Photo courtesy of the City of Grandview Heights
On Friday, the streets of Grandview will transform from a suburban neighborhood into a hilly, fast-paced and fiercely competitive race course.
Professionals and cycling enthusiasts alike travel from across the nation, and sometimes even across the globe, to compete in the Tour de Grandview. It is one of the three events that make up Ohio’s weekend-long cycling celebration, along with Madeira’s Centennial Criterium and Cincinnati’s Hyde Park Blast.
The event has been a Midwest favorite for years. It is hosted by the Grandview Community Association (GCA) with help from the City of Grandview. Thanks to a large number of volunteers and sponsors for the Tour de Grandview, the GCA has been able to donate over $20,000 to nonprofit groups.
Over the years, the Tour de Grandview has welcomed Olympic and national-level competitors. However, it’s not just for the pros; there are categories allowing more casual cyclists to compete, and there is even a “sprint” event for kids.
The course’s start/finish is on First Avenue, but the loop will have competitors racing down Grandview Avenue as well, a great spot for spectators because of its street party tradition. There will be entertainment for all ages, craft beer, food, live music from The Conspiracy Band, a bike expo area and, of course, the opportunity to experience the excitement of the race as the cyclists pass by.
Races will be held throughout the evening from 6:30-10:30. More information can be found at http://tourdegrandview.com.
