CHAFE 150 ready to roll Saturday

Hundreds of cyclists, volunteers, family members and supporters will gather in the Sandpoint area Saturday for the 18th Annual CHAFE 150 Gran Fondo, one of North Idaho's premier charity cycling events.

The ride features multiple route options ranging from a family-friendly ride to the signature 150-mile challenge, bringing riders from across the region to enjoy the beauty of North Idaho while supporting local literacy and education programs through Sandpoint Rotary.

Organizers are asking motorists to be especially alert throughout the day as cyclists travel along area roads and highways. Riders will be participating on designated routes along Highway 95, Highway 2 and 200 and other roads marked with safety signage, and numerous volunteers, support vehicles, mechanics, medical personnel, and rest-stop crews will be stationed throughout the course to help ensure a safe and successful event.

"CHAFE is much more than a bike ride — it's a community celebration," said volunteer event organizer, Mariah Williams "You'll see not only cyclists on the road but also volunteers, families, and spectators cheering riders along the way. We ask everyone to slow down, stay patient, and help us create a safe environment for all."

Drivers are reminded to:

• Allow extra space when passing cyclists.

• Slow down in areas where riders and spectators are gathered.

• Be aware of support vehicles entering and exiting the route.

• Watch carefully at intersections and when turning.

• Remember that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicles on the roadway.

The event begins early Saturday morning and continues throughout the day, with riders returning to Sandpoint as they complete their routes. Organizers encourage residents to come out and cheer on participants as they tackle one of the most scenic rides in the Pacific Northwest. CHAFE has been consistently voted one of the most scenic and best supported charity rides in America.

There will be a pre-ride party today (Friday) from noon to 6 at Matchwood Brewing. Anyone wanting to register can do so there or the morning of the ride at City Beach.

Events begin at 5 a.m. Saturday at City Beach. There are staggered times for each ride that all start and stop at City Beach. The only exception is the 80-mile ride that starts in Troy. Cyclists and bikes are transported to the start after a bus ride from City Beach for the 80.

Following the bike rides, there will be an after-party at City Beach from 2 to 8 p.m. as riders cross the finish line. They will be cheered on by throngs of fans ringing bells, etc.

There will also be a drawing for the winning ticket in the highly sought after half-barrel of expert-selected whiskey. Tickets are still on sale from local Rotarians and will be sold up until the winner is announced late Saturday afternoon. Ticket sales are down this year, so the odds of winning are improved.

Since its inception in 2008, the CHAFE 150 has raised more than $1 million to support youth literacy and education initiatives in the Lake Pend Oreille School District through the "Every Student Graduates a Reader" program.

For more information about the event, routes, and schedules, visit CHAFE150.org.