From the American Lung Association in Washington:

Flat and fast; a cyclist’s dream course! The American Lung Association announces the inaugural “Reach the Beach” Washington ride on September 30, 2017. The course will take riders through the gorgeous countryside of Lacey – 102 miles, Olympia – 81 miles, Elma – 44 miles, and Cosmopolis – 25 miles, leading along the scenic oceanfront to the finish line celebration in Westport. Because of the distance options, Reach the Beach is ideal for serious cyclists, recreational cyclists and families.

Many cyclists will be riding in honor or memory of those whose lives have been touched by lung disease, COPD and asthma. Reach the Beach Washington is more than just a fundraiser. The event will bring people and communities together from across the Pacific Northwest.

Reach The Beach Washington is modeled after the successful annual Reach The Beach Oregon, which raised more than $750,000 this past year for lung disease research. “The ride in Oregon is known as the best supported ride in the Northwest and I can’t wait to bring this same level of cycling to Washington,” said Season Oltman, Executive Director for the American Lung Association in Washington. “There are many wonderful elements that make Reach the Beach so well known. The beautiful route, the multiple distance options, the party at the finish line, but we are best known for the high level of support we provide the riders.”

The ride will have mechanics at all 4 start locations and 4 additional rest stops along the route along with on course ride-along mechanics, SAG vehicles, medical support and a well-marked course. There will also be 2 full lunch stops and a delicious dinner at the finish line, in addition to electrolytes, water and other snacks throughout the course.

The registration fee is $45. Riders must also fundraise or donate an additional $125 to ride. This year, those who raise $150 will receive a long-sleeved Reach the Beach shirt, those who raise $300 will get an official Reach the Beach cycling jersey and those that raise $550 will receive an official Reach The Beach cycling jacket. Participants who raise $3,000 or more will receive a free 2018 Reach the Beach Oregon pass and hotel room. Because of the variety of distance options, Reach the Beach is for serious cyclists as well as recreational ones, including families. For more information visit www.reachthebeachwa.org