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Two days of action packed cycling, family activities planned for AF Cycling Classic

  • Published
  • By Aletha Frost
  • AFDW/PA
Air Force District of Washington --  Enjoy two days of heart-pounding cycling and fun at the U.S. Air Force Cycling Classic June 12-13 in Clarendon and Crystal City, Va.

The 13th Air Force Cycling Classic Clarendon Cup will start June 12 at 8 a.m., in Clarendon with amateur races.

The cycling action moves to Crystal City June 13, with the pros competing on a 2-kilometers course through the colorful streets of Crystal City.

"We've gotten off to a really terrific start this year with more than 900 registered riders for the Air Force Crystal Ride June 13," said Mr. Eric Wood, AFDW's Air Force Cycling Classic event coordinator.

Taking place June 13, cyclists of all abilities are invited to test their fitness levels in the 3rd Annual Air Force Cycling Challenge Crystal Ride - a non-competitive event that offers participants a rare opportunity to ride a 12.5 kilometers course around the Air Force Memorial, the Pentagon and through Crystal City for up to three-and-a-half hours. Crystal Ride offers the option to raise money for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, which is designing and building the National Intrepid Center of Excellence, an advanced facility dedicated to research, diagnosis and treatment of military personnel and veterans suffering from traumatic brain injury and psychological health issues.

Several events to showcase the Air Force throughout the day are planned.

An oath of enlistment ceremony will take place at the Air Force Memorial at 1:15 p.m. Five Airmen will enlist to defend and support the United States of America.

Featured during this year's Air Force Cycling Classic will be the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. They will Post the Colors June 13, at 1:17 p.m. The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard represents the "Airmen of America." This elite group participates in more than 2,000 events a year as recruiters, ambassadors, morale boosters, entertainers and Airmen representing the Air Force at events worldwide.

Miss America 2010, Caressa Cameron will sing the National Anthem, followed by an Air Force flyover with helicopters from the 1st Helicopter Squadron at Andrews AFB, Md.

"This year's event is projected to surpass last year in both riders and funds raised," said Robert Laybourn, president of Arlington Sports and chief organizer of the Air Force Cycling Classic.

"Sponsors, local business and national brands will all be part of our expo, located in the center of the race course in Crystal City, Va." he said. "There will 15 vendors on hand to offer interactive centers for enjoyment by the thousands of participants and spectators."

For additional information on the U.S. Air Force Cycling Classic, visit http://www.airforcecyclingclassic.com/