A record 200 cyclists participated in this year's Bike to the Beach.

between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The riders raised $175,000, surpassing all expectations.

The post-race reception had the feel of a backyard barbecue. Volunteers grilled chicken in the custom-built Bike to the Beach smoker, while the Lower Delaware Autism Foundation organized sack races and pie-eating contests for children. A local gym provided trainers to cool down and stretch out riders. As the first 100 riders were announced, families, friends, and bikers enjoyed music, food, and drinks in the refreshing cool-down area.

At the close of the event, the riders met for a group photograph at the Bethany Beach bandstand where Bike to the Beach Co-President Tommy Schmitz announced the final amount raised and acknowledged everyone for their phenomenal efforts in the fight against autism.

Bike to the Beach is a growing vibrant cycling community in and around Washington DC. The non-profit encapsulates a vast network whose main focus is to raise money and awareness for charitable causes. Bike to the Beach hosts many events, ranging from small bike outings and informational workshops, to their famous, annual "Bike to the Beach” (B2B). Bike to the Beach's partnership with Autism Speaks began in 2007 with two dozen riders raising over $25,000. Last year, 75 riders registered for B2B , raising over $100,000 for autism research.

For more information and photos, or to lend your support through a donation, please visit www.biketothebeach.org.