The National Ability Center is holding its 20th annual Summit Challenge on Aug. 29. The challenge of this bike ride isn’t to finish first, but to raise funds for the center. Early registration ends Aug. 1 for the center’s largest summer event. Development and Events Manager Madison Lambdin s aid she encourages early signups because of the ride’s popularity. “One of the things I love most about the National Ability Center is that we create moments people never thought were possible,” Lambdin said. “Whether it’s someone’s first time riding a bike, skiing or simply feeling included, those moments stay with them forever, and Summit Challenge helps make those moments possible.” The funds raised through the challenge allow the National Ability Center to continue its work in providing adaptive and accessible recreation. Its goal this year is to raise $185,000 through registration and donations.  Lambdin said registering for the ride with a team is one of the best ways to fundraise. “People are often surprised by how willing friends and family are to support a cause they care about,” Lambdin said. “Sharing why you’re riding and why the National Ability Center matters to you can go a long way.” While the competition of the Summit Challenge is in fundraising rather than finish times, the ride will still have many signature race-day features. Names will be announced as riders cross the finish line, custom socks are included with registration and community organized rest stops will support riders throughout the course.  Riders of all abilities will have their choice of eight paved routes exploring Summit County. They range in distance from a one-mile Discovery Loop, planned with families in mind, to a 100-mile route that goes through Wolf Creek Ranch in Woodland.  “We just want to make sure that there’s something for everyone,” Lambdin said. “The goal is to get everyone … to enjoy this ride with their friends or their family, and enjoy the community members.” Adaptive bikes are available on loan from the National Ability Center for those who want to participate but may not have the equipment themselves. The center can also direct riders to rental options for traditional bikes. On the day of the Summit Challenge, the National Ability Center will transform into a vendor village so everyone in the community can be a part of the festivities, not just ride participants. To sign up, visit summitchallenge100.org. The post National Ability Center bike race fundraiser returns for 20th year appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less