Chick-fil-A Tampa Bay to Sponsor Gulf Coast Bike Trek’s Family Ride on October 21, Cycles to Support Pediatric Lung Health

Today, the American Lung Association in Florida is recognizing the Chick-fil-A Tampa Bay restaurants for its investment in lung health and sponsorship of the Chick-fil-A Family Ride. The ride is part of the inaugural Gulf Coast Bike Trek, presented by Raymond James Financial, and is one of three available routes along the Pinellas Trail. The Trek will kick off at St. Petersburg College on Saturday, October 21. The theme is pediatric lung health, and funds raised will support the Lung Association’s efforts to improve lung health and prevent lung disease.

“At Chick-fil-A, it’s everyone’s job to serve; caring for our communities is core to who we are,” said Jane Melton, area marketing director, Chick-fil-A Tampa Bay. “Partnering with the American Lung Association to help kids and bring the community together for an engaging, unique event was a natural fit for us. We’re encouraging the Tampa community to join us on the trail!”

The Chick-fil-A Family Ride is one of three scenic courses through Pinellas County. At 10 miles long, it is the most accessible to riders of all experience levels. More seasoned cyclists may choose the 62-mile loop (a metric century ride) or 40-mile loop. The routes will largely avoid main highways by traveling along the Pinellas Trail. The Trek will feature top-notch rider support, plentiful rest stops and an unforgettable party at the finish line.

In addition to the sponsoring the Family Ride, Chick-fil-A will provide refreshments and entertainment at one of the designated rest stops.

“We are grateful for Chick-fil-A Tampa Bay’s support to raise awareness of pediatric lung health in our community and offer an opportunity for participants to have fun and get some great exercise,” said Steven Riddle, executive director of the American Lung Association in Tampa Bay. “Pediatric pulmonary diseases, like childhood asthma and RSV, take a toll on our most vulnerable. With the Chick-fil-A Family Ride, kids will literally be helping other kids.”

Each year, students miss nearly 14 million school days due to asthma. It is a leading illness-related reason that children and youth miss school. Here in Tampa, more than 42,000 children have been diagnosed with asthma. The Lung Association has resources available at Lung.org/asthma.

Registration is $25 for the Chick-fil-A Family Ride (10 miles) and $40 for the 62-mile loop and 40-mile loop. Cyclists may participate individually or in teams, which can include friends, families, companies and organizations. There is a $200 fundraising minimum to participate. Participants who raise more than $500 will earn a promotional bike jersey. Funds raised from the Gulf Coast Bike Trek, presented by Raymond James, will support the American Lung Association’s efforts to save lives through lifesaving research, education and advocacy. For more information, and to register, visit GulfCoastBikeTrek.org.

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About Chick-fil-A, Inc.   
Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. is a restaurant company known for the Original Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich and signature hospitality. Represented by more than 190,000 Team Members, Operators and Staff, Chick-fil-A® restaurants serve guests freshly prepared food at more than 2,800 restaurants in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. The family-owned and privately held restaurant company was founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy and is committed to serving the local communities in which its franchised restaurants operate.      
 
Known for its leadership and growth opportunities, in 2022 Chick-fil-A was named a Best Employer in America by Forbes and a top company for career opportunities for Black employees by Glassdoor. The company was also awarded the Employee's Choice by Glassdoor honoring top CEOs and was named a Culture 500 Culture Champion in 2020. A leader in customer service, Chick-fil-A was named QSR magazine's Drive-Thru Restaurant of the Year in 2021. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.com and @ChickfilANews.