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KINGSTON — Approximately 100 cyclists hit the roads on Saturday to help raise money for Wyoming Valley Habitat for Humanity.
Well, the cyclists actually hit simulated roads as the inaugural Spin for Habitat was held at Vive Health and Fitness.
“We were happy to partner with the Habitat for the fundraiser,” fitness center manager Heather Stearns said. “Every dollar raised will be used for local habitat projects.”
Stearns added that organizers hoped to raise over $2,500 on Saturday.
The spinning event was held in conjunction with the annual Wyoming Valley Habitat for Humanity Spencer Martin Memorial Bike Ride, which was scheduled for Sunday in the Back Mountain. However, with heavy rains expected for much of the day, organizers postponed the fundraiser that would have seen cyclists ride over actual roads.
On Saturday, each participant donated $25 to take part in one of three spin sessions.
“We are grateful to Vive for the opportunity to support Habitat’s mission to eliminate poverty housing,” said Karen Evans Kaufer, the executive director for the Wyoming Valley Habitat for Humanity.
She added the local Habitat expects to finish two more homes this year.
“We build, then sell simple decent housing to families who would otherwise not have the opportunity for home ownership,” Kaufer said. “We have families that have lived for more than 20 years in our homes.”
Kevin Engleman, Habitat vice president, participated in one session.
Stearns thanked the participants for their donations and for adding their spirit and enthusiasm to the spin classes. She also thanked instructors Keith Swartwood, Sean Thompkins and Wendy Tedesco, who led the spin sessions.
The indoor spinners pushed over a course simulating a “few more hills than usual,” Stearns said. Cyclists received a free tee-shirt for participating.
