By Michelle Colesanti
As part of the excitement leading up to St. Stephen Catholic Church’s annual Spring Jubilee, its Life Teen youth program will hold its annual Jubilee Cycle Fest for riders of all skill levels. Originating from the Shoppes at Osprey Fishhawk, located at 15258 Fishhawk Blvd., in Lithia, the Cycle Fest will take place on Saturday, April 6.
The family event will feature police supervision, experienced ride marshals, vehicle assistance for breakdowns, rest stops with snacks and drinks, free lunch for cyclists, T-shirt and goodie bags, first aid station, and vendor booth area.
Three exciting rides will take place throughout southern Hillsborough County: a 10-Mile Fun Ride departing at 9 a.m. (registration $25), a 25-Mile Intermediate Ride departing at 8:30 a.m. (registration $30) and a 62-Mile Metric Century Advanced Ride departing at 8 a.m. ($35 registration fee).
Jubilee Cycle Fest Organizer Terry Holden said, “This is our fourth year for the Jubilee Cycle Fest, and we expect it to be our best one yet. We’ve added a third ride this year, which many cyclists had been asking for. So, in addition to the 10-mile Fun Ride, which is popular for the beginners, we’re doing a 25-mile ride for those who want a bigger challenge, and now a 62-mile Metric Century, which is what the avid cyclists have been wanting. So, there really is something for everyone (16 and older) in terms of your cycling ability.”
Spirit FM Radio will be on-site playing some great music, and local business sponsors will offer plenty for family members and spectators to see and do.
You can register online in advance registration at http://ststephen catholic.org/JubileeCycleFest. On the day of the event, registration and check-in will begin at 7 a.m. (add $5 for same day registration). Festivities continue throughout each ride and conclude by 12 Noon. All cyclists are required to be 16 years or older, wear an approved helmet and have a signed waiver to participate.
All proceeds benefit the young people of the St. Stephen Catholic Church Life Teen program, which encourages teens to be a new generation of leaders who will serve their church, community, and the world. Holden has two older daughters who belonged to Life Teen in the past and believes that it was a blessing and wonderful experience for his daughters, and that it clearly made a great impact in their lives. He said, “Even though we don’t personally have a teen in the youth group right now, we realize how important it is, and the impact it makes on the lives of the teens who participate in the program.”
For additional information, please visit the official website at http://ststephencatholic.org/JubileeCycleFest or email terryholden@tampabay.rr.com.
