Bikers went the distance for The Centre Against Abuse in a fundraiser with a second aim of promoting fitness.Some 85 riders took part in Sunday’s Century Ride and helped raise an estimated $10,000 for the organisation.About 45 riders “braved the exceptionally cold morning air and the threat of rain to start their 100-mile cycle ride at 6.30am”, said the Centre’s executive director Laurie Shiell.The remaining cyclists rode 15-, 25-, 50- or 75-mile circuits.Event organiser Aideen Ratteray Pryse said: “Most of the riders enjoyed the adventure and many left inquiring when the next Century Ride would be held.“Many novice riders tackled the 15-mile route for their first time, and while they came in wearily, they all had smiles on their faces.”She continued: “Friends came out in groups; biking clubs showed up in throngs and families encouraged each other along the route.“The event even saw our youngest riders of two and four years old being towed by their mum and dad. The Governor [George] and Mrs Fergusson also got into the spirit of the event and pulled out their bikes and rode for the Centre Against Abuse.”Mrs Ratteray Pryse extended a “humongous thank you” to participants, Parks Department employees, the Bermuda Police Service and others who helped make the event a success.The Centre has an annual budget of $500,000, “which is needed to help end domestic abuse on the Island”, said Ms Shiell. “Every pledge of support — large or small will help us give assistance to those in desperate need.”The organisation provides services for men and women. Funds raised in this most recent event will be put towards the Centre’s safe house for women and children who have fled from violent homes.