Borough President Diaz along with over 7,000 cyclists from across the region and around the world, participated in the 22nd annual event, the largest free cycling event in New York State
Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., in conjunction with The Bronx Tourism Council, the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, Clear Channel Outdoor Americas, Montefiore Health System, Bronx-Lebanon Hospital and St. Barnabas Medical Center, hosted the 22nd Annual Tour de Bronx cycling event on Sunday, October 23, 2016.
Established in 1994 by the office of the Bronx Borough President and The Bronx Tourism Council, the Tour de Bronx is a way to promote a healthier lifestyle in the borough while also emphasizing an alternative mode of transportation and a way to tour the burgeoning neighborhoods, scenic waterfronts and greenways that The Bronx has to offer.
This year, over 7,000 riders from across the region and around the world participated in the annual free cycling, choosing from two routes – a 25-mile or 40-mile route – that highlighted attractions and neighborhoods including the Grand Concourse, Mott Haven, Pelham Bay Park, City Island, Orchard Beach, and the New York Botanical Garden.
“This is one of my favorite events of the year,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “The Tour De Bronx not only emphasizes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, excellently complementing our ‘#Not62’ health initiative as far as helping improve the overall health of our borough, but also highlighting our borough’s historical sites, beautiful waterfronts and vibrant neighborhoods, showcasing the best that we have to offer to both our residents and visitors from around the world.”
“It’s exciting to see so many avid cyclists coming from all over the borough, the city, the state, the country and beyond to experience The Bronx in this unique way,” said Olga Luz Tirado, executive director, The Bronx Tourism Council. “It’s inspiring!”
The Tour de Bronx is made possible by Montefiore Health System, Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center and St. Barnabas Health System. Additional support is provided by The Coca-Cola Company, Domino’s Pizza, Lehman College, and Fordham University.
“We couldn’t be happier to be the principal sponsor of The Tour de Bronx because it represents everything Montefiore is about,” said Steven M. Safyer, M.D. president and CEO, Montefiore Health System. “This event encourages all of us to get outside and exercise on a gorgeous day and experience the beauty and culture of our unique borough. By partnering together, we are actively advancing the health and well-being of the region.”
Clear Channel Outdoor has also stepped in this year, having donated advertising space in iconic Times Square, one of the most heavily-trafficked area in the world, encouraging riders to register for the upcoming Tour de Bronx.
“We are proud to have partnered with the Bronx Tourism Office and the Bronx Borough President, using the captivating and location-based power of our media to drive awareness for the annual Tour de Bronx cycling event,” said Harry Coghlan, president and general manager, Clear Channel Outdoor Americas-New York. “The Bronx is experiencing tremendous growth and an event such as the Tour de Bronx calls attention to this burgeoning area, where many of our own employees live, work and play.”