Cycle into Spring with the Katie Ride

Whether you're a dedicated cyclist, a weekend cruiser, an occasional Spin class visitor or just enjoy experiencing nature's beauty and helping support a worthy cause, the Katie Ride for Life is a great way to kick off spring on Amelia Island. “Last year the Katie Ride attracted participants from 24 states around the country who made a weekend of the day," said Katie Caples Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Cook. "With cycling routes as long as 100 miles, Katie Ride participants experience the beauty and diversity of our gorgeous island and at the same time celebrate the inspiring stories of our cause -  raising awareness about organ donation and transplantation. It is a moving and powerful experience. There is absolutely nothing else like it." The ride and the foundation are named in honor of Katie Caples, who died at the age of 17 not long after registering as an organ donor. Her ultimate act of generosity saved the lives of five individuals aged 9 to 62 and further enhanced the lives of fifty others. There are several ways to ride (or walk):

• Katie Ride: 100, 62, 32, 18 mile and off-road rides (the 100-mile route covers nine islands.  The off-road route is approximately 6 miles round-trip.)
• Walk & Fun Run: travels thorough scenic Egans Creek Greenway.
• Katie Spin (a 5-hour marathon spin class offered in area cycling studios plus a Virtual Ride at First Coast YMCAs.)
• Family Fun Ride (enjoy the view as you pedal through Egans Creek Greenway.)

IF YOU GO:

• Sign up for the race of your choice.  And, if you haven't already, register to be an organ donor.
• The home base for the event is the Atlantic Recreation Center.  On-site registration and early check-in on Friday, April 17th from 3-8pm.  Registration (plus check-in and breakfast) opens at 6am on Saturday the 18th, and events begin at 7:45am.
• It's possible to rent a bike and other equipment from local bike shops.
• Proceeds support the Katie Caples Foundation's nationally recognized organ donor education program and its mission to increase the number of registered organ donors.  Cyclists (100, 62, 36, 18, and Off-Road) must raise a minimum of $125 (in addition to the registration fee) prior to check-in to participate. Walkers and fun runners must raise $50.
• Five hotels on Amelia Island and two close to Jacksonville airport are offering deals for Katie Ride Participants: Amelia Hotel at the Beach, Beachside Motel, Hampton Inn Amelia Island at Fernandina Beach, the Residence Inn Amelia Island, Seaside Amelia Inn, Courtyard Marriott Jacksonville Airport and Residence Inn by Mariott at Jacksonville Airport.  Call directly to secure the rate by mentioning that you are coming for the Katie Ride.