Sue Kahler would like to see more women pedal up to the starting line of the Owasco Flyer Cycling Road Race this Sunday.

For most bicycle races Kahler has participated in over the years, she said she has noticed just a handful of women racing in a sport that could involve many more females.

Kahler has motivated several women in the Owasco Flyer Cycling Club to race for the first time during the

2007 Owasco Flyer Cycling Road Race this Sunday, at Emerson Park.

Bikers of all levels and ages are encouraged to race and enjoy the scenic ride southward along Owasco Lake.

“It's a great race for anyone who wants to try. Some of the Flyers haven't raced before and have decided to try this race,” Kahler said.

Last year 186 bikers participated in the annual race and only 15 were women.

The 36-mile race begins at Emerson Park and ends in Moravia on Swartout Road.

Kahler, race co-director, said that the popularity and momentum of the race has built up again in the last few years.

“The popularity dwindled down and now it's coming back,” Kahler said. “A lot has to do with the popularity of triathlons.”

The race is called a citizen's race, meaning anyone can qualify to compete.

The directors have divided the race into six age groups ranging from 19 years old and younger to 59 years old and older.

Each age group qualifies for a winning from the $1,100 cash purse.

“You would surprise yourself what you can do,” said Linda Tersegno. “You get your adrenaline going.”

If Lisa Scialdone crosses the finish line of the race, she will complete her first bike race.

Scialdone, a club member, has been riding for two years and said she's still debating whether she will race.

“It seems like a good challenge in the backyard,” Scialdone said. “It's a great sport and so much fun.”

Average bikers complete the race in about two hours while winners usually cross the finish line in about 1.5 hours.

Bikers can register for the race online at bikereg.com for $25. There is no mail-in registration. Registration on the day of the race costs $35.

Proceeds from the race benefit sponsoring underprivileged children for Camp Y Owasco.

The race begins at 10 a.m. and riders are encouraged to meet at Emerson Park between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m.

Staff writer Kristina Martino can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 238 or

kristina.martino@lee.net

If you go

What: Owasco Flyer Cycling Road Race

When: 10 a.m. Sunday

Where: Race begins at Emerson Park and ends at Swartout Road, Moravia

Cost: Pre-register online at bikereg.com for $25, race day registration costs $35

For details: Visit www.owascoflyer.com