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The Crowne Plaza in Stamford was transformed into a giant staging area for one of the Jewish community’s largest fundraising cycling events, Bike4Chai, as 500 cyclists (many with family members in tow) got ready for the 180-mile, two-day bike tour that starts tomorrow.

The lobby of the hotel was decked in blue and yellow, the team colors, and volunteers were everywhere to help cyclists store their bikes, register, and find rooms. The afternoon was a whirlwind of activity as old friends greeted one another and new cyclists got acclimated. Many cyclists dropped off last minute checks given by friends, relatives, and colleagues eager to support Chai Lifeline, the international children’s health support network.

“All for the kids,” said one rider as he handed an envelope to a Chai Lifeline staffer. “At the end of the day, that’s why we’re here.”

That theme was echoed during the pasta party (a misnomer, since the menu featured everything from sliders to carved meats to sushi and salad in addition to the traditional pre-race food) by speakers who included Brian Haimm, Alan Shamah, Abie Maleh, and other long-time Bike4Chai cyclists. They congratulated their comrades who have spent months training and fundraising.

“A friend recently lost his young son,” said Haimm, turning serious. “How do you get through that? How do you tell your other children that their younger brother is not going to make it? I don’t know, but Chai Lifeline was there for them. Thank you Rabbi (Sruli) Fried and Rabbi (Simcha) Scholar, for this incredible organization that made sure that they were never alone.”

Rabbi Scholar, Chai Lifeline’s executive vice president, told the group that their impact would be felt at Camp Simcha Special, where the bike tour ends on Thursday afternoon, and way beyond. “What you give to the kids lasts all year long, not only in the memories of a special day, but in the year-round programs and activities that enhance their families.”

The group also heard from Joey, an 11-year-old camper who came down from Camp Simcha Special for the evening. “Thanks for all you do, and don’t fall off your bikes,” he cautioned to the laughter and cheers of the group.

“Joey may be confined to a wheelchair, but his spirit is irrepressible and will never be confined,” said Rabbi Fried. “In that way, he’s like so many of our campers.”

Bike4Chai gets underway Wednesday morning at 7:00 AM. Joey will cut the ribbon and the 500 cyclists will be off. The first day’s ride is 110 miles. After resting on Wednesday evening, the group will cycle an additional 70 miles on Thursday, ending at “The World’s Greatest Finish Line,” Camp Simcha.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)