Houston's annual cycling event, Tour de Houston Presented by Apache Corporation, is rolling out a fresh start and finish this spring. Scheduled for Sunday, April 7, the race has planted its wheels at Discovery Green and Avenida Plaza, as Mayor John Whitmire and Apache CEO John Christmann announced earlier this week.
"Tour de Houston is the perfect opportunity to experience the unique attributes of our city - from Downtown to the Bay Area while raising funds for Re-Plant Houston - and I encourage cyclists of all skill levels to join the ride," Mayor Whitmire told the media while discussing the event's significance and inviting riders of varying expertise to participate in the 17th installment of the ride. The revamped event promises to not only challenge participants across three distances, but also to celebrate their efforts with an enhanced post-ride party featuring expanded culinary options and entertainment.
With a 7:30 a.m. departure for the 60-mile ride, a 7:45 a.m. start for the 40-mile route, and an 8:00 a.m. launch for the 20-mile distance, cyclists have the opportunity to not just pedal their way through Houston's streets, but also to train for the upcoming MS 150. Along the way, they’ll find added amenities including seating and valet bike racks plus comprehensive support from bike mechanics, police, and medical teams at strategic points such as Houston Botanic Gardens, Lone Star Flight Museum, and Clear Lake Park.
Christmann, representing the backbone support of the Apache Corporation, expressed pride in partnering with the City of Houston, "The Tour de Houston bike ride showcases our city’s historic neighborhoods and benefits the Houston Parks and Recreation Department directly supporting reforestation and the enhancement of green spaces throughout our community," he explained. The company is no stranger to greening initiatives; their Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program has to date generously contributed over 5 million trees across the U.S., with 450,000 rooted in the greater Houston area.
For those eager to saddle up and ride, registration is now open, and they can dodge the day-of hassle by signing up online at tourdehouston.org. Packet pickup for registered participants is available at City Hall on April 4 and 5 and at Sun and Ski on April 6, with the final opportunity on the day of the event beginning at 6:30 a.m. at Discovery Green.
Among the event sponsors listed are heavy-hitters such as Michelob Ultra, Sun and Ski Sports, and Raising Cane's, contributing to an event that not only celebrates Houston's thriving cycling community but also contributes to the city's wider environmental efforts. For additional details, participants can call 832.393.0868 or visit the Tour de Houston website.
