Nearly 200 cyclists - part of the largest bike tour to ever cross North America - will be stopping at Redeemer University College on August 22 as part of their nine-week journey.

The Sea to Sea 2008 Bike Tour began June 30 in Seattle, Washington, and will finish in Jersey City, N.J. on August 30. Of the 220 participants, 127 are set to bike the entire 6,246 kilometres while another 93 are riding for at least a two-week portion of the route. The cyclists will begin their ride that day in London, Ontario.

Depending on weather conditions, they should complete the 121 kilometre ride and reach Redeemer's campus between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Redeemer is pleased to support the tour by offering its facilities for the cyclists and their support crew.

At 7:30, there will be a short program where guests are invited to meet the riders and learn more about the tour. The tour provides a way to raise awareness and funds for people living in poverty in North America and around the world.

Organizers have set a goal of raising $1.5 million to help end the cycle of poverty by funding programs in job creation, education, health services and more.