Cycle 66 Pedals Through on Sunday

Route 66 will feature cyclists participating in Cycle 66 between Edmond and Wellston, with planned rest stops in Luther on Sunday morning. This marks the first summer event for Cycle 66, which was previously held in November.

The 33- and 66-mile rides include rest stops in Luther on Main Street, where cyclists will pass the new Visit Luther sign and the Threatt Filling Station. The longer rides also incorporate some sideroads to enhance the race courses, offering scenic and challenging routes. Sunday morning will be a great time to share the road and stay extra alert.

Cycle 66 is primarily an Edmond event, featuring a festive atmosphere at both the start and finish lines downtown. Besides the non-timed distance tours, Cycle 66 also features fast-paced criterium races called the Crit @ Cycle 66, taking place downtown from 9 am to 3 pm.

Organizers mention that July is mid-season for road biking, and they anticipate a large turnout. After being canceled last year due to weather, the previous Cycle 66 ride drew 700 riders from 12 states.

“Edmond has a USA Cycling-sanctioned Oklahoma Skills-Based Criterium this year,” said Tony Steward, Cycle 66 Race Director. “Whether you’re a participating cyclist or you’ve never ridden a bike, the Crit @ Cycle 66 provides an exciting chance to see some of this region’s best cyclists compete. It’s fast, furious competition, and we invite the public to come cheer on the cyclists while enjoying brunch or a beer in our beautiful downtown.”

With numerous sponsors, including Walmart and Amazon, Cycle 66 shares its registration fees with the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, YMCA, and Bike Club OKC. Organizers say the YMCA will use Cycle 66 funds to implement a bike checkout program, allowing people to borrow bikes to ride trails connecting to Arcadia Lake at the new YMCA on 15th Street, just east of I-35, which is under construction and scheduled to open next year.

Last-minute registration is available for this Sunday’s event. The $45 fee includes a T-shirt and other goodies. The one-mile kids’ ride and kids’ crit are free for children ages 10 and under.

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