CLEARFIELD – Jeff Miller of Lewistown continued his reign as King of the Mountain while Windber resident Pam Milavec was crowned queen Sunday at the fifth annual KOM bicycle race to benefit Habitat for Humanity of Clearfield County.
Miller made the five-mile climb up Rockton Mountain in 17 minutes and 14 seconds while Milavec\’s time was just over 25 minutes. Miller has taken the title in all five editions of the race. Each won $200 and a one-of-a-kind jersey. Curves of Clearfield sponsored the queen\’s title; the king\’s award was presented anonymously in memory of Ken Rishel.
Jim Dieringer of DuBois won the Up the Hill, Not Over it Award for the best time for any participant older than 60. The prize, the winner\’s age in dollars, is sponsored by the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging. Dieringer donated his winnings to HFHCC.
A total of 66 riders made 70 trips up the mountain as four competed twice, first on their road bikes and then on mountain bikes. Last year, 60 riders went 63 times.
\”We\’re very excited by the turnout. Last year was out breakthrough year when we saw a significant jump in the riders and this year, we increased again. Our unique little race is gaining in stature in the racing world and that means more for Habitat,\” said HFHCC President John Farr.
More than $7,000 was raised for the organization through sponsorships and donations by businesses and individuals from throughout the county.
\”It\’s important that our donors and the community know the money we receive goes almost exclusively for building materials because we have very little overhead. And, with specific sponsors for the major prizes, we can channel even more to our effort,\” Farr noted.
HFHCC recently broke ground on its ninth project, a home on Clay Street in Clearfield\’s East End. Meetings to begin the selection process for a family for the house are slated for Oct. 17 and 26 at 7 p.m. at the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center.
\”Habitat is not a handout. The families must give at least 500 hours to a HFH project and repay a monthly mortgage,\” he added.