Paul Anderson Youth Home bicyclists in Gainesville Sun.

VIDALIA - At fourteen, Andy started abusing drugs and alcohol. After dropping out of two residential programs, Andy went to the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) as an angry 17-year-old. Midway through his 20 months at the PAYH, Andy biked over 500 miles in the Paul Anderson Cycling Challenge, an accomplishment that helped redefine his life.

Paul Anderson, the 1956 Olympic Gold Medalist, started the Paul Anderson Youth Home in 1961. The PAYH is a Christian alternative to juvenile and adult correctional facilities for young men between the ages of 16 and 21, the majority of whom are court-ordered. The program has been a haven for more than 1,000 adolescents and their families.

As part of the rehabilitation process, the PAYH offers opportunities for young men to participate in events such as the Paul Anderson Cycling Challenge. This 500-mile bike ride through Georgia teaches fortitude, discipline, teamwork, and endurance. The young men train for months prior and then set off on a journey they never thought possible. A 2008 alumni rider commented "I learned a life long trait on this ride and that was perseverance. The mountains and hills of life might get tough, but if you have faith in God and surround yourself with others that will encourage you, there will always be victory in the end."

Three PAYH alumni riders will be joining for portions of the 2009 Cycling Challenge. "Changing lives is the main reason for the Paul Anderson Cycling Challenge. This year's participants will always remember what they accomplished during these six days." said Drew Read, the youth home's Chief Operating Officer.

The ride is scheduled to begin on Friday, pass through Rome, Gainesville, Athens, Savannah, and other places before ending in Vidalia on October 8. Each day of the ride, blog posts and videos will be updated on the Paul Anderson Cycling Challenge website. PAYH staff, current residents, and alumni will be speaking at churches and civic clubs along the way to raise awareness of the ministry's work with youth and families.

The riders will pass through Gainesville Sunday on the the third leg of their journey between Amicalola Falls State Park and Athens.

Anyone interested in winning a Trek road bike can register at . While online, meet the 2009 participants on the Paul Anderson Cycling Challenge, sponsor a rider, and follow their progress.