BRASELTON — An estimated 1,200 riders will take part in the second year of the Jackson County Brevet (pronounced bruh-vaay) this weekend, as cycling enthusiasts gather to ride for a worthy cause.

The event, which far exceeded the expectations of founder Robert Wilhite a year ago — bringing in close to 600 riders and more than 80 volunteers — has set expectations even higher for the follow-up event, which begins 7:30 a.m. Saturday at Zion Baptist Church in Braselton.

"The biggest difference between this year and last is that we’re not going into this blind," said Wilhite, a certified USA Cycling coach from Lawrenceville who created the event to raise money for aplastic anemia research.

This year brings the addition of a breakfast for all volunteers, as well as an improved after-ride meal featuring a multitude of choices.

The event will once again feature four routes for riders of different experience levels, including a family-friendly 5-mile loop and 39-, 64- and 100-mile loops. As the first event of its kind in Jackson County, everything was new territory for event planning last year.

Hoschton resident Wayne Clayton came on board this year to assist Wilhite in route planning, plotting the most rider-friendly routes possible throughout the county.

Clayton’s 100-mile loop — otherwise known as a century — will have cyclists riding through Hoschton, Jefferson, Nicholson and parts of Talmo and Pendergrass. According to Wilhite, experienced riders could finish the course in under four hours, a notable feat in the cycling world.

If entries do not exceed 1,200 by race day Saturday, day of registration will be available. Volunteer opportunities are still available.

To register for one of the rides or for more information on the Jackson County Brevet, visit www.jacksonbrevet.com.

To inquire about volunteer opportunities, email Robert Wilhite at info@jacksonbrevet.com or call 770-634-4451.