The Benzie Human Services Collaborative
is pleased to announce
The 3rd Annual
Wheels4Wellness
A Fundraiser for Benzie Human Services Collaborative Programs and Services
Frequently Asked Questions and Rules
Insurance
The “Wheels4Wellness” (W4W) fundraising bicycle ride will be covered by insurance through Michigan State University’s Extension office. This will be one-day event insurance and will cover liability but not medical insurance. As a participant, you will also be required to sign a Waiver of Liability form, for the protection of all who are putting on this event. The Waiver will state that you will in no way hold Endoman Promotions, the Benzie Human Services Collaborative, MSUE, it’s sponsors, venues, municipalities, associated personnel, or anyone or thing associated with the event, responsible in case of an accident, injury or death. Your agreeing to this provision allows us to continue to hold this great event. Please be assured that SAFETY is our number one priority, with fun for all being a close second.
Pre-event Packet Pickup:
Packet pickup will be held Saturday morning from 8:30-9:15 a.m. in the Beulah Park. Your packets will contain a T-shirt (if you pre-registered in time, or if there are any left over), course map, sponsor list and an energy bar.
Equipment
What kind of bike do I need for the W4W?
Any kind! Just try to remember your limits and the limits of the bike you’re riding. If you plan to ride the Betsie Valley Trail out of Beulah, you’ll want a bike with ‘fatter’ tires due to the hard packed gravel you’ll encounter for the first two miles. If you’re riding a road-specific bike, you’ll want to consider the Alternate Route described below.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
There is no helmet law for cyclists, but we strongly encourage you to wear one.
Route
What will the route be?
We will be going clockwise around Crystal Lake from Beulah, which means heading west on the Betsie Valley Trail toward Frankfort. Going this direction will allow riders to go as far as they want, by either choosing an “out-and-back” (for example, riding to Frankfort then back again to Beulah on the Trail), or by going all the way around Crystal lake. If you choose to continue around the lake, take any road that connects with M-22 north out of Frankfort until you get to “North Shore” heading east back to Beulah.
ALTERNATE ROUTE FOR “ROADIES”
Skinny tire guys and gals won’t like the two miles of gravel on the trail as it heads out of Beulah ~SO~ those with the 23c tires can go down Crystal Avenue, then up Lake Street (or one of the other paved roads that lead up to M-115), then west on that highway for about a mile, to Mollineaux. A mile or so down Mollineaux, the Trail can be picked up in all its paved glory. It’s a beautiful ride there into Frankfort but you’ll miss riding along the shore of Crystal Lake.
Do I have to ride ALL the way around the lake?
Nope. This is a fundraiser, so the amount of time you spend on your bike is totally up to you. But remember: you may experience a greater sense of satisfaction the farther you go!
Can I bring my child(ren)?
Absolutely! We hope to make this into a great family event.
Can I tow my child behind me in a carrier (and maybe even a pet)?
Yes.
Aid
Will there be water/food stations along the route?
Yes, there will be two and maybe three, water stations along the way. The first will be at the intersection of the Trail and Mollineaux. The second will be at the Frankfort Library just after you get off the Betsie Valley Trail. And the third will be at the intersection of North Shore and M22. Volunteers will be there to assist you.
Will there be support people out on the route?
Yes. There will be a couple of guys and gals riding along to give aid for minor repairs, or to report accidents/injuries. There will also be a support vehicle bringing up the rear in case anyone needs transportation (emergencies only!).
Post-Event
What’s going on after we get back to Beulah?
Lots! In addition to the water, Gatorade, fruits and snacks that will be made available courtesy of our sponsors, the Beulah Boosters are hosting a FREE picnic cook out to anyone who comes to the park, bike riders included! The food/water and picnic will be available from around 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Rain Date
What if it rains?
We will choose a rain date, hopefully as soon as possible, and announce it on the website, endomanpromotions.com.
