By Michael V. Cusenza
Avid cyclists joined weekend wheel-warriors on Saturday morning to push their pedals and raise funds for two worthy causes at the third annual Loop Bike Ride in Howard Beach.
Proceeds from the 20-mile ride go to the New York Families for Autistic Children Foundation and the JDRF Diabetes Foundation.
“It started as a way to raise money for kids with autism and JDRF. Every year it gets a little better,” said NYFAC President and CEO Andrew Baumann. “We appreciate everybody that participates and helps to make this ride a huge success for the past three years.”
Asked what projects or programs the Loop proceeds will help fund, Baumann said, “Anything that’s over and above what we get funded for.”
Each year, the ride begins and ends at the NYFAC building on Cross Bay Boulevard near 164th Avenue. Once they’ve completed the trek through the concrete jungle, competitors are treated to a “thank you” barbecue in the NYFAC parking lot featuring burgers, hot dogs and a DJ.
“I’m just trying to help bring about a cure by doing my small part,” said JDRF supporter Henry Jefferson of Rockaway Park, who finished in first place.
For Pablo Marquez, a type-II diabetic from Far Rockaway, the Loop seems to take on an even greater significance each summer.
“I look forward every year to this event,” said Marquez, who took second place.
The importance of the Loop, and other neighborhood fundraising endeavors, is not lost on Baumann.
“Every event we do,” he said, “even if we make a dollar, it’s successful.”
We apologize for having misprinted this story last week.
