BY AARON BRENNER | abrenner@ledger-enquirer.com
@WarEagleExtra
AUBURN, Ala. — Former Auburn Heisman Trophy winner Bo Jackson is bringing biking back for another charity fundraiser.
‘Bo Bikes Bama 2′ will be Saturday, April 27 in Cordova, Alabama, a one-day bike ride on the second anniversary of deadly tornadoes sweeping through the state. Jackson, a native of Bessemer, Ala., raised more than $600,000 over five days last year through areas affected by the spring 2011 tornadoes.
Celebrity riders and several sponsors, including Nike, will highlight the event. Jackson’s goal is to raise $1 million for the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund.
“I wanted to do something that made the rest of the country aware of what happened here in Alabama,” Jackson said in a release. “Thanks to the hundreds of participants, support from some celebrity friends and regular news coverage, we were able to do just that.
“But the work isn’t over and Alabama still needs our help. That’s why Bo Bikes Bama is coming back.”
Riders may register now at www.bobikesbama.com, which is also accepting donations on the web site or by texting ‘BOBIKES’ to 50555. A 60-mile ride beginning at 8 a.m. costs $60 in advance or $100 the day of the event, while a 10 a.m. 20-mile trek is $40 in advance or $60 on April 27. The rides will start and finish in Cordova, and Jackson will be at the starting line for both groups.
Top donors will be recognized personally by Jackson at the finish line, receiving a Jackson-autographed Bo Bikes Bama jersey.