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Tikes and Bikes

Tulsa’s youngest riders can feel the wind in their hair and put the pedals (or lack thereof) to the metal in this year’s Saint Francis Tulsa Tough events.  The 2012 schedule of events includes four kids’ races and new for this year – a Strider Adventure Zone including Strider Balance Bikes, a kid-sized obstacle course and prizes.  Kids’ races come complete with professional commentary from race announcers and crowds that rival the professional races.

The kids’ races will take place on both Saturday, June 9, and Sunday, June 10.  The first race of each day is set for kids ages 5 and younger, who race approximately one block.  Most kids ride alone, but parents are permitted to accompany the racers.  Training wheels are permitted.  The second race of each day is reserved  for kids ages 6 to 9.    They will race approximately two blocks, and typically race without parental support.  Kids’ races are free, and all participants receive finisher ribbons.

The Saturday kids’ races will start at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Brady Street at Main.  The Sunday kids’ races will start at approximately 12:50 p.m. on Riverside Drive, prior to the start of the Townie Ride, set for 2 p.m.  The Townie Ride is for kids, adults and entire families.

Kids from 18 months to 5 years (and under 48 inches tall) can also face obstacles and fun in the Strider Adventure Zone.  This 30 feet by 80 feet closed area, presented by Spoke House Bicycles, is reserved exclusively for the little guys and girls who want to attack ramps and zig-zag courses.  Strider bikes will be provided, which are training bikes that are void of pedals.

“As a family-friendly bike store, we are happy to get the younger kids interested in the sport of cycling,” said Zach Pfaff, owner of Spoke House Bicycles.  “Children don’t even have to know how to ride a bike.  The Strider bikes, without pedals, teach kids about balance and coasting and how much fun biking can be.”

Kids participating in the Strider Adventure Zone will get plastic numbers to take home, as well as a prize.  The Strider Kids Zone will be located near the GranFondo finish tent each day. Helmets and bikes will be provided so the little ones can simply show up and ride.