JUNE 9, 2014 BY 

On Saturday, July 19, 2014 over 1000 cyclists of all ages and abilities will take to the hills to test their endurance, skills and equipment as part of the annual Tour de Steamboat (TDS).  In its 11th year, this fun non-competitive event offers a one-day ride over the beautiful Rabbit Ears, Gore, and Yellow Jacket mountain passes through Steamboat, Toponas, Yampa, Phippsburg, Oak Creek, and Stagecoach. A post ride BBQ will offer food, beverages, entertainment, and exciting drawings for a custom Eriksen bike, trips, and wine.

The TDS steering committee commits 100% of the proceeds to four community-focused organizations that reach out in powerful and effective ways in the Yampa Valley: Routt County Riders, Reaching Everyone Preventing Suicide, Partners in Routt County and Yampa Valley Sustainability Council.  Funds raised have a huge community impact as they work to save lives, build trails, mentor youth, plant trees and so much more.

Sarah Jones from YVSC says, “This is a great example of community supporting community, which is a part of all of our missions.”

New this year TDS will be offering the option of the VIP experience, including valet parking and private port-o-lets, a pre-ride breakfast, hobnob with local cycling legends, and get a last minute bike check from onsite mechanics; post ride the VIP tent has shade, massages, cold beer and other drinks, snacks, and lots of to-notch swag. Only 100 tickets available to rider and spectators for $100 each.

Replacing the “Benefit Dinner” this year, the Committee is focusing its efforts on three key fundraising segments: a new robust Online Auction, the famous Eriksen Drawing, and the Great Wine Pull, tickets for all are located at www.32auctions.com/tourdesteamboat. The Auction is open and running from June 9 to July 18 with a wide range of attractive items being adding throughout the 6 weeks.

The Eriksen Drawing is for a custom designed, hand crafted, titanium road frame completely built with Shimano components, a total MSRP is approximately $7,500.  Only 400 tickets will be sold for $50 each.

The Great Wine Pull gives a 1 in 100 chance to win a trip of choice with three nights lodging and airfare for two people to one of 4 fabulous US destinations – Sonoma CA, Washington DC, New Orleans or New York City. Every player is guaranteed bottle of wine with a retail value of $35-$120. Only 100 $100 tickets will be sold.

More information on the ride, beneficiaries, and can be found at www.tourdesteamboat.com.