AKRON, OH, JUNE 22, 2008 - NBA All-Star LeBron James and The LeBron James Family Foundation hosted the State Farm “King for Kids Bikeathon,” which raised more than $150,000 for the Akron Area YMCA, the Akron Urban League and the LeBron James Family Foundation, which will use its share to establish a grant program to benefit other non-profit organizations in Northeast Ohio. The popular family-friendly fundraising event, which was made possible with the support and cooperation of the City of Akron, recognized and rewarded Akron-area children who have achieved academic success, improved their physical fitness and made important contributions to the community. State Farm, the nation’s top insurer, was the title sponsor for the “King for Kids Bikeathon,” which attracted more than 2,500 riders.

LeBron James was joined by Cleveland Cavaliers Daniel Gibson along with the Miami Heat’s Dwayne Wade. Cavaliers Head Coach Mike Brown, Campy Russell and actor Lil’ JJ also participated. “Being able to honor the kids who have achieved success on so many different levels and are contributing to my hometown of Akron is really important to me,” said James. “I’m thrilled that my Foundation is helping the community by bringing together families for a great day.”

James kicked-off the event, which was highlighted by three separate rides honoring different groups of Akron kids. The Kids’ Ride (1.5 miles) was for 300 students between the ages of 9-11 who have demonstrated academic achievement and other markers of success in school. Each child received a new bicycle and helmet. The Family-Friendly Ride (3 miles) was led by 100 students between the ages of 12-14 who have significantly improved their physical fitness. Each of these participants received a new bike and helmet. The Main Ride (8 miles) was an eight-mile route from downtown Akron throughout the city. After the rides were completed, the public was invited to a Lock 3 Community Celebration featuring Nickelodeon characters, a NASCAR simulator courtesy of Cub Cadet and a thrilling drumline showcase. A raffle of special memorabilia also took place.

Serving as sponsors for the Bikeathon were State Farm and FSN Ohio, the exclusive television sponsor, as well as the Coca-Cola Company, Nike, Nickelodeon, City of Akron, Summa Health System, SummaCare, Quicken Loans, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Cub Cadet, Goodyear, Buckeye Community Health Plan, Hitchcock Fleming & Associates, Upper Deck, Squire Sanders & Dempsey L.L.P., Cannondale, Brennan Family Foundation and Eddy’s Bike Shop.

About The LeBron James Family Foundation
Founded in 2004, the LeBron James Family Foundation empowers children and single-parent households through innovative programming and initiatives, strengthening the ties between family members and building hope through education, physical fitness and better health for those who are dealing with adversity. Among the Foundation’s most important national programs are the Playground Build Initiative, which is focused on developing family-centered safe play spaces where children can be physically active in a multi-dimensional environment that encourages creative play; and “Meal & a Movie” events, which provide disadvantaged families with the opportunity to spend quality time together by enjoying a special meal and viewing a not-yet-released family-friendly movie. In addition, the Foundation hosts the “King for Kids Bikeathon,” a fun-filled family event that honors area children while promoting physical fitness and raising awareness and critical funding for important community initiatives focused on empowering children and families. For more information on the LeBron James Family Foundation, call 216-325-0972 or go online to LeBron.msn.com.