Lakemont Ladies Cycling Club is holding its third annual Cycle the WAVE bicycle charity event to support the Eastside Domestic Violence Program on Sunday, Sept. 19.

Cycle the WAVE (Women Against Violence Everywhere) is a non-competitive cycling event developed for women of all ages and fitness levels. The goals of the ride are to increase awareness of domestic violence and raise money for Eastside Domestic Violence Program (EDVP). It was created by club members who were passionate about cycling and had a desire make a difference. One hundred percent of the proceeds of the event will benefit EDVP.

Cyclists have three route options depending on their skill level – 25-mile Girly Girl, 40-mile Middle Sister or 62-mile Burly Girl – with each of the routes staring and ending at Tibbetts Valley Park in Issaquah.

In 2009, Cycle the WAVE raised $50,000 for EDVP, more than doubling the success of the first year’s event. According to Ride Director Sharon Anderson, they’re anticipating 1,200 riders at this year’s event.

REI, one of the ride’s sponsors, is holding a pre-registration event on Sept. 11 at their Issaquah store on Gilman Blvd. Riders can pick up their event packets from 1 – 5 p.m., and enjoy food, drinks and discounts from local businesses.

Founded in 1982, EDVP has grown to become one of the state’s largest domestic violence service providers, offering a 24-hour hotline, counseling, support groups and referral services to individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

More information about the event is available on the Cycle the WAVE website.