When bike riders from around northeast Ohio
gather in Downtown Akron on June 25 for the inaugural Lebron’s King for Kids
Bikeathon, they will be joined by a select group of children, ages 8 to 11, who will
be recognized for their deeds of good citizenship."Akron is so proud of LeBron
James’ achievements on and off the basketball court," says Akron Mayor Don
Plusquellic, "that we want youngsters from the city to be a part of his first charity
fundraiser."
A special Children’s Bike Ride will feature 200 youngsters who will be selected by
administrators from Akron’s Recreation Bureau and the Akron Metropolitan Housing
Authority. Children to be selected will have been active in programs at one of the
city’s 13 recreation centers or be an AMHA resident. All will have demonstrated good
citizenship in their daily lives.
"LeBron has always had a special connection with kids and he will continue to
support and encourage them to succeed," said Bikeathon executive director Chris
Dennis. "Because the Bikeathon is primarily benefiting youth and families in this
community, it is appropriate to get children involved in the ride with LeBron."
LeBron James will be the official "starter" of the Children’s Ride which
will begin at 10:00 a.m. at Canal Park. The one mile route will run north on Main St. to
the Summacare Building at Market St. before returning south on Main Street to Canal Park.
"The James Family Foundation will make sure that every one of these young riders
has a bicycle and a helmet," said Dennis. "This should be a memorable day for
them."
Following the ride, the children will join the King for Kids Community Celebration at
Lock 3 Park where they will be able to watch the start of the Bikeathon at 11:00 a.m.
As many as 2,000 riders ages 14 and up will join "King James" and other
celebrity guests on the eight-mile Bikeathon, beginning at 11 a.m. on June 25th
to benefit the James Family Foundation. Proceeds will be donated to the Akron Area YMCA
and Akron Urban League. Children from 12-14 can also participate if accompanied by an
adult (aged 21 and over).
There is a $25 registration fee to participate in the Bikeathon. All riders must wear a
helmet and are encouraged to raise at least $100 in pledges to receive additional prizes.
Individuals and teams can participate and LeBron will present awards to those who raise
the most money. Registration information is available at the city’s 13 recreation
centers, Akron Area YMCA branches, and the Akron Urban League. Riders can also register
online at www.lebronfoundation.org.
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