1,600-kilometre bike ride works to end cycle of poverty

WINNIPEG — Habitat for Humanity’s Cycle of Hope riders hope to break the cycle of poverty one bike journey at a time.

The 22nd annual ride will take place on July 3-18, when an entourage of cyclists will use pedal power to ride from Niagara Falls to Winnipeg to raise funds to help build a home for a family in need.

“We already have 18 riders signed up but are recruiting more,” veteran rider Olenka Antymniuk said Tuesday on Global Winnipeg’s Morning News.”The maximum amount of riders is 50, so it will fill up fast.”

The 1,600-kilometre journey is fully assisted, which means riders have a support crew providing food, help with bike repairs and much-needed high fives on the way.

Antymniuk has been cycling the event since it began in 1994 and said there are a lot of riders who return every year. The ride is not only a bonding experience, but there’s a feeling of accomplishment at the finish line, she said.

“When you’re doing the ride and greeted by your family … it’s a feeling that stays with you forever.”

The Cycle of Hope 2015 goes from Niagara Falls to Winnipeg via Wisconsin Dells and the Mississippi. The registration cost is $425 or $475 after Jan. 24, and each rider must raise at least $2,500.

For more information, go to the Habitat For Humanity website.