2nd annual Delaware Tech Tour de Sussex is a huge success
(Photo by A. Howard)
Tour de Sussex was held on Sept. 19 welcoming around 180 cyclists of all ages rode off for a tour around Sussex County.
By Andrew Howard
Around 180 cyclists of all ages rode off for a tour around Sussex County early Saturday morning on Sept. 19 benefiting displaced workers, Kids on Campus scholarships, and local charities
Cyclist Donald Granger said he arrived extra early to prepare for the 100 miles he would bike at 8 a.m. As a child, BMX was one of his favorite things to do. One hundred miles might seem too much for the average person, but he said this is just enough for him.
“I became diabetic a few years back, so I started biking to stay healthy,” Granger said.
Like Granger, cyclist Troy M., 62, has become diabetic in his adult years and picked up cycling because of it. Troy has been riding for nine years now and at the Tour de Sussex Troy rode 25 miles. He said he enjoyed every second of the ride.
Michelle Brown, 46, actively takes spin classes at her local gym. She said it helps her prepare for the rides she participates in year round. Along with spin classes, Brown takes small rides and builds up to the ride she is preparing for.
“I encourage everyone to pick up cycling. It’s a great hobby,” Brown said.
The rides included four different lengths, 25 miles, 50 miles, 62 miles, and 100 miles. Each ride had at least one rest stop at Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton to help refresh each cyclist. The other stops for the longer rides included Irish Eyes in Lewes, Papa Grande’s in Fenwick Island, and Trap Pond State Park in Laurel.
A couple of cycling groups were in attendance at this year’s Tour de Sussex. One group in particular, the Sussex Cyclists, were the biggest in attendance as well as the biggest supporters of the tour.
Director of Workforce Development and Community Education Dr. Christopher Moody said last year only 125 cyclists showed up to ride, even more attended this year. Dr. Moody hopes to continue this event, and hopes that the attendance keeps rising.
“The tour is a great opportunity for non-residents and residents alike to see all Sussex County,” Dr. Moody said.