Burn Your Buns Bike Ride Raises Over $12K For Bridgewood Farms

WILLIS, TX — The Burn Your Buns Bike Ride made a triumphant return in 2021.

After canceling the 2020 edition because of COVID-19, the 17th annual fundraiser for Bridgewood Farms raised over $12,000 to help the lives of Montgomery County residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities, according to a news release.

On July 4, over 300 cyclists ranging in age from 10 to 85 biked along 20- or 31-mile routes spread across the rolling landscape of Willis and Conroe, with some even taking two laps around the long course to ride 62 miles. The fundraiser also put together a fitting 4th of July lunch, complete with hot dogs, watermelon and a Texas staple: Blue Bell ice cream.

“Bridgewood Farms was blessed that it didn’t rain, it wasn’t too hot and everyone had a wonderful time riding in the scenic countryside,” Bridgewood Farms Executive Director Enid Goodman said in the release. “We are so grateful for the community’s continued support of our program and activities, which is essential for our continued growth. We can’t wait for next year’s event!”

Bridgewood Farms aids 120 teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Montgomery County and the surrounding area, helping them create opportunities to lead healthy and productive lives. Bridgewood Farms clients can train for the Special Olympics and participate in sessions on basic nutrition, money management, housekeeping, social interaction and reading specific to the individual and their needs. Bridgewood Farms also offers programs in pre-vocational training, horticulture, ceramics, creative arts, and adult continuing education.

The Woodlands Cycling Club helped put on the event, recruiting law enforcement, volunteers, and officials to monitor the route. The WCC has supported the bike ride since its inception in February 2004, when it was called Ride from the Heart. With only 15 participants and sleeting weather the first year, the event was rebranded as the Burn Your Buns Bike Ride and moved to July.