At Terra Running Co, we love that we get to help community organizations put on meaningful fundraisers through races. One of the more unique events that we have the privilege of timing is the Cleveland Circuit Ride for Family Promise of Bradley County. This incredible event benefits an incredible organization serving families right here in our neighborhood. We spoke with the race director and the Executive Director of Family Promise, Eva VanHook, about Family Promise of Bradley County and this exciting event.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with Family Promise of Bradley County?

I was recruited by a founding board member as the volunteer coordinator for my church before the agency opened to serve the public. I filled needs as they arrived serving first as the Case Manager, then Program Director before ultimately serving as the Executive Director. That was 11 years ago. I just celebrated my anniversary.  

Can you tell us about Family Promise? What do you all and how does that impact our community?

Family Promise of Bradley County works with children and their families facing housing instability. What started as a family shelter in 2011, has since become a housing hub for the community by providing shelter, prevention, diversion, and stabilization services. We work to ensure that children have a safe place to sleep at night by sharing their stories and advocating for the families we serve. Our families work hard to overcome obstacles and achieve their goal of sustainable housing.

Unlike the majority of the races we time, this is a cycling event, which is exciting! Can you tell us about the event itself? Who is it for, are there multiple distances, are kids allowed to participate, etc.

We are so excited to partner with Terra Running Co this year to provide the timing system for our participants. We have been hosting this ride for 10 years now and we have seen it grow and develop. We offer 4 different distances (25, 50, 100 km, and 100 miles) so that any cyclists, or family, can participate. On the shorter routes we do offer that children can ride free with a paying adult (they must also ride with the minor). The committee made the decision to only allow adults to ride the 100 mile century. The 25, 50, and 100 km routes are marked by Route Arrows. The 100 mile course requires that participants have turn-by-turn navigation. Each route crosses at least one aid station and is followed by a chase vehicle. Bradley County Sheriff's Department and Cohutta Police Department aid the cyclists in the more trafficked street crossings. We work very hard to make sure that all cyclists are safe.

How does the Cleveland Circuit Ride benefit the work you all do at Family Promise?

The Cleveland Circuit Ride was developed by a volunteer group that wanted to see a cycling event happen in our community. They chose to benefit Family Promise because they believed in the mission and they saw firsthand the work that we did and the difference that we made. Over the years, this group has retired and passed ownership of the Circuit Ride over to Family Promise and the organization has committed to carrying on this unique event. This is our largest fundraising event of the year as we are able to expand our reach to so many new individuals. Not only does it provide the finances needed for the organization to be successful, but it also provides connections to new individuals who want to make an impact in our community.

What should cyclists expect on the day of the event? Where and when does it start, are there aid stations on the course? Any other relevant details?

We are only a few weeks away. I can't believe it! The day of the event is active and it is crucial that participants know what to expect. The event starts and stops at Black Fox Elementary School on Saturday, September 7th. Depending on the route the cyclists are riding, affects the start time with our longest ride leaving at 7 am. The 100 km will leave at 8 am and the 50 and 25 km riders will leave at 9 am. Routes will be marked by Route Arrows and cyclists are given color-coded wristbands. Everyone also gets my phone number because I want them to have access to me in case of an emergency. There is access to the aid station at least once during the routes. Chase vehicles follow every group and there are police officers stationed at more critical road crossings. After the cyclists get back from the ride, the Hungry Hippie will feed them one of their tasty signature dishes. There will also be vendors set up and spaces for you to bring your camping chair and bask in the glory of your accomplishment. 

Anything else you would like to share? 

This is a great event and really accessible to riders of all skill levels. Feel free to contact Eva at eva@familypromisebradleytn.org with any questions.
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Riders can find more information and sign up for the event by visiting the Cleveland Circuit Ride website at www.circuitride.org. To find more information about Family Promise of Bradley County and to support the work that they do, visit their website at www.familypromisebradleytn.org.