The annual Tour de Scottsdale benefitting the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy will switch gears this year to navigate the evolving coronavirus pandemic. After careful consideration for public health and safety, DC Ranch made the difficult decision to cancel the in-person event on Market Street. A virtual event, held October 12-18, will allow hundreds of road warriors to keep the cycling spirit alive, stay active and healthy, while still supporting the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy.
Riders will have several registration options to complete ride miles on their own. Participants can ride the official Tour de Scottsdale courses, log miles around their city, or even in their home on a trainer. In addition to the traditional 30 and 70-mile rides, the virtual event will introduce a new 15-mile course and 5-mile fit family ride.
The event beneficiary is the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, a nonprofit conservation organization that protects and promotes the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in North Scottsdale. With over 30,500 acres and 200 miles of trails, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is the largest urban preserve in North America and the fourth largest urban preserve in the world. The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is dedicated to preserving the Sonoran Desert and mountains. The nonprofit protects this living treasure and offers events and activities in the Preserve so that everyone can enjoy a family-friendly, natural experience, according to the Conservancy.
Now in its 17th 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.
Those who register and complete any of the distances will receive a commemorative, distance-unique medal, a virtual goodie bag and perks—along with all the bragging rights. Registration is now open. Visit TourdeScottsdale.net for details.
