October 31, 2005 -Registrations for the Canadian Bible Society’s up-coming Bike for Bibles Centennial Ride have reached the halfway mark. But there’s still time for more cyclists to register prior to the December 31 deadline.

In honour of its up-coming centennial anniversary, the Canadian Bible Society is planning a coast-to-coast bike ride that will take participating cyclists on a history making, 64-day journey touching every province across the nation, July 2 – September 3, 2006.

More than two years in the planning, the ride has been structured to take place in nine regional “legs.” But riders also have the option of pedalling the entire 7,800-kilometre distance through more than 100 Canadian communities. Space on individual legs of the journey is quickly filling up and to date, more than 30 cyclists have signed on for the challenge of the entire countrywide tour.

“We’re thrilled with the response thus far,” says Bruce Kemp, CBS District Director for North Alberta. “There are couples and families that plan on experiencing the ride together along with several senior citizens, and even one courageous couple who hope to ride a tandem bike.”

Bike for Bibles is a fundraising activity employed by Bible societies around the world. Started in Australia in 1984, the annual rides generate funds for Bible translation, publication and distribution projects globally. The Canadian Bible Society hopes to raise $500,000 through next summer’s event.

Anyone with a passion for cycling and a desire to support the Bible cause can participate.

Registration fees vary depending on the distance to be travelled and the route taken, but cover meals, transportation, accommodations, official Bike for Bibles cycling jersey and team T-shirt. To register, visit www.biblesociety.ca and click on the Bike for Bibles link.

The Canadian Bible Society translates, publishes, distributes and encourages the use of the Bible throughout Canada. Formally founded in 1904 and chartered in 1906, the Canadian Bible Society is a member of the United Bible Societies, a fellowship of 141 national Bible societies around the world.