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Tour de Peninsula Bike Ride

WEDNESDAY, 26 AUGUST 2009


SAN MATEO, Calif.—Back in a new venue after a year's hiatus, Coyote Point Park, the Tour de Peninsula (TdP) attracted 1400 riders, August 2, from across the age spectrum to rides ranging from a half-mile loop for kids up to a tough 63-miler for seasoned pedalers.

Altogether around 1600 outdoor enthusiasts came out to enjoy the offerings of Coyote Point Park, the TdP festivities, and the range of bicycle rides.

"I am delighted with the way it went. The new venue works really well, and we have had a lot of very positive feedback and suggestions. I would like to thank all those who took part, as well as all those who organized it. Special mention should go to the Parks Pledge Pedalers, who went the extra mile to raise money for Bicycle Sunday on Canada Road," said Julia Bott, executive director of the San Mateo County Parks Foundation.

The 'dirty shirt' ride attracted people of all ages. Some 30 children showed up for the kids' ride, and at the other end of the spectrum, a couple in their mid-70's, enjoyed a sunny morning's pedal through the historic parks of San Mateo County.

All experience levels were represented too, including Eric Yim of San Francisco, who had chosen to tackle the 63-mile course with a group of friends. He rode a bicycle with platform pedals.

Eric said, "It was pretty fun. That King Mountain was a killer. This is the longest bike ride I have done. I started riding for transportation when my car insurance ran out. I prepared for this one by riding Critical Mass on Friday night, I think that wore me out a bit."

Stephen Walker, 62, of San Jose, completes about eight 100-mile rides a year these days. "I've been riding the Tour de Peninsula for many years. I'm glad they have three routes now. The 63-mile route was really fun, it was well worth the effort. It was the first time I've ridden down Millbrae (Avenue) and along the path by the Bay here," he said.

An annual fixture in the Bay Area's cycling world since 1991, the Tour de Peninsula (TdP), grew to be the largest urban bicycle ride in northern California. This fully-supported ride, which starts and finishes at Coyote Point Park in San Mateo, offers:

A variety of ride options (20, 31 and 63 miles).

Short kids' ride in Coyote Point Park.

Scenic and historic route options visiting numerous San Mateo County Parks.

Mechanical assistance, rest stops with food and beverage, and a First Aid crew.

Family-friendly activities in Coyote Point Park, which includes an award-winning children's playground. Picnic and barbecuing facilities, free admission to Coyote Point Museum, bike safety classes.

The San Mateo County Parks Foundation raises funds for projects that improve trails, restore habitat, promote environmental education, and encourage recreational use of parks.

Next year's ride will be on the first Sunday in August. Check for information at www.supportparks.org/tdp.

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