Local cyclists to ride 150 miles to battle childhood cancer

PITTSBURGH — One week before registration officially opens, a Pittsburgh area bike ride to battle childhood cancer is nearly sold-out.

The Inaugural Xpedition G.A.P. Ride, Aug. 31 - Sept. 2, 2013, allows cyclists to experience 150 miles of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Md.  The event will kick-off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Participants must each raise a minimum of $100.  All proceeds will go to five area families currently facing childhood cancer, to help with expenses such as meals, lodging, gas and laundry.

Participation is limited to 75 cyclists and as of Feb. 20, 63 riders had pre-registered.  Registration opens March 1st.

The GAP rail-trail currently offers 141 miles of hiking and biking between Cumberland, Md., and Homestead, Pa. In Cumberland, the GAP joins the C&O Canal Towpath, creating a continuous trail experience, 325 miles long, to Washington, DC.

The final mile from Homestead to Pittsburgh is still under construction and is set to be completed this summer.

To register for the Xpedition G.A.P. Ride click here.

WPXI