Mayors’ International Bike Ride marks 10th anniversary on October 24

Cyclists of all ages are invited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Mayors' International Bike Ride on Saturday, October 24, beginning at 8 a.m. at the Desert Hill Golf Course parking lot (1245 Desert Hills Drive).

Now in its 10th year, this free, family-friendly event celebrates regional partnerships and community spirit, with stops every 4 to 5 miles along the route. Public safety agencies from throughout the region will guide riders to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Thanks to the generous support of community partners and businesses, the event is free and open to everyone. Participants can register online at YumaAz.gov/bikeride, and the first 500 to register will receive a complimentary official event T-shirt. Whether you're new to cycling or a seasoned rider, the Mayors' International Bike Ride offers a fun and welcoming experience for all ages.

Mayors and elected officials representing the 4FrontED region will host riders from Yuma, Somerton, San Luis, Wellton and San Luis Río Colorado, along with Yuma County and the Fort Yuma Quechan and Cocopah tribes. Approximately 500 participants are expected to take part in this year's ride.

The ride begins in the parking lot of Desert Hills Golf Course, with the entire group stopping at Cocopah Korner, Somerton, Gadsden and San Luis before crossing the border into Mexico. Each stop will offer water, snacks and restroom facilities. The ride concludes with a finisher celebration in San Luis Río Colorado, Mexico, featuring live music, local food and medals for participating cyclists.

"We're excited to celebrate the 10th Mayors' International Bike Ride, an event that has brought people and communities together for the past decade," said Yuma Mayor Douglas Nicholls. "Whether this is your first ride or you've been with us from the beginning, we invite you to join us for this special milestone as we continue building friendships and partnerships throughout our region."

Online registration is strongly encouraged to help speed up check-in and provide a smooth event experience. Arrive early to enjoy live entertainment by local band Checker'd Past from 6:45 to 8 a.m. On-site check-in and registration begin at 7 a.m. at the east end of the parking lot. All riders must complete a waiver to participate. Riders younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Riders planning to cross the border should bring proper documentation to enter Mexico and return to the United States, along with:

• A bicycle and helmet
• Sunscreen and comfortable athletic attire
• A water bottle
• Light belongings only (limit large bags and backpacks)

Riders will return to the United States through the San Luis Port of Entry. An express lane may be available for a limited time, circumstances permitting. Event staff will provide departure instructions for riders using the express lane.

At the conclusion of the event, Yuma County Area Transit will provide limited transportation from San Luis, Arizona, to Desert Hills Golf Course. Riders who prefer a more flexible schedule are encouraged to arrange their own transportation home or back to their vehicle after the event.

To learn more, visit YumaAz.gov/bikeride. For additional information, contact Kathy Moon at 928-373-5020 or [email protected].