Woodloch hosts first “Hope Cures” weekend with race, ride and more

To benefit Lance Armstrong Foundation

By SANDY LONG

HAWLEY, PA — “There are ten million people living with cancer in the United States, and it is estimated that close to 1.3 million more will be diagnosed this year alone,” noted Woodloch Resort’s Bob Kiesendahl, an eight-year leukemia survivor. “My goal is to inspire others and to create hope for those who are stricken with cancer.”

In this spirit, Kiesendahl has spearheaded an effort to establish an annual event—the Hope Cures Weekend—to raise funds in support of the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF), a charitable organization created by cancer survivor and seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong.

The LAF offers resources, tools and services to people affected by cancer and encourages a positive attitude focused on living and the motto: “Unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything.” Additional information about the LAF is available at www.laf.org.

Kiesendahl, Woodloch’s Food and Beverage director and family member, is a recent recipient of the Lance Armstrong Foundation’s LIVESTRONG Challenge Survivorship Award. Bob was one of five individuals in the United States selected to receive this prestigious honor.

While attending the ceremonies to receive his award, Bob was overwhelmed by the spirit of the event and those participating. Hoping to bring that positive energy to the Upper Delaware region, the Hope Cures Weekend was born. In addition to regular activities and amenities, the resort will offer its guests a variety of special events such as survivor games and challenges.

The Hope Cures Weekend will be held on May 4 through May 6 and will celebrate cancer survivors and their loved ones with a 5K Walk/Run and a Motorcycle Ride. A percentage of the resort’s weekend proceeds, and all proceeds from the race and ride, will be donated to the LAF.

Visit www.WoodlochEdge.com for information or call 570/685-8048.

The race

The 5K Walk/Run will take place on Saturday, May 5 at Woodloch Pines and is open to all levels and ages. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. and the race starts at 10:30 a.m. The $25 registration fee includes a t-shirt and a cookout celebration. Top finishers will take home trophies and medals. Sponsor and registration forms are available at Woodloch Resort; The Boat House Restaurant, Hawley; Northeast Sports, Honesdale; and online at www.WoodlochEdge.com.

The ride

The Hope Cures Motorcycle Ride partners Woodloch with Baer Sport Center and the Blue Knights-PA VI. Riders will meet at Baer Sports Center in Honesdale on Sunday, May 6. Registration is 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., with the ride beginning immediately afterward. A fee of $15 per rider and $15 per passenger includes a pin, live entertainment and the cookout at Fantasy Island in Rowland. Riders will be required to wear a helmet during the part of the ride that includes New York State Route 97.