Around 200 cyclists and more than 50 teams will pedal through the streets of Columbia on May 21 in the 25th annual Tour de Cure, an event that began in 1991 and has raised more than $250 million to help the American Diabetes Association. Participants of all levels and local businesses can join together for Stop Diabetes® while raising money for diabetes research, education and the American Diabetes Association.
This year, Tour de Cure will take place at the Robert Mills House in downtown Columbia and include a 100-Mile Century Ride, a 65-Mile Metric Century Ride, a 35-Mile Ride, a 12-Mile Ride, a 4-Mile Family Ride and a new 2-Mile Family Walk. Stationary bikes will also be available during the event. The 100-Mile Century Ride travels with a police escort through the city to the Congaree National Forest. Cyclists on this route and the 65-Mile Metric Century Ride will be provided with water, electrolytes, fruit, snacks and a lunch at the Post-Ride Party. The 35-Mile Ride follows greenways and historic sites in the City of Columbia, and the 12-Mile Ride visits locations such as the State House, Vista Greenway, Governor’s Mansion and Williams Brice Stadium.
Tour de Cure will, for the first time, include a 2-Mile Family Walk, which has been added to the 4-Mile Family ride led by Mayor Steve Benjamin. This ride and walk will consist of a police escort down Main Street, through the State House grounds, the University of South Carolina, the Vista, the Greenway tunnel under the city and around the Governor’s Mansion. The 2-Mile Family Walk and 4-Mile Family Ride offer an activity that the whole family can do together. Unlike the other routes, these two events do not require that the participants have a fundraising goal to participate. Prior to the Family Ride, there will be a Bike Rodeo where cyclists will learn bicycling skills and rider safety and can attempt to beat a challenging obstacle course.
The City of Columbia Police Department will ensure that all routes are eligible for travel prior to the race so that participants have a safe and enjoyable ride. Visit SCTourDeCure.com for more information about this event.
