CCE
Cyclists for Cultural Exchange
31st
Strawberry Fields Forever
Annual FUNdraiser ride
Join us!
Strawberry Fields Forever
is an annual benefit bike ride through some of the most beautiful regions of Santa Cruz County.
31st annual ride
It will be tons of fun this year again with outrageously scenic cycling for our worthwhile cause.
Each route includes rest stops with food, fruit, and beverages every 20-30 miles.
Lunch will be provided on the 100-km and 100-mile rides.
SAG support is available for equipment and physical breakdowns.
Let’s party! We all gather for a hot meal to greet you at the end of the ride. Our signature strawberries dipped in chocolate ganache served with fresh whipped cream complete the menu.
Starting fee $75
in support of our non-profit mission
Limited same-day registration as available:
$100 cash or check.
Registration opening will be announced.
Important facts
Date: Sunday, 15 May 2022.
Same-day registration: Only if spots are still available on the day of the event.
$100 in cash or credit card only.
Children under 13 accompanied by a parent, no charge. Children must register.
No refunds. The ride will take place, rain or shine.
Starting location:
Pajaro Valley High School
500 Harkins Slough Rd, Watsonville, CA, 95076.
Weather forecast.
Want to help?
This event is dependent on you, our faithful volunteers who help manage and support the participants.
Undecided? More info here.
Registration opening will be announced.
Collectibles 2020
Custom-designed T-shirts from past rides available at check-in for just $20.
First come, first served.
Frequently asked questions
Can I register the day of the ride?
Probably not, as we have usually been fortunate in the past to host a booked-out event.
Registration closes [TBD].
Same-day registration is possible only if spots are still available on the day of the event.
Cost: $100 per person (cash or credit card only) on a “first come, first served” basis.
Is there a discount for early registration?
Yes, so don’t miss the early-bird registration deadline.
Can I get a refund?
Sorry, no. The ride will take place rain or shine, so Strawberry Fields Forever cannot issue refunds.
Can I change my T shirt/jersey size?
No jerseys this year. No pre-orders for tees. Tees available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the ride for $20.
What if I forget to pick up my T shirt or jersey?
Send us your confirmation along with a $10.00 check payable to Cyclists for Cultural Exchange, PO Box 3426, Santa Cruz, CA 95063. We will mail your item to you.
How should I dress?
Santa Cruz is a coastal community. It can be cool and damp in the morning and warm and even hot later in the day. We suggest dressing in layers.
Is food provided?
Yes!
Lunch: Provided for the 100-km and 100-miles routes. Make-your-own sandwich bar. What’s not to love?
After the ride: Congratulations! A hot meal complete with our signature chocolate-dipped
strawberries and whipped cream will greet you in gratitude for your very appreciated participation.
Note: If you have specific dietary needs, you should bring your own snacks to ensure you will have adequate energy for the ride.
What do I need to bring?
You will need a photo ID for check-in. Bring cash if you would like to buy any merchandise still available after the ride. We also suggest you bring two water bottles.
Is the entire route paved?
Yes, the entire route is paved. However, Santa Cruz is a coastal community and spring weather can play havoc with road conditions.
Can I change the ride I registered for?
Yes, you may change your selection at check-in to any of our other routes.
When can I start my ride?
You can start your ride as soon as you are checked in and have your bike and bib numbers attached. Remember to bring your confirmation and ID.
100 mile: 7:00 - 8:00 a.m.
100 kilometer: 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
30 mile: 8:30 - 10:00 a.m.
All courses will close at 5:00 p.m. and there will be no SAG support after that time.
Will there be early check-in?
Yes, there will be early check-in as follows:
Can I check in for another person?
Yes; you must present a copy of a photo ID or a confirmation for that person.
What are the elevation gains on the ride?
30 mile ride: 871 ft
Will bike mechanics be available?
Yes, bike mechanics will be available at the start/finish and at each rest stop for minor repairs and adjustments. Mechanics will not be prepared to make major repairs. Check your equipment before you come to the ride. A well-maintained, well-tuned bike will make your ride safer and more enjoyable.
What is the distance between rest stops?
There will be rest stops with snacks, beverages, and toilets every 20 to 25 miles.
Where does the money go?
Funds go to support our bicycling programs (40%-45%) and other domestic and international organizations with goals similar to those of Cyclists for Cultural Exchange (40%-45%).
How can I get more involved with Cyclists for Cultural Exchange?
Great question and we’re glad you asked. We’re always looking for people interested in our programs and wanting to support our mission of promoting peace and understanding among people of different cultures around the world through our common interest in bicycling. Contact us. We particularly need volunteers to assist with the Strawberry Fields Forever fundraising event described on this page.
What time will the meal be served at the finish?
We’ll be waiting to reward your efforts with a fun meal including our signature chocolate-dipped strawberries from 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Will there be SAG support for the ride?
Yes, this is a fully supported ride. Our SAG vehicles are stationed at strategic points along the routes and dispatched by radio from our command central. Our vehicles are equipped with radios and tracking devices. We know where they are at all times. We are able to send assistance to you quickly, should you need to call. We will also have some vehicles roaming the routes.
Are accommodations available?
There are numerous accommodations available in the Watsonville area within 10 minutes of the start at Pajaro Valley High School. We suggest you google “hotels Watsonville” for further information.