Bike ride aids Darrington students
Published 10:37 pm Wednesday, August 18, 2010
DARRINGTON — Facing painful budget cuts and fee increases for students, the Darrington School District needs some help.
That’s the assessment of Linn Brooks, the district’s athletic coordinator. To help students from cash-strapped families cover increased costs to play sports and participate in school activities, she’s organized a fundraiser that goes beyond the typical bake sale.
She’s planned a 28-mile bike ride, complete with catered lunch, snacks and live bluegrass music.
The Whitehorse to Whitechuck Ride is scheduled for Sept. 12. The course starts at the Darrington Bluegrass Grounds on Highway 530 and winds through the town of Darrington, along paved roads up Mountain Loop Highway to Whitechuck Campground.
For those who don’t want to cycle 28 miles, 12- and 22-mile courses are available. There’s also a 30-mile ride with 10 miles of “stand on your pedals” backcountry biking.
The courses pass through the North Cascade mountains, by waterfalls, Brooks said.
Local businesses and organizations are donating time, goods and services to the event.
Vendors are welcome to set up shop at the Darrington Bluegrass Grounds from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“It’s going to be a wonderful way to hopefully make some revenue for the kids up here,” she said. “We’re using the natural resources and the wonderful things that are all around us.”
Kaitlin Manry: 425-339-3292, kmanry@heraldnet.com.
Join the fun
Registration for the Whitehorse to Whitechuck Ride is $40 for adults, $25 for children 12 and under, or $100 for a family of two adults and two children. The fees include a barbecue lunch, snacks along the course and a T-shirt.
For more information or to register, go to www.dsd.k12.wa.us/ride.htm, www.active.com or call 360-436-1323.
