MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - Riders got on their bicycles and hit the streets of Miami for a race meant to benefit those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Over 50 cyclists from across the world participated in Hublot’s Best Buddies Challenge: Miami. The race began at the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort in Miami Beach, Friday morning.
The 70-mile route took riders across various parts of the city, including downtown Miami, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables and Aventura.
Taking part in the ride was 7Sports anchor Donovan Campbell and four-time Tour de France champion Chris Froome.
“To be uninterrupted in Miami, not stopping at every red light, it’s an incredible experience,” Froome said. “It’s for a really good cause as well.”
The Best Buddies Challenge gives cyclists the opportunity to make an impact on people’s lives.
All of the proceeds from the race will help Best Buddies provide friendships, mentors and jobs to those with disabilities.
“Awesome, couldn’t be better,” one participant said. “Seventy miles, crushing it, lots of energy, raised tons of money.”
Best Buddies founder Anthony Shriver has been organizing events similar to this one for over 30 years.
“There’s nothing better for me than supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” Shriver said. “I think finding them jobs in the communities, housing, integration, inclusion, acceptance is what it’s all about. I think when we are able to implement that in schools, it transforms the whole school. It’s a great way to support our efforts.”
Shriver was joined by celebrity friends who offered to help in his efforts.
“Gonna come out and support Best Buddies and be a part of this,” NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson said. “It’s my second time riding in it. It’s such a great cause, and everybody and their kids out on the roads here in Miami.”
“We try, you know, us from the community,” IndyCar driver Tony Kanaan added. “I saw you riding this morning. You never rode a bike, did ya?”
Mack Cycle and Braman Motors assisted in preparing cyclists before their long journey.
“As a father of an autistic child, I know how important that is to be able to include our special children into these events,” Braman Motors sales manager Willie Peraza said.
Actor Jason Lewis stopped by our North Bay Village station with a message.
“You take care of giving space to another human being, and we all deserve a little space on this planet,” Lewis said. “Instead of just giving them the expected life, it gives them the life they’re after for themselves.”
WSVN is a proud sponsor of Best Buddies.
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