On Saturday, Aug. 5, the 13th annual Donegal Insurance Chocolate Tour will kick off from the Manheim Farm Show Complex, 502 E. Adele Ave. It will feature six bike routes, ranging from 10 miles to 100 miles, with participants rolling out between 7 and 8:30 a.m. A 2-mile fun walk will begin at 9 a.m. Proceeds from the tour will benefit cancer research.

"The routes wander through the scenic southcentral Pennsylvania countryside that highlight the beauty of the area, the history of farming and the tradition of chocolate that the area is well known for," said Will Stone, Chocolate Tour committee member. "The longer routes inevitably take the cyclists through covered bridges. All routes have full support, including rest stops and mechanical support."

The fun walk is dog-friendly and will take participants through the covered bridge at the Farm Show complex and along the Chiques Creek trail, explained Cheryl Gamber, Chocolate Tour committee member. She noted that chocolate treats will be offered along the trail, and ice cream will be provided for all at the end of the route, including pup cups for canine participants.

"The Chocolate Tour is a family-friendly event," Gamber said. "Cycling and walk participants are treated to lunch, hydrating beverages, Kreider's ice cream, a (giveaway drawing) and, of course, lots of chocolate," she stated.

Throughout its 13-year history, the Chocolate Tour has provided seed money for initial research projects that have led to larger cancer research grant awards for the Penn State College of Medicine and Penn State Cancer Institute, she shared. "Currently, $2 million in cancer research grants are active at the College of Medicine as a result of Chocolate Tour funds," Gamber said.

Some of the bike rides are dedicated to cyclists who have passed away from cancer in the past year, she remarked, noting that the 100-mile ride is dedicated to Jim Wilson of Hummelstown, while the 50-mile ride is dedicated to Rich Snively of Lititz. The 35-mile ride is dedicated to Glenn Curtis of Bernville, and the 25-mile ride is dedicated to Bernhard Robertson of Johns Creek, Ga. The 10-mile ride is dedicated to John Richie of Hummelstown.

Stone emphasized that people can support the Chocolate Tour even if they cannot attend in person on Aug. 5. "Join us virtually by signing up, picking your favorite route and riding anytime between Aug. 6 and Aug. 8, and enjoy the scenery," he said. "Please post any ride pictures on social media, and don't forget to use #23choctour."

Vendors will also be on-site during the Chocolate Tour, including Penn State Department of Dermatology, Excel Physical Therapy, HQ Water Solutions and Hush Money Bikes. 2023 Chocolate Tour sponsors include Donegal Insurance Group, Cargill, PSECU and Northwest Bank.

For more information, to register or to donate, visit http://www.bikesignup.com/Race/Pa/Manheim/ChocolateTour.