The 3-day, 3-town, eco-friendly cycling event will take off from the university’s greenest building, the Williamson College of Business, on the last leg of the race Sunday July 10, 2011.
Back for its third straight year, Tour of the Valley, Ohio’s largest three-day bicycling stage race, is set for July 8-10, 2011. Originating in Mahoning and Columbiana counties, TOTV launched the first-ever carbon neutral, eco-friendly event in the Midwest two years ago. Having doubled in size, last year’s event doubled rider and spectator attendance, attracting thousands to the area. TOTV has not only boosted tourism during the race in July, but has also helped the community to reduce its Carbon Footprint with the purchase of Carbon Credits. Youngstown State University supports this green initiative to better our community and is announcing it is a proud sponsor of the event.
Youngstown State University will be the third and final leg of the TOTV on July 10, 2011, with pro and elite cyclists racing through a downtown Criterium race, followed by the second annual community ride, open to all skill levels. The start and finish will commence at the new Williamson College of Business, off of Hazel Street.
“We’re very excited about having a portion of the Tour touching on the Youngstown State campus, next to our newest and greenest building, Williamson Hall. Bicycling—besides being a great sport for all ages and all levels of proficiency—also represents a clean, green way to travel. As we all look towards energy- efficient transportation, bicycling tops the charts. Tour of the Valley is helping to build the culture of bicycling and YSU is proud to be a partner in this great event,” Mark Van Tilburg, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications for Youngstown State University.
This annual event presents an impactful community opportunity that unites individuals, families and civic leaders in making greener choices.
“Thanks to the success of the event through sponsors, volunteers and cyclists Tour of the Valley was able to calculate and purchase/donate 34.029 tons of CO2 to offset the emissions produced to promote, travel and attend the event. This donation reduces greenhouse gas emissions in the fight against climate change by supporting climate-friendly projects globally, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and reforestation,” race director Erin Quinlan said.
Three days, three towns and 21 races (up from 17 last year) will prove to be July’s test of America’s Best. Pro, Elite and Amateur Skill Level Cyclists will take part in the Time Trial, Friday, July 8, in Berlin Center at Mastropietro Winery; the Road Race, Saturday, July 9, in Downtown Columbiana; and the Criterium and Community Ride on Sunday, July 10, in Downtown Youngstown.
“Be sure to mark the calendar for the third annual Tour of the Valley, Whether you’re a spectator, sponsor, volunteer or a competitive cyclist, you’re sure to enjoy this eco-friendly event in the tri-state,” race director Daniel Quinlan said.
Let’s ride our way to a better tomorrow. And showcase the Ohio Valley’s diversity, heritage and resilience. Tour of the Valley is looking for volunteers and sponsors. To learn more, support, volunteer or register, please visit TourOfTheValley.com.
For more information, contact Erin Quinlan Director Tour of the Valley and President Carbon Racing, at 330-261-0320 at quinlanerin@gmail.com. Visit Tour of the Valley Online at www.TourOfTheValley.com.
