On the morning of Sunday, July 12, 2009, the 37th annual Bike-a-thon will unite teams of cancer survivors, family and friends—including cyclists of all ages and levels—to help raise $2 million for the American Cancer Society’s research, education, advocacy and patient service programs in the Philadelphia area. At 6:55 am, the 64.6-mile route begins with the inspiring tradition of hundreds of cancer survivors crossing the Ben Franklin Bridge to the Rocky theme song followed closely by the remaining riders.

For less experienced cyclists, two alternate start-points are offered closer to the finish: a 21.1-mile course starts in Hammonton, N.J. with a rolling start between 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. and a more challenging 53.5-mile course starts at Cherry Hill East High School at 7:30 a.m. For more experienced riders, a 93.5-mile century loop course is also available (must start at Ben Franklin Bridge for this course).

The ride will conclude at Buena Vista Camping Park in Buena, N.J., where participants can enjoy the following attractions: a gigantic waterslide; swimming; fishing and paddle boating in a private lake; and 18-hole miniature golf course. Two survivor ceremonies will also take place during the endpoint celebration, and all registered riders will receive lunch and refreshments.

For more information about the American Cancer Society’s Bike-a-thon, call 215.985.5401, visit www.acsbike.org or e-mail Allison.Kostiuk@cancer.org.