16th Annual Tour de Scottsdale benefitting the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy will have nearly 2,000 cyclists riding its 30- and 70-mile courses
Hosted by DC Ranch, the annual Tour de Scottsdale features a 70-mile and 30-mile ride with up to 2,000 cyclists gathering on Market Street. The event begins at 6:30 a.m. on October 13 and allows riders to enjoy spectacular scenery while supporting the legacy and protecting the future of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
The event beneficiary is the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, a nonprofit conservation organization that protects and promotes the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in North Scottsdale. Now in its 16th year, the Tour de Scottsdale donates 100 percent of sponsorship proceeds and a portion of registration fees to the Conservancy and has raised over $600,000 to date. Lori Calhoun from the Conservancy says, “With the money raised from the Tour we can develop and grow our education programs. The programs both in and out of the classroom will reach thousands of students and preserve users. Some of whom might not otherwise have the chance to develop a knowledge and love for the vast and marvelous makeup of the Sonoran Desert in which they live.”
Family and friends will cheer on the riders and enjoy the fun on Market Street in DC Ranch. Live music by the 70’s All Stars hits the stage at 8 a.m. as riders return. New this year, a beer garden sponsored by Hensley will be the perfect spot to sip a cold brew with proceeds benefitting the Conservancy. Local merchants and restaurants will also have special promotions. Riders can enjoy stretch and recovery areas, chair massages and lounge spaces to unwind.
“The Tour de Scottsdale is a unique event in that you circumnavigate the very thing that our event benefits – the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. It serves as a stunning desert backdrop while riders tackle steady climbs and sweeping hills. I enjoy seeing the different generations and levels of riders who come together for a wonderful cause in our community,” says Gabi Enriquez, Tour spokesperson. To register for the race, volunteer during the event or find more information, please visit TourdeScottsdale.net.
