Bison Bicycle Classic Slated for Sept. 26

Oklahoma Baptist University's Division of Music, in conjunction with the Pedalers Racing Team and the Greater Shawnee Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, announces the Bison Bicycle Classic to be held in Shawnee on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009. The event will include 10-, 25- and 50-mile bicycle tours, as well as a 50-mile non-sanctioned road race.

All proceeds for the weekend will go to Habitat for Humanity of Shawnee Inc. to build the Division of Music HFH House. This project's goal is to raise funds to build a complete home for the local HFH affiliate. In addition to the Bison Bicycle Classic, the Division of Music also holds an annual concert fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity.

St. Gregory's University will also sponsor a 5K run/race to offer an event for those who would rather run than ride a bike. Last year's combined events brought in nearly $3,000 for Habitat for Humanity.

"This is the ninth year for the Bison Bicycle Classic, and we are always amazed at the number in the community that come out to volunteer and participate," said James Vernon, event coordinator and OBU associate professor of music. "We are pleased to be able to participate with our students in serving this worthy cause."

The Bicycle Classic will include 10-, 30- and 62-mile fully-supported bike tours for cyclists who wish not to race. In addition to the sporting events, Downtown Shawnee will host a "Back on Bell Street Jazz Festival" for local and out-of-town participants to enjoy at the conclusion of the sporting events.

For more information regarding volunteering or participating in the Bison Bicycle Classic, contact Jim Vernon or Thresa Swadley at (405) 878-2305 or e-mail music@okbu.edu.