The 30-mile, family friendly route will kick off at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday at the East Sac County Elementary Building, 400 S. 16th St. in Sac City.

For the first time, Ride for Raiders will meet to benefit the Wheatland Student Assistance Fund.

“Quite often, teachers don’t have any resource except to buy stuff themselves,” when they see a student in need, said organizer Jeanette Strain. “That fund assists students and families in need.”

The fund hosts a monthly food pantry at Lake View High School, and helps provide other necessities, such as clothing, as needed.

On Saturday, bikers will don new T-shirts and first head to the American Legion hall in Lake View for breakfast.

The route will then take bicyclists west along old Highway 20, follow the blacktop south to Lake View with a sag wagon in tow for safety, assistance and to offer a break to tired bicyclists.

Riders will take the scenic Sauk Rail Trail to Carnavon with trail passes included in the registration fee. The picturesque route meanders under a two-mile canopy of trees complemented by wild life. Breaking out of the trees, riders will find a unique view of the marsh.

From Carnavon, the route goes east briefly before going north up to Blackhawk Lake, where riders will enjoy a down-hill ride after a haul to the top. Sac County Road M54 takes riders around the east end of the lake north to Sac City.

“Part of the enjoyment will just be the fun of doing it together,” said Jeanette Strain, “knowing that they’re contributing to a good cause.”

The ride, about two and a half hours long, will be followed by lunch at the elementary school. Those not participating may enjoy the meal for a donation.

Bike enthusiasts from Sac City churches have worked with Strain and her husband, Chuck Strain, to put on a fun experience that makes a difference.

They’re aiming for at least 100 registrations. If they reach their goal, the Rev. Mark MacWhorter, of the First Christian Church in Sac City, has promised to shave his head.

Those wishing to register for the ride can do so at https://bikeiowa.com/Event/13870/ride-for-raiders.

Same day registrations will be available on-site at 8 a.m. the day of the ride, costing $30 per person or $60 for a family of four. Registration forms can be picked up at libraries and schools in the ESC School District or from a link on Sac City First Christian Church’s Facebook page.