How often do you get the chance to help children in need, while taking a break from work with a lively group of friends, plus the opportunity to spend time outdoors amid spectacular scenery? In addition there were amazing health and fitness benefits, and the chance to bring people together for a common goal. Bike4Chais charity bike ride offered all these things plus a grand finale guaranteed to tug on your heartstrings.
Bike4Chai raises funds so seriously ill children can spend two carefree weeks at Camp Simcha, a medically supervised overnight summer camp in Glen Spey, New York.
Abie Maleh and Alan Shamah helped to spark community interest in Bike4Chai two years ago. Now in its third year, the ride has grown from two dozen to 200 cyclists. In order to participate in the ride, bicyclists from the tri-state area, across the country and Canada, commit to raising a minimum of $3,600.
The 160-mile course starts off in Asbury Park, New Jersey and culminates the next day at Camp Simcha. A two-day ride might seem challenging for some first-time entrants, but cyclists agree that the groups support and sense of camaraderie make the ride far less daunting than it might initially appear. Upon completion, the riders enter Camp Simcha together and are greeted by the children with cheers and songs. Its a welcome that has brought tears to the eyes of many cyclists.
Sammy Matalon has been one of the riders since the first year. He said, Seeing the kids at the camp is just so powerful. Ive become passionate about getting more people to join Bike4Chai because it brings communities together for all the right reasons.
The funds raised by Bike4Chai allow Camp Simcha to offer a complete range of traditional camp experiences, from archery to water activities, to more than 400 seriously ill children. The camps fully equipped medical center and specially trained counselors mean that even children receiving chemotherapy can enjoy two weeks of uninterrupted summer fun. Thanks to the generosity of many, campers return home with new friends and happy memories.
Morris Tabush declared, Youre getting in shape; youre having fun with a wonderful group of people; and youre helping sick kids. Its win-win-win!
Tabush and Matalon are grateful for the experience. When you finally ride into Camp Simcha, youre exhausted but youre so happy to have made the effort, said Matalon with a smile. Tabush concluded, Youre helping to provide the kids with the best two weeks of their lives. Its an experience that no cyclist should miss!
