Each year for the past 23 years, between 750 and 1000 riders of all ages and abilities set out on their bicycles to ride one of five supported routes as part of the Lilac Century and Family Fun Ride. Riders range from triathletes and long-distance cyclists to families with kids. The event and all of the rides start at Spokane Falls Community College on Sunday, April 24. Distances and start times include:
- 100 mile (Start time 6:45-7:30 a.m.)
- 66 mile (Start time 7:45-8:30 a.m.)
- 50 mile (Start time 8:45-9:30 a.m.)
- 25 mile (Start time 10:30 a.m.)
- 15 mile / 15 mile family ride (Start time 10:30 a.m.)
The 100-mile ride and part of the 50-mile ride will travel along the west side of the Spokane River, the Long Lake area and through the West Plains area. The 66-mile route follows the Centennial Trail to Nine Mile, around Long Lake, and then back to Nine Mile and SFCC. The 15 and 25-mile family rides follow the Aubrey L. White Parkway on the west side of the Spokane River to the Seven Mile or Nine Mile area and back. Check out maps for each of the routes and find registration information at North Division Bike Shop online here. Each ride includes food stops with healthy snacks and beverages. All riders also take home a long sleeve t-shirt and enjoy a baked potato meal at the end of the event. The route is monitored by volunteers and includes technical and mechanical support by North Division Bicycle Shop.
All of the proceeds benefit Spokane Aurora Northwest Rotary’s efforts to help others in our local community and around the world. Lilaccentury.com
