ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The Food Bank of the Southern Tier's annual charity bike race has gone virtual.

The yearly Tour de Keuka ride typically begins in Hammondsport and travels around Keuka Lake. But because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the race is online through July 18. This year, the Food Bank is challenging the community to set a goal to ride, run, or walk any distance, while raising funds for neighbors in need.

New this year, participants can choose their distance and complete it at their own pace. Mileage can be completed over a period of time, or all at one, indoors or outdoors.

One in eight people in the Southern Tier struggle with hunger, and that need has grown exponentially amid the current health crisis.

According to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, every virtual cyclist raises enough funds to provide at least 450 meals for local residents in need.

To register for Tour de Keuka, click here.