Published: Monday, May 10, 2010
Mayor Don Plusquellic today joined with the LeBron James Family Foundation to announce that “LeBron’s State Farm King for Kids Bikeathon” will be held for the fifth year in Akron on Saturday, August 7.
The NBA’s 2010 MVP will lead cyclists on an eight-mile course through his hometown of Akron, and at the same time recognize and reward Akron-area children who have achieved academic success, improved their physical fitness and made important contributions to the community.
State Farm, the nation’s top insurer, is the title sponsor for the “King for Kids Bikeathon,” which is expected to attract several thousand riders, with proceeds from the event being donated to the Akron Area YMCA and the Akron Urban League.
In August 2009, proceeds from the event were donated by the LeBron James Family Foundation to the Akron Urban League and the Akron Area YMCA who received $65,000 each.
“This shows once again LeBron’s commitment to his hometown,” said Plusquellic. “He continues to be a role model for our youth - not only in terms of his accomplishments on the court, but off the court as well.”
More than 1,500 bike riders joined LeBron, members of the Cavaliers, and Chris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets in the 4th running of the Akron bicycle classic last year, and LeBron donated another 400 bicycles to children ages 9-14, nominated based on merit and character to ride in a special “Invitational” ride down Main Street in downtown Akron.
Once again this year, the Bikeathon is being produced by UMCA Sports, a communications solutions company that specializes in unique and creative marketing. It has produced events for companies such as NIKE, HBO, and Sega.
“UMCA Sports is honored to take part in such a rewarding experience for everyone involved, said Damon Haley, CEO of UMCA Sports, “and we salute LeBron and the LeBron James Family Foundation for their efforts in making the annual Bikeathon such an important event for everyone in Akron.”
The registration cost for the Bikeathon is $15 for individuals, $50 for teams and groups (up to a maximum of four) and $75 for families (up to a maximum of six in a family). All registered riders will receive a “King for Kids” T-shirt to be worn during the Bikeathon.
For more information or questions about the Bikeathon, please send an email to info@kingforkidsbikeathon.com.
