Sequoia Cycling Classic to benefit Brain Injury foundation

The next stop for elite women on the US National Racing Calendar will be the Sequoia Cycling Classic, a time trial and criterium weekend. Along with the elite and amateur events, the March 15-16 event in Exeter and Visalia, California will also host a benefit for The Jeff Barnes Brain Injury Foundation.

The weekend's festivities will include a 0.7-mile walk/run on Sunday, March 16 during the Visalia Criterium. Proceeds from the walk/run will solely benefit the foundation, a Visalia-based non-profit public foundation. The Foundation works to provide assistance to brain injured persons and their families and educates the public through campaigns, one of which provides bicycle and skateboard helmets to children.

"It's a great cause to support and one more reason to bring family and friends out to the event," said Race Director Sheri Clark.

The Jeff Barnes Brain Injury Foundation was created after Jeff Barnes sustained a severe brain injury in December 2001. The foundation is requesting a $10 donation for each person who wants to participate in the walk/run, which is scheduled to take place between the pro women and men's race at 1 p.m. at the race's start/finish line. Sign-ups will be taken the day of the race. Those who register for the race will be entered into a drawing for a free bike and helmet.

"We are extremely honored to join Sequoia Cycling Classic again this year," said Cheri Barnes, of the Jeff Barnes Brain Injury Foundation. "March is National Brain Injury Awareness month, so we're hoping our presence at the event will help create an awareness about brain injuries and their life-altering consequences."

For more information on the Sequoia Cycling Classic, visit www.sequoiaclassic.org.