The second annual Bulldog Bike Tour is set for Saturday, June 21 to support scholarships
for Ferris State University students.
The event, sponsored by the university’s Alumni Association, is open to single and group riders as well as families. The tour through the scenic Mecosta County includes 10-, 23-, 40-, 55-, or 100- mile routes on flat to rolling terrain, with a few challenging hills on the longer routes.
“It is great to enjoy cycling and to support students and education at the same time. It is also a great opportunities to meet others who share the same interests,” said Kelly Seitter, a professor in the College of Engineering Technology, avid cyclist and ride director for the Bulldog Bike Tour.
The tour begins at the Student Recreation Center between 8 and 11 a.m., depending on the particular route.
Early registration is $50 for participants who register by June 1. Registration includes lunch following the ride, an event T-shirt and food stops with high-energy snacks and drinks. After June 1, the registration price is $70 and does not include an event T-shirt. Participants must register by Tuesday, June 10 to be eligible for the post-ride meal.
Day-of-ride registration will also be available.
To ensure the safety of all participants, emergency medical services/medical direction, ride marshals, Bike SAG (support and gear), city and county police, and amateur radio will be in place at multiple points along the routes for assistance. Volunteers are still needed to assist with amateur radio communication.
“This is an opportunity for the community and local groups to really help students,” said Mike McKay, Ferris’ manager of employee safety and training. “It’s more than just a bike ride, it’s an event that is used to fund scholarships.”
A post-ride meal will be held at the Student Recreation Center, with Catering providing food from noon until 5:30 p.m. There will be a drawing for prizes at the meal.
An afterglow event will be held at Cranker’s Restaurant and Brewery for alumni and friends beginning at 4 p.m. Free live music and appetizers will be available.
The Ferris State University cycling jerseys will also be available for purchase at prices that range from $75 to $80.
For additional information, including route maps, safety tips and rules, accommodations and future updates, visit “Bulldog Bike Tour” on Facebook, here.
To sign up to volunteer for amateur radio at the event, email McKay at [email protected].