The Hotter ‘N Hell Hundred (HHH) is one of the largest cycling events in the USA. Held in Wichita Falls, TX in August each year, the main event is the 100 mile cycling race. Riders can also choose the 25 mile, 50 mile, or 100 K course or the off-road bicycle race. This year the event drew 11,205 riders and 23 of those were members of “Race for Grace,” the first ever charity cycling team allowed to participate in HHH.

The cycling team was sponsored by International Child Care (ICC) and was dedicated to raising funds for ICC’s major mission project Grace Children’s Hospital in Haiti. Grace Children’s Hospital was founded in 1967 and focuses on treatment of children with tuberculosis (TB) and other childhood diseases. Outpatient clinics also provide vital health services to over 300 patients per day.

Ellen Palmer (pictured at left) is an inspiring lady who has been involved with ICC for many years. She first told me about this event in June and although I wasn’t able to ride myself, I visited with the team at a post-race party hosted by Lysle Huddleston (right).

Cyclists proudly wore bandannas with the Haitian flag during the race to symbolize their mission. The riders not only completed the cycling event, they also worked very hard at fundraising and publicity for this cause. They solicited sponsors and did other fundraising projects prior to the race. Volunteers staffed the booth held at the expo and talked with hundreds of people about ICC and Grace Children’s. Through the efforts of these dedicated volunteers $23,000 was raised to help children in Haiti. Way to go Race for Grace team!

The ICC website has a great recap of the event including personal stories from some of the riders and photos: 2007 Race for Grace Success Story