The 19th Annual Tour de Moore Century Ride is scheduled for Labor Day. I talked with Craig Pryor who has graciously volunteered to be the event coordinator, and he provided me the following information.

Three routes are offered this year that include 100, 50, and 28 miles. The rides start and finish at the Campbell House on Connecticut Avenue in Southern Pines. The 100-mile will begin at 8:30 a.m., the 50-mile ride will be at 9 a.m., and the 28-mile ride will start at 9:15 a.m.

Participants have three options for registering for the event. Preregistration can be accomplished by registering on line at active.com.

If you prefer mailing in your registration you can download the registration form from the Sandhills Cycling Club Web site link at www.rainbowcycles.com.

Race day on-site registration will also be available from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at the Campbell House.

The Tour de Moore Century Ride is co-sponsored by Sandhills Cycling Club and Habitat for Humanity of the NC Sandhills.

Habitat for Humanity will receive direct contributions, sponsor contributions, as well as a portion of the registration fees to benefit their mission in providing affordable housing for people in need. Participants are encouraged to make a direct contribution via the registration process, Pryor said.

"The Tour de Moore Century Ride is not a race, and safety is of the utmost importance. This year we will have rider identification wristbands as well as motorcycle support in addition to our sag vehicle support to ensure the safest possible event. Six rest stops will also be provided for participants to refuel and rehydrate," said Pryor.

After the ride, there will be a pasta lunch provided by Ragazzi's that is included in the entry fee as well as T-shirts with early registration or as long as supplies last.

Additional merchandise (activity bags, hats, travel coffee mugs) will be available to purchase on the day of the event. Music will be provided by the Java Mules.

Greg Combs is a cyclist and coach for more than 30 years and is considered an expert in bicycling fit and rider positioning. He is also the Director of the Sport Management Program at Methodist University in Fayetteville. For more information go to www.velosmart.com or email him at gcombs@methodist.edu