Samford’s Howard College of Arts and Sciences will celebrate the 10th Anniversary of its Old Howard 100 bike ride April 12.

The charity ride offers routes of 34, 43, 70 and 102 miles through three counties in Alabama’s historic Black Belt, where Samford was founded as Howard College in 1841. Proceeds from the ride benefit healthcare initiatives of Sowing Seeds of Hope in Perry County and have raised more than $30,000 to date.

Perry, Hale and Dallas counties are beautiful in the springtime, and riders have spread the word that the Old Howard 100 is the perfect first “century” for a new rider and for the new season. In 2013 the ride joined the Alabama Backroads Cycling Century Series, 10 rides that seek to promote the growth and development of long-distance cycling in Alabama, encourage participation in established Alabama century rides, recognize and reward individuals for their accomplishments, and benefit the charities and advocacy efforts supported by each of the events.

The Old Howard 100 will begin and end on the grounds of Judson College in Marion. Registration will open at 8 a.m., with the ride starting at 9 a.m. In addition to rest stops and full SAG support by Cahaba Cycles and the Pell City Ham Radio team, ride organizers will provide a hot dog lunch starting at noon and a full dinner 2-5 p.m.

Woodmen of the World will provide a small flag for each rider this year, and will present a flag to any military veteran who participates in the Old Howard 100. Veterans should let organizers know in advance that they will be participating.

Early Registration - $35
Late Registration (after April 4) - $45
Student Rate - $15
Perry, Hale and Dallas County Resident Rate - $15

In addition to the usual ride t-shirt, the Old Howard 100 this years offers a custom cycling jersey, available for sizing and purchase as riders register online or by mail.