Local cyclists invited to Tour de Toad

Organizers of the second annual Tour de Toad want to get all local toads out of the water and onto their bikes.

According to event coordinator Wes Pruitt, the event, which is sponsored by the Faulkner County Literacy Council, is scheduled for 10 a.m. May 2, in conjunction with Toad Suck Daze.

As Conway is on its way to becoming a more bike-friendly area with a city-appointed task force leading the way, Pruitt said he expects a good turnout.

"We get a lot of race day registrants with tours and if it's a nice day, we could have 250," Pruitt said. "It's kind of a toss up on the number of people, but I'll be praying for nice weather."

This year's Tour de Toad will feature lengths of 33, 46 and 68 miles with a new Family Fun Ride offered for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

Pruitt, who is vice president of the literacy council board, said so many options are being offered this year because the group just wants residents to get outside.

"Getting people out there on their bikes and giving them some education is important," Pruitt said. "We are wanting to get people out there to experience it. People are so scared to ride on the roads by themselves, but this way it's going to be a lot safer with a large group of people and police present."

Although promoting a bicycle-friendly community is one of the missions of the Tour de Toad, it is not the main purpose.

"I would encourage residents to participate because for one thing, it supports the literacy council and all money goes to supporting its programs for adult literacy in Faulkner County," Pruitt said.

According to a press release from the literacy council, the three mileage events will start at 10 a.m. at the Conway High School field house and the family ride will start at the same location at 10:30 a.m. Entry fees are $35 for each rider. Fees for the family ride are $35 for individuals 16 years and older or $50 for a family.

Registration forms are available at the literacy council offices at 615 East Robins St. and at The Ride, 2100 Meadowlake Road. For more information, call the literacy council at 329-7323.

(Staff writer Jessica Bauer can be reached by e-mail at jessica.bauer@thecabin.net or by phone at 505-1236. To comment on this and other stories in the Log Cabin, log on to www.thecabin.net. Send us your news at www.thecabin.net/submit)