Tour de Cape set for next weekend
Cyclists and runners from near and far will gather next weekend for the 29th annual Tour de Cape, a weekend event featuring fun for beginners to experts alike.
The scene-stealing Cape Harbour will serve as the backdrop and starting line for participants, as they embark on the 5K run/walk and 3-mile Family Ride on Saturday, or are taking on the either 15-, 30-, 62- or 100-mile tour course Sunday.
“This is a popular event each year in the Cape, and can be the start of a healthy new year for all those with resolutions,” said Todd King, special events coordinator with the city of Cape Coral. “It’s a good, healthy start to 2020.”
The event wouldn’t be complete without a bit of pre-event fun and a kick-off celebration will be held at Cape Harbour on Friday, Jan. 17, from 5 to 8 p.m. Participants can pick up packets, maps and T-shirts. Fathoms Restaurant & Bar and The French Press will offer discounts to those who show their event registration.
The 5K will take place on Saturday, Jan. 18, beginning at 8 a.m. Check-in time is between 6:30 and 7:45.
A continental breakfast will be available for runners.
The 3-mile Family Ride will take off following the 5K at 10:30 a.m., as kids can ride for $10 (adult riders with children are free) and will receive a T-shirt (while supplies last) and lunch.
Sunday will feature the Tour de Cape bike rides. Those making the 62/100 mile journeys will have an 8 a.m. start time, with the 15/30 mile riders pedaling away at 8:30.
King said the different tour routes offered makes the event inclusive for riders of all skill level and experience — another reason why the Tour de Cape draws more than 1,000 athletes each year.
“The four different rides allows riders to stay within their abilities,” King said. “Just about anyone can take part in a leg of the race. It can be the start of your riding career or the beginning of a new fitness adventure personally.”
The tours will be mapped out in the west and north sections of Cape Coral.
This is not a closed course event, but safety for the riders is a top priority for King and his colleagues.
“We have a great course supported by the Cape Coral Police Department,” King said. “They prioritize the runners and patrol the course area effectively. It really gives riders a sense of safety as well.”
Though the tour is not a race and no prizes are given to the fastest overall riders, you can still time your ride for personal goals via a timing chip (additional cost).
There is also the “trek speed zone” where your final mile will be timed, no matter which tour ride you sign up for. Organizers call this a fun challenge and bikers are eligible for a prize drawing at the conclusion of the tour.
Riders on Sunday will be treated to lunch following their tour from either Fathoms or Rum Runners. Fathoms is buffet style, while Rum Runners is providing a limited menu. Fathoms is open for service at 10:30 a.m., while Rum Runners opens at 11.
King said the location, along with on-site restaurants being a part of the event, makes it that much more special for participants.
“We have a great partnership with Cape Harbour, Fathoms and Rum Runners,” King said. “It’s not your typical lunch service for an event of this kind. It’s a bit upscale and offers adult beverages as well. You can enjoy your ride with the people you rode with, your family and friends.”
All that’s left is to hope that Mother Nature doesn’t damper the event, as it did last year.
“We’re hoping for great weather,” King said.
More information, maps and registration can be found at www.tourdecape.net
You can preregister at Cape Harbour at the kick-off party on Jan 17 and in person on the day of the event. Rates will increase for the 5K and tours as the event date approaches.
Cape Harbour is at 5848 Cape Harbour Drive.
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