The Ellsworth area makes for a great bike ride any time of year. And a post-Labor Day ride, when many of the tourists have returned home, somehow makes the sights and sounds of the coastal roads even better.

If you need more reason than that so put the bike on the car rack and head toward the Blue Hill Peninsula, how about the 8th Annual Beth C. Wright Ride for Life?

This favorite of folks in Hancock and Washington counties is a fundraiser for the Beth C. Wright Cancer Research Center in Ellsworth. Beth was born on Beals Island and, at age 24, was diagnosed with breast cancer. After finding few helpful resources in the local area she started a support group at Down East Community Hospital and then the Choose Life Foundation. Beth lost her battle in 2000.

The ride, which begins at Surry Elementary School, helps keep Beth's legacy alive with sponsorships, registration fees and donations. There are three bike routes - 100 miles, 50 miles and 20 miles - with a registration fee of $45 for adults.

The 100-miler begins at 8 a.m. And if you aren't feeling the pedaling, the event is still looking for volunteers. (Hhhhm ... a weekend in Ellsworth without sore legs ...?)

After riders finish up, there's a party planned to celebrate not just the ride but, well ... life. The post-race event features lobster rolls, pasta salad and musical entertainment for all participants.

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About the Author

Karen Beaudoin is an online editor for Maine Today Media and contributes two blogs to the company's websites.

In the City tells readers what to know if they want to know Portland. Pedal On offers info, events and advice for people who love their bikes more than, well ... almost anything.

Get in touch at kbeaudoin@mainetoday.com

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