Friday, June 14, 2002

Huge bike event coming to Union City

The upcoming Hank Aaron BMW Mayor's Bike Race at Shannon Mall in Union City is much more than a bike race.

It is a two-day event designed to attract all ages and those with all levels of interest in cycling. Organizers are promising there will be "something for everyone" and are hoping that avid cycling fans and the curious will come to watch ­ and shop.

Professional and amateur cyclists from throughout the Southeast will be competing for $12,000 in cash June 22-23. The multi-race event kicks off with the Hank Aaron BMW Circuit Race June 22 at 9 a.m. The race will be conducted behind Shannon Mall and will be led by a Hank Aaron BMW vehicle.

Next in the racing schedule is the Wal-Mart Individual Time Trial starting at 3 p.m. at the intersection of Ga. Highway 92 and South Fulton Parkway. On June 23, the Bicycles Unlimited Road Race, an endurance road race, will leave from the historic Union City Square in front of City Hall at 9 a.m.

Regarding the race, event organizer Mark Anderson of Bicycles Unlimited in Peachtree City said, "This is a spectator friendly event. It's great for those who regularly enjoy races and for those who have never been. It's more fun than NASCAR." Anderson's wife, Holly, will be racing.

A free children's Bicycle Safety Rodeo, sponsored by Shannon Mall and Radio Disney, will be held June 22 from noon to 3 p.m. for children 14 and under.

The first 100 children ages 12 and under attending the Rodeo will be given a free helmet. The Rodeo includes a bicycle safety "class" and mechanics will be on-hand to inspect bikes and helmet fittings.

Children will have an obstacle course to navigate through in order to "graduate" from the class and be able to race in the Kids Fun Lap to be held on the same course as the Pro race. To participate in the Rodeo children must bring their bicycle.

Buffalo's Café, located behind Shannon Mall, will be offering a special buffet dinner with pasta dinners and Buffalo wings Saturday evening. There will be entertainment, plus prizes will be given away throughout the evening.

The race, being held in the Shannon Mall area, has attracted the interest and support of numerous local businesses. Many will be showcasing their products in the vendor area near the course. Supporting sponsors include Wal-Mart, Bicycles Unlimited of Peachtree City, Heritage Volkswagen, Southside Medical, Comfort Inn Hotel, Shannon Mall, Gene Evans Ford, Barton's Chrysler, Buffalo's Café, Taste Bud's Restaurant, and Rich's.

Organizers have high expectations for the first Hank Aaron BMW Mayor's Bike Race in Union City.

"The day of the Hank Aaron BMW Mayor's Bike race in Union City will do several things," said Mayor Ralph Moore. "First, it will bring awareness to people about the sport of cycling. Second, the bike race will serve as another catalyst for bringing community together. Third, the business community will have an opportunity to benefit from the hundreds of visitors to our city. Lastly, the biking event will enable Union City to continue its leadership role in showcasing south Fulton County as the premiere destination place for the metro area. I am looking forward to an event that may reshape south Fulton County."

Meeting on a monthly basis, many in the Union City area and nearby Fayette County have worked to make the race a reality. Bobby Fronebarger, director of the Union City Department of Public Safety, Fire and Police, has been working closely with organizers to ensure that cyclists and attendees are safe during the event, and to promote the event.

"I have enjoyed working with a number of people throughout this project," he said. "Our business community, city employees, and citizens have put forth a great effort to meet the goals defined by Mayor Moore and Council. We are looking forward to the event on June 22 and 23. We invite everyone to come out and enjoy the races."

Union City Council members, Ken Bartholomew, volunteers from Southwest Hospice, Sam King and others have all given countless hours to make the race a success.

The event is part of the 2002 LAJORS.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to Southwest Christian Hospice, Children's Home at Christian City and the Bicycles Unlimited Juniors/Masters Cycling Team. For more information visit the official Web site at www.BicyclesUnl.com. Registration forms area also available at Shannon Mall and Bicycles Unlimited in Peachtree City.