willow Senior Center to the Mount McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, and then return to the Willow Senior Center the following day.

The two-day ride is scheduled for May 10-11. Lodging, as well as meals, are provided by the Mount McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. A series of fully-stocked rest areas are on the route.

The only cost is a $30 fee, which also ensures membership into the American Lung Association of Alaska. Participants are also asked to raise $400 in pledges by April 30.

Organizers expect 400 participants in the run.

Organizers also stress that the event is a run and not a race. The event is meant to be recreational for those who participate, in addition to being a fund raiser.

According to Mark Peterson, the development coordinator for the American Lung Association of Alaska, this event is the basis for his organization's revenue.

"This ride supports all of our programs," Peterson said.

Peterson noted several programs sponsored by the ALA that would not exist without the revenue from this event. The list includes the Asthma "Champ Camp", where children with asthma are counciled and taught how to cope with their disorder, the "NOT, Not On Tobacco" program, where the organization tutors teens on the harms of smoking and the "Heath House" which helps improve indoor air quality in both residences and business. Peterson said more than $200,000 is earned annually from the event.

"Over 90 percent of the funds stay in Alaska," Peterson added.

The ALA of Alaska has hosted the event for 18 years.

One Valley resident will participate in the event for the fourth time this year.

"You meet a lot of neat people," Gerry Milbrett said. "You ride to get stronger and you feel better about doing something."

For more information about the race contact Peterson at the American Lung Association of

Alaska.