Proceeds will support recreational programs for people with developmental disabilities
Registration has opened for the third annual Owl Ride, Omaha's nighttime urban cycling adventure. The unique recreational bike ride set for Saturday, July 14 is the largest annual night bicycle ride between Chicago and Denver.
Log on to owlride.org to register and find more information. The cost to register is $30 for individuals and $60 for families.
Last year, more than 2,000 participants turned out for the Owl Ride, double the number for the inaugural year. Even more riders are expected to take this year’s non-competitive tour through Omaha’s vibrant metro core. The 2012 ride starts at 11 p.m. at Omaha's riverfront and follows a 16-mile course through downtown, Midtown, Dundee, Aksarben, Field Club and the Old Market, with “Owl perch’’ stops and support along the way. A shorter 7-mile short-cut course is also available, making the Owl Ride a fun, active experience for riders of all ages and abilities.
Corporations and clubs are encouraged to sign up teams. In 2011, the Dundee Chain Gang won the traveling trophy that goes to the largest Owl Ride team.
All cyclists must be equipped with, at a minimum, front lights and rear red reflectors, as required by state law for riding after dark, and helmets are also required. In past years, bicycle decorations ranging from battery-powered holiday lights to custom neon creations enhanced the atmosphere of the ride. A Bright Bike Contest will be held once again.
The ride benefits the Meyer Foundation for Disabilities, which supports social and recreational programs for people with developmental disabilities in the Omaha metro area. MFD, a non-profit led and run by volunteers, funds community programs operated by the professional staff of the renowned Munroe-Meyer Institute at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Go to omahadisabilities.org to learn more about MFD's work and mission.
Major sponsors of the Owl Ride include WOWT-TV, Metro Health Services Federal Credit Union, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, The Nebraska Medical Center, the Munroe-Meyer Institute, Sodexo, Oxide Design, Lucky Bucket Brewing Co., Sports Authority, Union Pacific, Jones Bros. Cupcakes, Whole Foods and the Cline Williams law firm.
Munroe-Meyer Institute is committed to unlocking the potential of children and adults with developmental disabilities and genetic disorders through exceptional patient care, education and research. MMI health care providers annually diagnose and treat more than 10,000 children and adults with special needs.
Through world-class research and patient care, UNMC generates breakthroughs that make life better for people throughout Nebraska and beyond. Its education programs train more health professionals than any other institution in the state. Learn more at unmc.edu.