NORTHAMPTON – Local bicyclists will go all in for the sixth annual Pedal Poker Run at Look Memorial Park on Sunday.
The event is a game where bicyclists pick up five cards at different locations along a ride through the autumn scenery. Participants can choose a 10-mile, 26-mile, or 45-mile ride.
Proceeds benefit the Valley Community Development Corp., a nonprofit agency at 30 Market St. in Northampton that develops affordable housing, provides technical assistance to small businesses and entrepreneurs and sponsors first-time home-buyer workshops. It primarily serves Northampton, Easthampton, Amherst and Hadley.
“It’s a fun day, everybody has a great time,” said Julia Zegarra, communications specialist for the event. “The riders have a blast whether they’re doing the short or long ride, and there’s food and beer afterwards.”
The deadline to sign up online is noon Friday, and registering in person the day of the event will be offered for a slightly higher fee.
The 45-mile ride costs $60 and starts at 10 a.m. Registration Sunday opens at 9 a.m.
The 26-mile ride costs $35 and is scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m. Those who want to register Sunday may do so after 10:30 a.m.
The 10-mile ride, which costs $35, should start around noon, with registration opening at 11 a.m.
Preregistration includes free entry to Look Park. The event includes food provided by Bistro Bus, beer from Berkshire Brewing Co., massages from Dianne Marchand of Ease Bodywork, a SAG wagon following riders provided by Speed & Sprocket Cycle Works of Holyoke, and bike repair by Pedal People.
Last year’s event had around 130 participants, according to Zegarra, and she said that about the same number is expected this year.
There is no minimum age for participants, and the bicyclist with the best hand from each race wins a prize. The grand prize winner will receive a Berkshire County getaway package valued at $500.
People are required to turn in their scorecards by 2 p.m. to be eligible for prizes.
According to Zegarra, the event is not about who finishes first because organizers want it to be an enjoyable ride, rather than a competitive race.
She said people should participate not only because it’s fun, but also to support a great cause.
“It’s good for kids to see their parents supporting a cause they believe in,” said Zegarra.
The event raised $25,000 last year for the Valley CDC.
For more information, please call Zegarra at 413-586-5855, Ext. 170, email her at jz@valleycdc.com or visit www.valleycdc.com.