High school students in historically underrepresented groups will be the focus on Saturday, April 17, as cyclists, walkers and runners have a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Registration for the College of Education’s fifth annual Cycle-Thon and fun run/walk begins at 9 a.m. at Sunset Park on McKee Street in State College. The event starts at 10 a.m., and the family-friendly festivities will take place until 2 p.m. The main event features a 13 1/2 mile bike ride and a 5 kilometer walk/run.
After the ride/walk/run, there will be a picnic in the Sunset Park pavilion with free activities for everyone. Participants can bring a lunch or purchase a boxed lunch from Honeybaked Ham and enjoy the incredible collection of bicycles that Bob Swaim has accumulated over the years. Participants will have the opportunity to take a ride on the "conference bike," a seven-passenger tricycle. The Nittany Lion mascot will be on hand as well.
Proceeds from Cycle-Thon benefit the Summer College Opportunity Program in Education (SCOPE). SCOPE is a four-week initiative for rising high school juniors in historically underrepresented groups who are interested in a career in teaching, counseling, special education, rehabilitation or educational administration. The program addresses areas including academic and study skills, admission criteria/application processes, financial aid, leadership, community service, cultural-affirmation and career and personal development through a nurturing environment.
Cycle-Thon helps pay for the students' tuition and room and board at University Park. Registration is $25 for adults and nonstudents, $20 for college students, $15 for K-12 students. Children five and under can participate for free.