The La Porte Hospital Foundation 8th Annual Tour de La Porte bike, run and walk event to benefit local cancer patients will take place on Sunday, Aug. 23, at the new location of the La Porte County Fairgrounds, 2586 W. State Rd., La Porte.
Proceeds of Tour de La Porte benefit La Porte Hospital cancer patients and their families in need of financial assistance and screenings. In 2008, Tour de La Porte raised more than $28,000 at the community-spirited event.
Cyclists may choose between routes ranging from five- to 100-miles throughout scenic La Porte County. Runners and non-competitive walkers are invited to take part in the 5K route. Runners will be timed by T&H Timing using chip-timed technology with results posted online.
New to this year’s event is the Mini Tour Fun Run for children ages 4 to 8, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Children may participate in a 50-yard, 100-yard or 200-yard run for $1 each. In addition, participants may bring athletic shoes to be donated to the La Porte Community School Corporation. For the first time, cycling jerseys will be available at the event for purchase. The short-sleeve, club-cut jerseys made from 100 percent polyester moisture-wick fabric will be available in adult sizes for $70. Proceeds from the jersey sale also will benefit local cancer patients and their families.
Upon registration, participants will receive a free T-shirt while supplies last. Various awards will be distributed following the events. The Wellness Resource Center of La Porte Regional Health System will provide warm-up routines for children and adults, including the newest exercise class for kids, tweens and teens called Zumba® Kids. Music Men, Inc., also will provide entertainment.
Open registration/check-in and breakfast is available from 6 to 10 a.m. Runners and walkers must check-in no later than 7:30 a.m. as the 5K shotgun start will be at 8 a.m. Lunch will be provided by Al’s Supermarkets from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Emergency contacts and rescue vehicles, as well as refreshment/rest stops will be available along the routes until 3 p.m.
Costs for the bike race include: $25 for an adult before Aug. 8 and $30 for an adult after Aug. 8; $10 for a child ages 5 to 12. Costs for the 5K run and walk include: $20 for an adult before Aug. 8; $25 for an adult after Aug. 8; $10 for a child ages 5 to 12 and free for children ages 4 and younger. A combination package for the bike and 5K run and walk is available. Friends, families and co-workers also may go the distance for cancer care together by signing up as a team. Sponsorship opportunities also are available.
Established in 1978, the La Porte Hospital Foundation is the philanthropic arm of La Porte Regional Health System, encouraging charitable giving and supporting healthier communities and lifestyles.
For more information or to register, call (219) 326-2471 or (877) 265-4539. Online registration is available at www.laportehealth.org/foundation/events.