Tour de Palm Springs Events Start Friday

By City News Service:

PALM SPRINGS, CA- Events are scheduled to get underway Friday for the 18th annual Tour de Palm Springs bicycle road rides and fundraiser.

With online pre-registration closed, people wishing to take part can show up in person between noon and 8 p.m. Friday, or after 6 a.m. Saturday, at the event’s administration area on North Palm Canyon Drive and Tahquitz Road.

Visitors on Friday can also visit the Vendor Expo, featuring merchandise from local nonprofit groups, bicycle gear and apparel, and a food court. The Vendor Expo will operate from noon to 8 p.m. Friday, and 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, on North Palm Canyon between Tahquitz and Alejo roads.

On Saturday, the first race -- the 100-mile “Escape the City Lights Ride” -- begins at 6:30 a.m., followed by the start of progressively shorter races throughout the day. Other events include a 50-, 25- and 10-mile ride. There’s also a 1.5-mile walk or 3-mile ride event that begins immediately after the 10-mile riders leave the course.

The 2014 event was marred by the death of a participant and city officials increased efforts to ensure safety last year.

Proceeds benefit a variety of Coachella Valley charities, and organizers say the event has raised more than $3 million since 1999.

For information, visit tourdepalmsprings.com.

(Image via Shutterstock)