Texas Cycling Classic will Benefit Katrina Evacuees

The Board of Directors of Elves & More will dedicate proceeds from the 2005 Texas Cycling Classic to benefit children impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Elves & More Founder David Moore said that 100 percent of the ride proceeds — and up to 50 percent of the funds raised from its 2005 Christmas Program — will be used to assist the thousands of children displaced by these disastrous storms.

Texas Bicycle Coalition welcomes the Texas Cycling Classic as a member event for the first time this year. One dollar of each entry fee will be donated to help the Coalition continue to advance bicycle access, safety and education throughout the state of Texas.

Elves & More, which seeks to bring hope to impoverished children, raises funds every fall to purchase, assemble and deliver brand new bicycles to children living in impoverished neighborhoods. Last year, nearly 21,000 new bicycles were distributed to children throughout the greater Houston area. This year the focus will increase to encompass the Hurricane Kids.

Elves & More has been giving Christmas gifts to disadvantaged Houston children though a neighborhood outreach effort since 2000. Over the years, it became apparent that bicycles were the most desired and valued gifts among the children. Bikes to these children made life better by providing an opportunity to take part in activities that lack of transportation otherwise made impossible. Bicycles help lift morale in neighborhoods with limited means.

In light of the recent tragedies of Katrina and Rita, Elves & More decided to focus efforts on delivering hope to children of families who have lost everything. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this year’s Texas Cycling Classic will benefit these children. Your participation in Texas Cycling Classic will enable Elves & More to purchase one bike for an underprivileged child. Additional contributions, both monetary and in-kind, are welcome.

The 2005 Texas Cycling Classic, hosted by the Woodlands Cycling Clubs, departs from Montgomery High School Sports Complex (22825 Hwy 105-West in Montgomery, TX) Saturday, October 8. The ride distances of 23, 42, 63, 87 or 110 miles will feature a staggered start, leaving between 7:00 and 10:00 in the morning. All routes will traverse scenic country roads in Montogomery and Grimes Counties. More information is available at www.elvesandmore.org.