Fenner Ride to benefit two local causes

MILTON — More than 400 cyclists from around the region are expected to participate in the annual Fenner Ride on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 a.m. in Milton.

This year’s Fenner Ride was selected to be part of the Alabama Backroads Century Ride Series. The Fenner Ride purportedly is the only event in Florida selected to join the 13-race series.

The event, benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, begins at the Guy Thompson Community Center at 5629 Byrom St., Milton. A portion of the ride will be on the Blackwater State Heritage Trail, selected as one of Florida's most scenic greenways. The ride routes are broken down into distances of 18, 42, 62 and 100 miles.

“The Fenner Ride is a perfect way to enjoy the beautiful local scenery and give to a meaningful cause,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida president and CEO Paula Shell. “We are thrilled that the Fenner Ride was the only Florida race selected to join the Alabama Backroads Century Ride Series. We expect an increase in registrations with this prestigious partnership."

Early-registration is $45 until Oct. 18; the cost is $55 thereafter, and includes fully supported rest stops, limited sag support, and a post-ride meal. Registration on the day of the ride begins 6:30 a.m. at the Guy Thompson Community Center. Participants can register at www.bbbsnwfl.org/fennerride or by contacting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida at 433-5437.

Proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida and the Blackwater Heritage Trail Citizens Support Organization. Fenner Ride is in conjunction with the Beaches to Woodlands Tour in Santa Rosa County and the West Florida Wheelmen.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida has provided one-to-one youth service for 28 years. 

The nonprofit organization offers caring adult mentors to children ages 6 to 18. Their mission is to provide children facing adversity with "strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever," a media release states. 

Last year, Big Brothers Big Sisters served 650 children in Northwest Florida.

FYI

This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Fenner Ride to benefit two local causes