Cyclists pedal in Oshkosh Century to raise money for YMCA

OSHKOSH, WI – (WISS)- Rain or shine, more than 250 bicyclists from all over the region will be putting foot to pedal during the 3rd Annual Oshkosh Century Bike Ride on Sunday, June 23rd. The routes will take riders around Rush Lake to the southwest corner of Green Lake and back.

“We have four different routes. There is a 30, a 50, a 62 which happens to be a metric century, and then, of course, the full 100-mile Century,” said Mike Halron, the Volunteer Event Chair of the Oshkosh Century.

There will be rest stops along the way for cyclists to get rehydrated, check mechanics, visit restrooms, and get a bit of fuel to help them on their way. But even with the rest stops, Halron said cyclists need to be aware of their training and ability.

“You need to have a little bit of training. I wouldn’t recommend, especially for the Century, for weekend warriors to get out there and all of a sudden get on a bike and try to do a hundred miles,” said Halron. “Because it does take some training to do those longer miles…The Oshkosh Century and many of the organized rides, if they have a 30-mile or more ride. You should have a few miles under your belt or in the saddle, so to speak before you attempt a 30-mile ride. Otherwise, you might make it, but you might be uncomfortable the next day.”

Oshkosh Century helps YMCA

Halron was the driving force behind creating a century (the term for a 100-mile ride) in Oshkosh. Angie Flanigan, 20th Avenue YMCA Branch Executive, said he came to her with the idea, the volunteers, and the passion. From there, they created the Oshkosh Century event as a fundraiser for the YMCA in Oshkosh.

“We call it ‘Ride for a Reason.’ This event supports the Oshkosh Y annual campaign, which is an annual fundraiser that provides financial assistance to youth, families, and individuals in our community for child care, summer camp, memberships, and programs.” said Flanigan. “Just like any YMCA, we don’t turn anybody away for the inability to pay.”

Flanigan said the event is completely organized and staffed by volunteers. All riders get a poly blend T-shirt and a catered meal with beverages after the ride. To register to ride, visit OshkoshCentury.com.