.png)
Cyclist start off in the 18th annual Tour de Bronx Sunday. (Benjamin Chasteen/The Epoch Times)
NEW YORK—Advocacy group Transport Alternatives (TA) hosted the Tour de Bronx over the weekend as an enjoyable way to get out, get exercise, see the sites of the Bronx, and have a bit of fun.
Sunday was a perfect day to be out cycling with the fresh air filling the lungs, the sun warming, and people out and about in the city.
“I just want to have fun, I wanted to challenge myself,” said Noah Felman of the Bronx, who joined the 40-mile race. Another route offered to participants was 25 miles.
The Tour de Bronx, now in its 18th year has become the largest free cycling event in the state with 6,000 cyclists partaking. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. held the event in conjunction with Transport Alternatives.
Daryl Valerio from New Jersey, participates in his first Tour de Bronx, Sunday in the Bronx. (Benjamin Chasteen/The Epoch Times)
“The one thing that [Borough President Diaz] loves the most about this is that it gives people an opportunity to see the Bronx,” said John DeSio, director of communications for the Bronx.
Beginning at the Bronx County Building, the routes lead the cyclists along Soundview Greenway to the recently declared national historic landmark Woodlawn Cemetery, and along a portion of the Sheridan Expressway. Participants got a chance to see historic districts and waterfront.
Cyclist prepare to start in the 18th annual Tour de Bronx in the Bronx Sunday. (Benjamin Chasteen/The Epoch Times)
The race attracted a wide range of participants, from those out to have fun to those who were serious about competing and training.
“This is my first time ridding in the Tour de Bronx, I wanted to do it because I am preparing to race in the 110-mile Gran Fondo New York event in May of 2013,” said Daryl Valerio of New Jersey.
Transportation Alternatives
TA envisions more economical, healthier, and environmentally friendly ways to travel. Since beginning its work in 1973, it have prompted improvements in the city by rethinking the streetscape and public places to provide a more user-friendly riding and pedestrian environment and one that encourages public transportation.“It really has been great to be part of that movement to bring the joy and efficiency of cycling to peoples’ everyday lives,” said Transport Alternatives Executive Director Paul Steely White.
The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.
Please send news tips to nyc_news@epochtimes.com
