Nearly 200 cyclists took off from the Heritage Park in Foley early Saturday morning for either a 28- or 68-mile ride that wound through scenic areas of Foley, Elberta, Summerdale, Robertsdale, Loxley and Elsanor.

There was also a three mile fun run for children and less experienced bikers.

The bike ride, called Le Tour de Foley was touted as “the ride of your life.” This was only the second year this event took place, and organizers thought it was just as much of a success this year as it had been the previous year.

Cyclists took to the streets shortly after 8 a.m. to the tune “Sweet Home Alabama” after listening to the national anthem.

Rick Blackwell with the Foley Lions Club said there were almost 200 cyclists who took part in the event. He also said that about 75 percent of those involved opted to do the longest route which took them between 4 and 5 hours.

Cyclists who opted to take the 28-mile route began arriving back at the starting line at 9:30 a.m.

The ride was put together by the Baldwin County Trailblazers and the Foley Lions Club to raise both funds and awareness that there needs to be more places for residents to enjoy the outdoors safely.

Proceeds from the event will be used to help the Foley Lions Club with community projects and help the Baldwin County Trailblazers. The trailblazers began with the hope to preserve rural Baldwin County in the face of urbanization by placing trails where people could enjoy the scenic views. The trailblazers continue to expand the existing biking, hiking and jogging paths and add new ones in Baldwin County to make this area more bike rider friendly. Both organizations are non-profits.

Terry Redfearn with the Baldwin County Trailblazers thinks cycling is becoming more popular as a national pastime, but this area is still lacking in enthusiasm and locations to take rides. He hopes that events like this one will raise awareness that biking is a good way to get out, get some exercise and see some of the beauty that this area has to offer.

Habitat for Humanity WomenBuild Chili cook-off

Habitat for Humanity Women Build will had its Chili cook-off fundraiser on Saturday in Heritage Park. For only $5, participants enjoyed a day of chili tasting beginning at 11 a.m. with judging taking place at 1 p.m.

Teams competed for top chili honors including, first, second, People's Choice and Showmanship award.

“This is a fun chili competition and a great time for the whole family”, said Rosemary Harris, WomenBuild representative.

Other events the family could enjoy inlcuded a bake sale, silent auction and tractor show along with a children's area with a pedal tractor pull.   Entertainment was provided by Soul Monkeys and Top Hat and Jackie.

Proceeds from the cook-off and poker run will help fund Women Build in the spring of 2011.

Rosemary Harris contributed to this report.