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Tour de Cape ready to hit the streets

3 min read

The streets of south Cape Coral will be filled with runners and bicyclists next weekend for the 19th annual Tour de Cape.
The event runs Jan. 16-17 and gives local residents the chance to compete in a 5K Run/Walk on Saturday or ride 15, 30, 60 or 100 miles in a bike course on Sunday. Competitors of all skills are being asked to participate in one or both events hosted by the City of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department.
Thousands of people have signed up for the Tour de Cape over the past two decades.
“We think the Tour de Cape has a long- standing tradition, and we are looking forward to a great weekend,” said Todd King, special events coordinator.
Registrations for the 5K on Saturday is $15 in advance and $20 on the day of the event. The fee includes a continental breakfast and a goody bag with a T-shirt for the first 1,000 participants.
The bike ride on Sunday is $35 for pre-registration with a lunch, $30 pre-registration without a lunch and $45 on the day of the event with no lunch included. This fee also includes a goody bag with a T-shirt for the first 1,000 participants, a continental breakfast, maps of the route and aid stations with snacks and beverages.
Live music will be provided after the bike ride from noon to 5 p.m.
The parks and recreation department are also kicking off Family Fun Day where families can participate in the 7 mile ride at 10 a.m. for $10 per person — including a T-shirt, hot dog, chips and beverage.
King said Family Fun Day was created to get more families involved with the event.
“One of the reasons we added it is that we wanted to create a family friendly bicycle ride,” he said. “We wanted them to be able to participate in Tour de Cape. It will maybe inspire them in the future to take one of the bigger rides.”
Registrations are continuing until the day of the event. King said he expects 1,000 riders and 400 runners over next weekend.
Funds raised from the Tour de Cape benefit city-hosted events that don’t make a profit.
“The money parks and recreation makes goes to the park system as well as events that don’t generate money such as the Veteran’s Day parade,” said King.
All riders are asked to bring helmets for the event. Register online at www.active.com or call 573-3123.
The Tour de Cape leaves from Cape Harbour and for more information on routes or directions, visit www.capeharbour.com.