On May 18, organizers of the Tour de Paris announced the event will be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. This past week, however, the organizers announced a confirmed date for Saturday, Sept. 26, with all appropriate guidelines for participants.
“We didn’t want to lose this event, and pushing it out later hopefully will be better for everyone,” said Lamar County Chamber of Commerce president Paul Allen, in May. “Though the event, of course, is outside, the 650 volunteers that make this event successful running rest stops and registration had to be thought of as well. We will have to wait a little longer.”
Looking forward to this year’s event of Tour de Paris Bicycle Rally, it will take on a different look than previous competitions.
“We do not want to cancel this event, so we are moving forward with safety guidelines in place,” the official press release read.
This year will be PRE- REGISTRATION ONLY, ending Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 11:59 p.m.
Pre-registration packets will be available for pick up Friday, Sept. 25, from 6 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 26, from 6 to 7 a.m.
Rider packets will be ready with your name on it with packet pick up taking place at the Pavilion adjacent to Love Civic Center, which is located at 2025 S. Collegiate.
“We encourage wearing masks and social distancing in the pickup area. Drive through pick up will also be provided north of the Pavilion for your convenience,” officials said.
There will be no official start time in order to aid social distancing. Individuals or groups may start their ride after packet pick up. All riders must be underway by 8:30 a.m.
Other changes include that of rest stops opening at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday. Supplies will be limited to bottled water, sports drinks, small bags of ice, and a small selection of fruits and snacks.
“We recommend you bring whatever you may need on the route. Rest stop volunteer activities will be limited to keeping the tables stocked with supplies. PLEASE, NO gatherings at rest stops by the riders or volunteers. Spread out!” organizers said.
Upon return to the Pavilion, a complimentary pre-packaged Get-and-Go meal will be available for riders.
All pre- and post-ride activities inside the Love Civic Center have been canceled to avoid large gatherings, which will provide individuals the opportunity to social distance and still enjoy the Tour de Paris.
To keep up with event registration details and news, CLICK HERE.
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