Cycling Festival among biggest in Midwest

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Hundreds of cyclists from across the country are taking part in the second annual Parkview Cycling Festival at noon on Saturday.

The route is about about eight-tenths of a mile and takes riders through the downtown area. Since it's so short, bikers will reach speeds of more than 35 miles per hour.

Last July, 200 racers and more than 4000 spectators helped make the inaugural Parkview Cycling Festival one of the largest bicycle races in the Midwest. Eight states were represented in the races, including Alabama, Virginia, and New York.
 
"Last year's event was a tremendous success and a wonderful addition to the summer activities in downtown Fort Wayne," said Sue Ehinger, Chief Operating Officer of Parkview Hospital . "Parkview is committed to improving the health of the communities we serve. The annual cycling festival is a terrific way to highlight the importance of exercise and being active."

This summer, the Parkview Cycling Festival will have categories for kids and citizen racers. "The fast course and crowded field can be very intimidating for a less experienced cyclist. By having a citizens category, recreational riders will have the chance to compete on a closed course in front of their family and friends," said race director John Martin.

The Parkview Cycling Festival also returns with 7 other races sanctioned by USA Cycling throughout the day. The last race will end in dramatic fashion, under the lights, with the professionals blazing the course.

"This type of regional event is a great way to expand the use of Parkview Field and the Downtown Improvement District is excited to welcome the cycling festival back to downtown," said Rich Davis, President of the Downtown Improvement District . " This year, with the addition of the new bike lanes downtown, it will be even easier for participants and cycling enthusiasts to explore downtown Fort Wayne before and after the event making it a fun day for the whole family."

The event, organized by Fort Wayne's Men of Steel Racing Club , is free to the public. In addition to the all-day racing, the cycling event also includes music and health and fitness vendors.

To learn more about the event, click here .