Tour de Fair Haven 2013 Cycles into Town

If you get to the Tour de Fair Haven 2013 early enough on Sunday morning, you just may be able to catch Mayor Ben Lucarelli all geared up and riding.

But that could be as early as 7 a.m., the mayor, an avid cyclist, said. To give those arriving early a wake-up boost, Booskerdoo will be giving out free coffee for the first two hours.

The annual event, title co-sponsored by Saker ShopRites, Inc. and ForeFront, has drawn more cyclists every year, Lucarelli said. The route is considered one of the nicest around for bike races.

This year, more than 400 of cyclists, some of which are considered the best in the country, will compete for $10,000 in prize money in the tour, which is a USA Cycling Foundation-sanctioned event.

"What started as a grassroots effort to bring competitive cycling to Fair Haven five years ago has grown into a community pride affair that is embraced by all, from local cycling enthusiasts, businesses and residents," Tour de Fair Haven Event Director Michel Berger, also president of ForeFront, said.  


There will be a total of six races, including a women-only race, that will follow a 3.1-mile enclosed course which begins and ends at the Fair Haven Fire Department on River Road. The first race begins at 7 a.m. A kids’ race will take place at noon, followed by the Pro Men’s Race, the main event of the day. Spectators will receive free cow bells to ring and cheer on the racers. Registration deadline is Sept. 14.

“The Tour de Fair Haven embodies the meaning of community, from first-time local racers to our great volunteers and cheering spectators," Foundation of Fair Haven President and Councilwoman Susan Sorensen said. "We always have room for helping hands and smiling faces."

For registration, directions and more information, check the website at  www.tourdefairhaven.com.

Event proceeds will benefit the Foundation of Fair Haven, kids' bike safety programs and future Fair Haven Days.