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October 20, 2009

Ride a testament to mental, physical strength

By Melanie Patterson

The North Jefferson News



After less than five months, James Allen said that Alabama Teen Challenge has already changed his life.

Allen, of Gardendale, was one of 24 men who are bicycling from Hayden to Gulf Shores for the third annual Alabama Teen Challenge (ATC) Bike Tour: Breaking the Cycle.

Allen has found that the one-year long discipleship program has helped him not only get his life back on track, but has helped rebuild his relationships.

“Teen Challenge gives me the chance to restore my relationship with the Lord. It’s also restoring my relationships with my family,” he said.

Allen and the other riders pulled out of the ATC camp in Hayden Monday morning. They will bike more than 300 miles and are scheduled to arrive at the beach on Friday afternoon.

“We’re going to stop when we hit the water,” said Jason Easter, ATC program director.

The bike tour is part fund-raiser and part awareness campaign.

“We really want to emphasize to people that the cycle of addiction can be broken,” Easter said.

He said that last year, the ride brought in $34,000 for ATC.

This year, the ministry has raised $21,000 so far from the tour, but donations are still being accepted.

Today will be the most strenuous day, with the riders pedaling 83 miles. All other days, they ride 50 to 60 miles.

According to Easter, the men have been training for the ride by taking spin classes at the YMCA. They’re also required to wear helmets.

There are several vehicles accompanying the cyclists. If any of the riders are injured or need a break, they can ride in a van for part of the trip.

Another north Jefferson County man was also on the ride. Jeremy Washburn of Hayden is in his fifth month of the program.

“I came in with a bad addiction to drugs,” Washburn said. “But God has restored my relationship with my family. God has worked miraculous wonders in my life.”

To learn more about the ride, to sponsor a rider or make a donation, visit www.alabamateenchallenge.org/bike.php.

Also follow the riders on Facebook by searching Alabama Teen Challenge.

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