THE BRONX — Thousands of cyclists are expected to bike through The Bronx on Oct. 23 for the 22nd annual Tour de Bronx, the largest free cycling event in New York State.
This year's event will kick off at 8 a.m. at Harris Field on Bedford Park Boulevard West between Paul and Goulden avenues, and bikers will have the choice of taking part in either a 25-mile ride or a 40-mile ride.
The 25-mile route will take cyclists through Mott Haven, Clason Point and Pelham Bay Park, while the 40-mile route will wind through Fort Schuyler in Throggs Neck, City Island, Woodlawn and Riverdale.
Both routes end at the New York Botanical Garden, where riders will be greeted with live music and a complimentary souvenir T-shirt.
The Bronx Tourism Council and Bronx Borough President's Office established the Tour de Bronx in 1994 as a way to promote health in the borough and tour its waterfronts, greenways and neighborhoods.
The event has grown tremendously over the years and saw a record breaking number of participants in 2014 with more than 7,600 cyclists, according to the Bronx Tourism Council.
The Tour runs until 5 p.m., and interested cyclists can register online here.
Bikers younger than 16 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and although it is recommended that cyclists bring their own helmets, there will be free helmets at the event as well.
Tour officials are also looking for marshals who will help ensure the event runs smoothly by helping riders with directions and flat tires. People interested in being a marshal for the Tour can sign up to do so here.
Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. described the Tour de Bronx as one of his favorite events of the year, saying it is a great way to improve health in the borough and highlight its sights and history.
"Once again, we are welcoming riders from across the region and around the globe to see The Bronx as they have never seen it before,” he said in a statement.
