By By Lisa Tindell
news editor
An overcast sky was a welcome good morning to 28 riders embarking on a nearly 30-mile ride to benefit the Escambia County Habitat for Humanity organization.
About three and a half hours later, the group rode into Mayfest at Tom Byrne Park in Atmore, tired but pleased to be finished with the fund-raising race.
Alecia Glaize, director for the organization, said the ride was more than just a fundraiser.
Glaize said forming friendships between Brewton and Atmore partners can help the organization thrive.
The riders in Saturday’s event had 29.5 miles to foster friendships. The ride began at Burnt Corn Creek Park in Brewton and finished at Tom Byrne Memorial Park in the middle of Atmore’s annual Mayfest event. A rest stop was provided for riders in Flomaton.
Several riders in the event said they were not regular cyclists but wanted to give the event a try in order to help Habitat. Lois Crenshaw, an employee at Medical Center Pharmacy, was one of those rookie riders.
Crenshaw was responsible for recruiting additional riders for the event from among her fellow employees, she said.
A final tally of funds raised for the event was not available Saturday at ride time; however, Glaize said the amount collected was significant.
Glaize said the money raised from this event will be used to fund building projects in the county by the Habitat organization.
Will Ruzic of Brewton was the male winner of the race, and Natalie Nall of Atmore was the female winner.
For additional information concerning the Escambia County Habitat for Humanity and planned projects, contact their offices at 809-0095.