Staunton Star - Times - Published in the Interest of the Staunton Community for Over 143 Years

The 33rd Tour De Donut bicycle race in Staunton is all set to happen on Saturday, July 9. Race start time is 9 a.m. Registered riders can sign-in beginning at 7 a.m.

Registration is now open and must be done online. The website is presented by the Boeing Employee Bicycle Club. Registration deadline is July 8 at 1 a.m. There will be no race day registration. Registration fees are $45 for a single bike rider and $60 for tandem riders.

The Tour de Donut is a spoof on the Tour de France with the interesting addition of two doughnut stops. From the mass start, the approximate 34-mile route follows lightly traveled roads over a rolling terrain. Riders stop at two checkpoints (doughnut stops). While eating doughnuts is not mandatory, the rider is awarded a five-minute time credit for each one eaten.

There is also a shorter option called the Donut Hole course. It is approximately 12 miles and registration for this event is $25.

Riders must be 13 years old to ride without an adult. Every rider must wear a helmet and young passengers must sit in an approved seat or carrier. The start line is at the corner of East Pennsylvania and Ash streets in Staunton.

Medals will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each category. Winners will be listed by actual time and adjusted time.There will be cash prizes, four brand new bikes, attendance prizes (drawing from all participants) and a golden helmet for the participant from the farthest distance.

Race support will be by The Cyclery in Edwardsville and The Bike Surgeon from O’Fallon.