Smell the Flowers

Most of us spend a lot of time driving past chain stores on roads clogged with exhaust-spewing SUVs, in areas that offer little to view besides concrete, steel and rows of houses. But beyond the big-box stores lies nearby sprawling beauty. For instance, have you seen the sunflower field near Hillsdale Lake? Depending on the strength of your leg muscles and your butt’s commitment, you could view the tall and proud state flower of Kansas from your bicycle seat during the Sunflowers to Roses Bike Tour. Routes range from an easy four miles to a sweaty 72 miles for this charity ride benefiting the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Cancer Action and the KU Cancer Center. All routes depart from Bike Source (11500 West 135th Street in Overland Park, 913-451-1515). The day, which begins at 7:30 a.m., ends with a post-ride party. Cost to participate is $30 in advance or $40 at the starting line. Register at sunflowerstoroses.org.— Crystal K. Wiebe

Sun., Aug. 15, 7:30 a.m., 2010