The American Lung Association in Florida will hold its third annual Gulf Coast Bike Trek on Saturday, October 18. The event, which is focused on supporting children’s lung health, will start this year at John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park and feature three routes along the Pinellas Trail through Dunedin and Tarpon Springs.
“Pediatric pulmonary diseases, like childhood asthma and RSV, take a toll on our most vulnerable. Here in Tampa, nearly 40,000 children have been diagnosed with asthma, which is one of the most common illness-related reasons kids miss school,” said David Oras, Gulf Coast Bike Trek event chair, member of the Lung Association’s Gulf Coast Leadership Board and IT Director at Raymond James. “With the Gulf Coast Bike Trek, we’re committed to raising awareness of pediatric lung health and are inviting our Tampa Bay community to join us in making every mile count.”
The ride is open to cyclists of all experience levels and includes a 62-mile metric century route for experienced riders, a 40-mile option for those seeking adventure, and a 10-mile course suitable for families and children. Participants can expect support throughout the ride with rest stops provided along each route. The event concludes with a gathering that features food and music.
Registration costs $25 for the family ride and $40 for the longer rides. All participants are required to meet a fundraising minimum of $200. According to organizers, ninety cents of every dollar raised will go toward research, education programs, and other initiatives related to lung health. More details about registration can be found at GulfCoastBikeTrek.org.
Raymond James & Associates clarified its role as an employer of one of the event organizers but stated it does not endorse or have an affiliation with The American Lung Association or its services.
