NORMAN, Okla. - Andy Armstrong, director of marketing, North America, for York Unitary Products, part of the Building Efficiency Group of Johnson Controls, will endure a 50-mile uphill bicycle race to raise $18,000 for the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Oklahoma.

The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic in Durango, Colo., takes place Saturday, May 26.

“It all started with a simple conversation about hobbies with Jim and Dave Probst,” Armstrong said of the business associates from Quality Temperature Maintenance, a York dealer in Phoenix. “I wasn’t sure I would have the physical endurance to do it at first, but the more I thought about how much the training would benefit me personally, and how this could be a great way to raise support for a child with a life-threatening illness, the more committed I became to doing it. That was over 2,000 miles and more than 25 pounds ago.”

Armstrong intends to raise awareness and additional support for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He expects to raise $18,000 for the foundation - eclipsing his initial goal of $10,000. He gives credit to the generous contributions of his sponsors.

Publication date: 04/16/2007