Operation Red Sleigh prepares for annual cycling event; pre-registration ends July 16

ASHEBORO — Operation Red Sleigh, Inc.’s annual charity cycling event The “Sleigh Ride” will be held on Saturday, July 18.

This event is hailed as the safest cycling event in North Carolina, with the assistance of local law enforcement, fire departments, Emergency Services and a multitude of volunteers. Intersections are swept to remove debris that may be a hazard for the rider. There are rest stops along the route.

The event will start at Southwestern Randolph High School at 1641 Hopewell Friends Rd., Asheboro. Riders have a choice of three challenging routes; preview them on the Operation Red Sleigh website, www.operationredsleigh.org.

 Many of the same routes that have been used in the past are still included through the edge of the Uwharrie National Forest.

Riders receive an annual T-shirt as long as the shirts are available. 

Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. on the day of the event. The staggered start will begin at 8 a.m.

Pre-registration is $35; Onsite registration $40. Under 12 can ride free with riding adult on routes.

Visit www.operationredsleigh.org to register online.

Operation Red Sleigh is a non-profit organization that began in 2000. The Sleigh Ride has been the organization’s primary fundraiser. 

Local law enforcement, including NC Highway Patrol, started Operation Red Sleigh to assist families in Randolph County who were in need. The organization is given names of children in need by local school systems’ counselors / social workers. Members then help Santa shop for those children in Randolph County who will not have a Christmas. Money is raised throughout the year and normally a hot meal for the children and their family is also provided on the day the presents are distributed.