- FAQ
1. What time does the event start and end?
The event runs from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with rider check-in beginning promptly at 9:00 AM. All participants must return no later than 5:00 PM, and closing announcements and fellowship will conclude by 6:00 PM. We encourage riders to plan accordingly to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and timely return. 🚴✨
2. Where does the ride start and end?
The ride begins and ends at:
Governors Trail Park – Picnic Pavilion
21402 Governors Highway
Matteson, IL 60443
3. Where can I park?
Ample parking is available adjacent to the park at St. Lawrence O’Toole Catholic Church, which features one of the largest parking lots in the area and provides convenient access to the event site. Event volunteers will be on hand to help guide participants upon arrival and ensure a smooth check-in experience. 🚗✨
4. What amenities does the park offer?
This beautiful 20.7-acre park features a baseball field, a football/soccer field, a picnic pavilion with picnic tables, open green space for gathering, and direct access to the scenic Old Plank Trail. Families and guests are welcome to relax and enjoy the grounds while riders are out on the course, making it a wonderful setting for both participation and community fellowship. 🌿🚴✨.
5. What is the Old Plank Trail?
The ride connects to the Old Plank Trail, one of Matteson’s beautiful natural trail systems. It offers a tranquil, scenic pathway ideal for both cycling and walking. Supporters are welcome to enjoy a peaceful stroll along the trail while cheering on participants and taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. 🌿🚴✨
6. How long is the route?
The primary route is 22 miles round trip to Prairie Ridge, Frankfort and back.
Extended route options are available toward Joliet or Chicago Heights for experienced riders.
7. Will there be rest stops along the route?
Yes! We have planned designated stop points along the route to allow riders to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the surrounding community. One featured stop is at the South Suburban Humane Society, where participants can relax, stretch, show some love by petting furry friends, and learn more about the organization’s community impact — adding a heartwarming moment to the ride. Another rest point will be available near Harlem Avenue, offering a safe space to regroup and prepare for the next leg of the journey. Riders will also stop at Breidert Green Park in downtown Frankfort, where they can refresh, explore charming streets, enjoy local eateries and shops, and connect with fellow cyclists. We encourage all riders to be mindful of time and ensure they return to the park by 5:00 PM, as the event will close promptly at 6:00 PM. 🚴✨
8. Are rest stops staffed?
Yes. Designated rest areas will have volunteers and basic support available.
9. What is the registration fee?
Individual Rider: $40
Team Rider: $50 per rider
Team Minimum Fundraising Goal: $500.00
10. What is the Peer-to-Peer fundraising campaign? Our Peer-to-Peer platform allows riders and teams to create personal fundraising pages to share with friends, family, and supporters.
Our Peer-to-Peer platform empowers riders and teams to create personalized fundraising pages that can be shared with friends, family, and supporters. Participants can set a fundraising goal, share their unique link, track donations in real time, and invite others to ride or give. Through this simple but powerful approach, every rider becomes an ambassador for impact — helping turn personal effort into meaningful community support. 🚴✨
11. Do I have to fundraise to participate?
No, fundraising is not required for individual riders. While we encourage participants to take advantage of our Peer-to-Peer fundraising platform to help expand our outreach impact, you are absolutely welcome to register as a single rider and simply enjoy the ride while supporting the cause. 🚴✨
12. What is the team fundraising goal?
We are looking for 10 teams to help amplify our impact. Each team is encouraged to raise $500 per team through our Peer-to-Peer campaign platform. Teams can share a personalized fundraising page, invite friends, family, and coworkers to support, track progress together, and even engage in friendly fundraising challenges. When 10 teams raise $500 each, that generates $5,000 toward community outreach programs — turning miles into measurable impact. 🚴✨
13. Is a helmet required?
Yes. Helmets are mandatory for all riders.
14. Is a waiver required?
Yes. All participants must sign a liability waiver prior to riding.
No rider will be permitted to participate without a completed waiver.
16. Can children participate?
Yes, minors are welcome to participate with certain conditions. Riders under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the required waiver, must be accompanied by a registered adult rider throughout the event, and are required to wear a helmet at all times for safety. 🚴✨
17. What are the basic event rules?
All riders must follow traffic laws and trail regulations, ride responsibly and respectfully, adhere to volunteer and event staff instructions, and return to the park no later than 5:00 PM. Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in removal from the event to ensure the safety of all participants. 🚴✨
18. How should I prepare?
Preparing for a 20-mile bike ride involves building endurance through consistent, gradually increasing training rides, ensuring your bike is properly tuned (check tires, brakes, and chain), and practicing smart nutrition by consuming carbohydrates and staying hydrated before and during the ride. Focus on endurance rather than speed, maintaining a steady pace to avoid burnout. In the weeks leading up to the event, aim for a few 10–25 mile rides to build confidence and stamina, and allow 1–2 days of rest before ride day so your muscles can recover. Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing and padded cycling shorts (chamois) to prevent saddle discomfort, and consider carrying basic repair items such as a spare tube and tire lever to prepare for minor mechanical issues. 🚴✨
19. What should I bring?.
Be sure to bring a helmet (required for all riders), a full water bottle to stay hydrated, light snacks for energy along the route, and a small backpack if needed for personal items. If you have not completed your waiver digitally, please bring a signed copy with you. Most importantly, bring a positive attitude and team spirit as we ride together for a meaningful cause. 🚴✨