We're less than 2 days away from one of the biggest cycling events in the country! A lot has changed in our world since the start of the last El Tour de Tucson. Despite the recession, this years race is only 200 riders short.
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Scott Seaman, of Oro Valley Bicycle said, "Absolutely. We see a lot of business as El Tour gets closer. Locally, lots of people start ramping up their bikes, and of course all the out of town business. It's definitely big."
The route is a total of 109 miles of beautiful Arizona desert. For John and Genie Carpenter of Tucson, this is their first time riding. They will stick to the 35 mile route.
Ken Kobus will do the 109 mile ride, and traveled to Tucson from the Bay Area.
"The weather right now is really nice. I was kind of concerned about what it would be like", said Kobus. The high on Saturday is expected to be 76 degrees.
This year, an 8 mile fun ride has been added, there have been a few minor changes made to the route, and there will be additional Sheriff's Deputies positioned on Ina road, where a hit and run driver hit several cyclists last year.
8,400 Riders from 40 states and several countries will flock to Tucson, ready to cross that finish line. There are about 200 spots left for the race. Beginners are welcome. You can register in person at the Tucson Convention Center.
Cost is $130, but also goes to benefit the Tu Nidito organization.
If you're planning on driving around town on Saturday, there will be major traffic restrictions. Click on the link below for a map and restriction times:
http://www.perimeterbicycling.com/!ETT/2009_ETT_Route_map.pdf
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we've linked you to a map -- and times -- on our website... Kgun 9 .com
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cott Shipman, of El Tour said, "We are very pleased given the economy. It's telling us, people are still getting on their bikes."
