Community Bikes for Burns

Physical therapy students at the School of Allied Health Sciences recently hosted the annual charity PT Classic 25-mile and 50-mile bike and 5K run through Ransom Canyon.

What started six years ago, as an effort to help an ill classmate who couldn’t pay her medical bills, has turned into a milestone for successive physical therapy classes, said Mike Grajeda, a physical therapy student in the School of Allied Health Sciences.

“It gives us an opportunity to give back to the community while working closely with local businesses and with our local professional organization,” Grajeda said.

The PT Classic is always during October to celebrate National Physical Therapy Month. Grajeda said the event raises community awareness about physical therapy while also educating Lubbock-area residents about health, fitness and regular exercise for overall health and well-being.

This year, proceeds will be donated to the University Medical Center Foundation to assist the Harnar Burn Care Center in funding compression garments for their patients. A burn patient needs a minimum of two garments for continuous wear 23 hours a day. Costs range from $150 to $200 for a shirt. The Student Physical Therapy Association raised more than $2,000 for the center.

About 50 people participated in last year’s PT Classic. This year, more than 100 people participated, including weekend warriors, students, faculty, the Texas Tech Cycling Team, the Texas Tech Triathlon Team, local cycling associations and local Kona Ironman David Preston.

Grajeda said increased sponsorship, communication and advertising helped peak more interest in the event.

“The amount we have been able to donate has been steadily increasing every year, and this year we expect to continue that trend,” Grajeda said.

Winners received custom goniometers, devices that measure range of motion. Awards were given to the top female and male finishers in each event:

Women

• 5K run: Rebecca Cooper
• 25-mile bike ride: Sandra Torres
• 50-mile bike ride: Katy White

Men

• 5K run: Lucas Morris
• 25-mile bike ride: Jeremy Brozo
• 50-mile bike ride: Cam Mencio

The 2011 PT Classic was sponsored by the South Plains District of the Texas Physical Therapy Association, Broadway Bikes, Complete Nutrition, South Plains Cycles, Bless Your Heart, Lalande Financial, Sprouts, College Flowers, Road ID, The Wall Fitness Club, DFC Cycles and Fitness and UMC Northstar/Team Rehab.