Looking for an idea to get the family together for some recreation, exercise and family fun? Well, the Tour of Missouri folks have just the ticket. Actually, no ticket is required.
Just gather up the family, with bikes and helmets and join others for some family fun. The Tour of Missouri Local Organizing Committee (LOC) ancillary coordinators Paul Joyner of Rolla and Dominic DeLuca have set up weekly family bike rides. The event is free and open to all bicycle riders.

The first ride is set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 3 at the SplashZone in Ber Juan Park in Rolla. Families will meet in the Splash Zone parking lot. The initial ride is approximately 1.8 miles around the fitness trail around the park.

The rides are scheduled to be held every Tuesday through September 2. The second ride will be held in St. James.

The community of Rolla will host the 2008 Tour of Missouri finish on September 11 and St. James will host the start the next morning on September 12. The second annual Tour of Missouri is a world class pro cycling event bringing thousands of visitors to both communities from around the United States and around the world.

One of the goals of the Tour of Missouri is to increase tourism for the state of Missouri and improve the health and wellness of its citizens.

“In recognition and anticipation of these efforts,” we are sponsoring these Family Fun Bicycle Rides,” said Joyner. ”These rides are geared to be family friendly and we will alternate starts between Rolla and St. James on a weekly basis.”

Joyner emphasized that all levels of riders, beginner to advanced, are welcome to join in. Any type of bike, whether it has training wheels or an advanced road bike system, can be utilized.

Each ride will have an experienced cyclist as a leader and a “caboose” so that no one is left behind on these friendly paced excursions. Many rides will take place on “closed courses” with no traffic and will be suitable for families and children.

Riders will need to bring a bicycle in good working condition, a helmet and a positive, fun attitude.

The rides are free of charge and will often include opportunities to earn free or discounted merchandise from local sponsors. Route 66 Bicycles, 509 West Fifth St., Rolla will offer a 20% discount off the purchase of a bicycle helmet to anyone who clips this information and brings it in to them. Additionally Route 66 Bicycles ill offer assistance to riders during the Tuesday evening rides, while showcasing cycling items.
For further information contact Joyner at (573) 429-2272 or DeLuca at (573) 263-1033. The second bike ride is set for Tuesday, June 10 in St. James. The details will be forthcoming.