Explore Annandale via bike at Cycle Fest

Cycle Fest in 2012. [JCCNV photo]

Explore the area from a bicycle, while meeting other bike riders, getting some exercise, enjoying the fall weather, and supporting good causes.

That’s the objective of the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia’s fifth annual Cycle Fest on Sunday, Sept. 14. The community bike ride is open to anyone comfortable riding on roads with traffic. The suggested minimum age is 12.

This year’s ride will benefit the Wounded Warriors Project and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA).

There are four different bicycling options ranging from an 11-mile easy cruise winding through Fairfax and Annandale to an extremely challenging 62-mile course with 3,000 feet of climbing for experienced riders that covers the Custis, George Washington, Four Mile, and W&OD trails. In between, there are 30-mile and 50-mile routes.

All the rides start at the JCCNV, 8900 Little River Turnpike, at 7:30 a.m. Registration begins at 7 a.m.

For people registering online before Sept. 4, the basic fee is $45. Registration fees are $40 for JCCNV members, $20 for active military and first responders, and $36 for children ages 12-16, and $32 for children who are JCCNV members. After the Sept. 4, the fees rise to $50, $45 for members, and $40 for children.

Registration includes giveaways, rest stops with treats, mechanical support, and light food and entertainment at the end of the rides.

Last year, 105 Cycle Fest riders raised more than $4,500, says Paula Cole, director of sports, fitness and aquatics at the JCCNV. “Each year, Cycle Fest has grown in popularity,” she says. “There are challenging rides for all cycling levels that really showcase the beauty of Fairfax. It’s a great community event that draws riders from all across Northern Virginia.”